Tacugama to Reopen November 1 After Months of Closure Over Land Encroachment Threats
Freetown – After months of uncertainty and concern, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary has announced it will reopen to visitors on November 1, 2025, marking a hopeful new chapter for one of Sierra Leone’s most cherished conservation sites.
The sanctuary, which also hosts ecolodges and nature hikes, was forced to close earlier this year due to threats from illegal land encroachment, bush burning, and other human activities that endangered both the sanctuary and the surrounding Western Area Peninsula National Park.
In a statement, Tacugama said the closure was “an act of protection” — a necessary stand against illegal activities that jeopardized wildlife and the forest ecosystem. The management confirmed that following weeks of advocacy and dialogue, they have now received official assurances from the Government of Sierra Leone to halt these activities and safeguard the park.
Tacugama also warned that while it is reopening with hope and determination, it remains ready to take strong action, including another closure, if security concerns resurface.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back,” the sanctuary said, urging all partners in the tourism sector to stand united in protecting Sierra Leone’s natural heritage.
