Experience the wonders of Lola ya Bonobo, the heavenly sanctuary for orphaned bonobos in the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Founded in 1994 by Claudine André, Lola ya Bonobo is a haven for these remarkable primates, providing them with a new lease on life.

Nestled just south of Kimwenza, at the picturesque Petites Chutes de la Lukaya near Kinshasa, Lola ya Bonobo is a sanctuary like no other. The name itself, meaning ‘heaven for bonobos’ in Lingala, reflects the dedication and care that goes into creating a nurturing environment for these gentle creatures.

With over 60 bonobos residing in the sanctuary’s lush 30-hectare expanse of primary forest, Lola ya Bonobo is a vital member of the Pan African Sanctuary Alliance. Many of these bonobos arrive as young infants, victims of the bushmeat trade that plagues the Congo region. Saved from a tragic fate, they find solace and love from their substitute human mothers before transitioning into thriving social groups. 

At Lola ya Bonobo, the bonobos enjoy a life that closely mirrors their natural habitat. They can freely explore the forest, foraging for edible plants and fruits, competing for mates, and learning to navigate potential dangers. Remarkably, these captive bonobos exhibit the full range of behaviors observed in their wild counterparts and even display unique behaviors like tool use. and learning to navigate potential dangers. Remarkably, these captive bonobos exhibit the full range of behaviors observed in their wild counterparts and even display unique behaviors like tool use. and learning to navigate potential dangers.Remarkably, these captive bonobos exhibit the full range of behaviors observed in their wild counterparts and even display unique behaviors like tool use.