Best Wildlife Sanctuaries to Visit in Costa Rica

Imagine standing just a few feet away from a rescued sloth, watching a scarlet macaw spread its vibrant wings, or seeing a jaguar that has been given a second chance at life. In Costa Rica, wildlife sanctuaries offer an up-close and ethical way to experience the country’s incredible biodiversity while supporting conservation efforts. If you're an animal lover, visiting one of these sanctuaries is a must.

What is a Wildlife Sanctuary?

A wildlife sanctuary is a protected area where injured, orphaned, or rescued animals are rehabilitated, often to release them back into the wild. Unlike zoos, which keep animals for display, sanctuaries prioritize the well-being of the animals and work toward their eventual freedom whenever possible. These sanctuaries also play a key role in conservation by educating visitors and fighting against illegal wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction.

Costa Rica is home to several reputable wildlife sanctuaries that rescue everything from sloths and monkeys to big cats and sea turtles. Here are some of the best ones to visit:

Jaguar Rescue Center (Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast)

Why Visit? The Jaguar Rescue Center is renowned for its dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife that vehicles, power lines, or the illegal pet trade have injured. It serves as a temporary refuge for many animals before they are released back into the wild.

What You'll See: Visitors can observe sloths, monkeys, ocelots, toucans, and a variety of other rescued species up close. The center also offers guided tours where guests can learn about each animal’s story and rehabilitation process.

Best For: Animal lovers who want an educational and interactive tour to understand conservation efforts firsthand.

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary (Dominical, South Pacific)

Why Visit? Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is committed to taking in injured and abandoned animals, providing medical care, and preparing them for release whenever possible. The sanctuary also houses animals that cannot survive in the wild due to permanent injuries or domestication.

What You'll See: Expect to see a diverse range of wildlife, including howler monkeys, parrots, sloths, and even exotic cats. The sanctuary’s setting in the lush hills above Dominical also offers spectacular ocean views, making for a scenic visit.

Best For: Visitors looking for a sanctuary experience combined with beautiful coastal scenery.

For more information, check out our blog article: Discover Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary: Understanding the world of wildlife rehabilitation.

Kids Saving the Rainforest (Manuel Antonio)

Why Visit? Kids Saving the Rainforest is a non-profit organization that not only rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife but also works to protect their natural habitats through reforestation projects and community education. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in preserving Costa Rica’s rainforest ecosystems.

What You'll See: Visitors can meet spider monkeys, kinkajous, sloths, and other animals that have been rescued. The sanctuary also provides insight into the impact of deforestation and how people can help protect wildlife.

Best For: Families and travelers who want to engage in conservation efforts and support a hands-on project.

Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center (Near San José)

Why Visit? One of Costa Rica’s oldest and most respected rescue centers, Rescate Wildlife, provides a safe haven for over 800 animals. Many of these animals are prepared for reintroduction into the wild through specialized rehabilitation programs.

What You'll See: The sanctuary is home to jaguars, macaws, tapirs, coatis, and many other species. The center’s extensive rehabilitation program offers visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Costa Rica’s wildlife.

Best For: Travelers with a short layover in San José who still want to experience Costa Rica’s wildlife up close.

The Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica (Cahuita, Caribbean Coast)

Why Visit? If sloths are your favorite animal, this sanctuary is a dream come true. Specializing in rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned sloths, this sanctuary provides crucial care to these slow-moving creatures, many of whom have been harmed by deforestation and human interactions.

What You'll See: Visitors can observe both two-toed and three-toed sloths and learn about their unique biology, behavior, and rehabilitation process. Guided tours give guests an opportunity to understand the threats facing sloths in the wild.

Best For: Sloth enthusiasts looking for an educational and heartwarming experience.

Why Does Visiting Wildlife Sanctuaries Matter?

By visiting these sanctuaries, you’re not just getting an unforgettable experience, you’re actively supporting the rescue and rehabilitation of Costa Rica’s wildlife. Many of these centers rely on visitor donations and entrance fees to continue their work. These sanctuaries also serve as critical education centers, teaching the public about conservation, the impact of deforestation, and the dangers of the illegal pet trade. By choosing to visit a responsible sanctuary, you are directly helping to protect Costa Rica’s unique and fragile ecosystems.

Tips for an Ethical Visit:

• Do Your Research: Choose sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare and do not allow direct contact with animals. Ethical sanctuaries focus on rehabilitation, not entertainment.

• Respect the Animals’ Space: Avoid touching or feeding the animals. Follow the guides’ instructions and observe from a respectful distance.

• Avoid Selfies with Wildlife: Holding or posing with animals can cause them stress and often supports exploitative practices.

• Consider Donating or Volunteering: Many sanctuaries depend on contributions to fund rescue missions, medical care, and habitat conservation projects.

• Support Local Conservation Efforts: Spread awareness, choose eco-friendly accommodations, and practice responsible tourism to help protect Costa Rica’s wildlife beyond your visit.

Conclusion

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, and its wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in protecting that biodiversity. These organizations not only rescue and rehabilitate animals but also educate visitors on the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism.

By visiting a wildlife sanctuary, you are contributing to the protection of endangered species, supporting vital rescue efforts, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the incredible animals that call Costa Rica home. Whether you’re exploring the rainforests of Manuel Antonio or the beaches of the Caribbean coast, adding a visit to a sanctuary to your itinerary will leave you with unforgettable memories and the satisfaction of knowing you made a difference.

Ready to experience Costa Rica’s wildlife responsibly? Check out our eco-friendly tours and travel guides to plan your perfect adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where is the best place in Costa Rica to see wildlife?

• Manuel Antonio National Park.

• Tortuguero National Park.

• Dominical and Uvita.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest.

• Los Quetzales National Park.

• Tarcoles Bridge.

• Arenal Volcano.

• Veragua Rainforest.

Where can you see the most sloths in Costa Rica?

How to spot a sloth in Costa Rica?

How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in Costa Rica?

Which national parks to visit in Costa Rica? 

Which is the famous wildlife sanctuary? 

When should I go to Costa Rica for wildlife?

What is the name of one animal sanctuary found in Costa Rica?