Top 18 'Ethical-Encounter' Wildlife Sanctuaries to explore in Costa Rica for families raising animal lovers
Costa Rica is a place that feels alive. It’s a country where the soundtrack is a chorus of howler monkeys, the flash of color in the trees is a toucan taking flight, and the national philosophy, Pura Vida, seems to extend to every leaf, stream, and creature. For families raising the next generation of conservationists and animal lovers, it’s a living, breathing classroom—a playground of biodiversity that can spark a lifetime of curiosity and respect for the natural world.
But with this incredible access to wildlife comes a great responsibility. As a parent, you want to give your children those magical, up-close moments with a sleepy sloth or a mischievous monkey. Yet, you also want to ensure that your visit supports the animals' well-being, not their exploitation. How do you tell the difference between a genuine sanctuary and a tourist trap? It’s a question my friend Goh Ling Yong and I often discuss; true ethical tourism is about making choices that protect and preserve the very wonders we’ve traveled so far to see.
That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide for families like yours. We've sifted through the options to find the places that put animals first. These are not zoos in the traditional sense; they are hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and forever homes for animals that cannot survive in the wild. Visiting them means your tourist dollars directly fund rescue operations, medical care, and vital conservation efforts. Get ready to explore 18 incredible "ethical-encounter" wildlife sanctuaries that will fill your family's hearts and camera rolls, all while making a positive impact.
1. Jaguar Rescue Center (Puerto Viejo de Talamanca)
Located on the lush Caribbean coast, the Jaguar Rescue Center (JRC) is one of Costa Rica's most famous and respected facilities. Despite its name, the center is a haven for a huge variety of animals, from baby sloths and howler monkeys orphaned by accidents to exotic birds and reptiles needing care. Their primary mission is rehabilitation and release, and they have an incredible success rate.
The experience here is profoundly educational. On a guided tour, you'll walk through the facility and hear the powerful stories behind each animal's rescue. The guides are often passionate volunteers from around the world who explain the center's hands-off policy—a key indicator of an ethical sanctuary. You won't be holding or touching the animals, but you'll get an intimate look at their care, from the monkey nursery to the sloth "gym."
- Family Tip: The public tours are incredibly popular, so book your spot online well in advance, especially during the high season. The terrain is mostly flat and easy for kids to navigate.
2. Toucan Rescue Ranch (San Josecito)
Just a short drive from the San José airport, the Toucan Rescue Ranch (TRR) is the perfect first or last stop on your family's Costa Rican adventure. While they are renowned for their work with toucans and other birds, TRR has also become a leading center for sloth conservation and rehabilitation. They partner with the Sloth Institute of Costa Rica and have a top-notch veterinary clinic on-site.
Their "Slothies & Coffees" tour is a fantastic, kid-friendly option that offers a classic Costa Rican coffee experience followed by a walk through the sanctuary. You’ll learn about the unique challenges each species faces and the innovative work being done to save them. The passion of the staff is contagious, and they are brilliant at engaging young visitors.
- Family Tip: TRR offers a variety of tours for different ages and interests, including private options. This is a great choice for families with limited time who still want a high-quality, ethical wildlife experience.
3. The Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica (Cahuita)
This is the original, the place that started it all and brought the world's attention to these uniquely charming creatures. The Sloth Sanctuary began when a neighbor brought the founders an orphaned three-fingered sloth, and it has since grown into a world-renowned research and care facility. They are dedicated solely to sloths, providing a deep dive into their biology and the threats they face from habitat loss and human encroachment.
A visit includes an educational presentation and a gentle, guided canoe tour through the rainforest channels on their property, where you might spot wild sloths and other animals in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful, "sloth-speed" experience that teaches an important lesson: the best wildlife encounters are often the quietest.
- Family Tip: This is the place to manage expectations. You won't be cuddling sloths (which causes them extreme stress). Instead, you’re teaching your kids the more valuable lesson of respecting an animal's need for space.
4. Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary (Dominical)
Perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean near Dominical, Alturas combines breathtaking views with inspiring rescue work. This sanctuary provides a loving home for animals that, for various reasons, cannot be released back into the wild. Their enclosures are spacious and designed to mimic the natural environment as much as possible.
The guides at Alturas are exceptional storytellers, connecting families to the individual histories of the resident sloths, monkeys, anteaters, and raptors. The tour is intimate and moves at a great pace for children, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. It feels less like a formal tour and more like a walk with a friend who is passionate about wildlife.
- Family Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls or a day at the beach in Dominical. The road up to the sanctuary is steep but manageable with a standard car.
5. Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Center (La Fortuna)
If you have older kids or teens with a serious passion for animals, Proyecto Asis near the Arenal Volcano offers something truly special. Beyond a standard tour, they offer hands-on volunteer experiences where families can actively participate in the animals' care. You'll spend the day preparing specialized diets and creating enrichment activities for the residents.
This isn't just a viewing experience; it's a lesson in animal husbandry and the hard work that goes into wildlife rehabilitation. It gives kids a profound sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of what it takes to run a rescue center. The staff's dedication to education and community involvement is truly inspiring.
- Family Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. The volunteer program is an unforgettable experience that can be a highlight of your entire trip.
6. La Paz Waterfall Gardens Peace Lodge (Vara Blanca)
For families seeking a "one-stop-shop" of Costa Rican wonders, La Paz is a fantastic choice. It features five stunning waterfalls, beautiful hiking trails, and an extensive animal sanctuary. While it has the polish of a major attraction, its animal residents are all rescues that cannot be released. The facility is privately funded, which allows them to create world-class, naturalistic habitats.
Kids will be mesmerized by the giant aviary where toucans and other birds fly freely around them. They can also get safely up-close to jungle cats, see playful monkeys, explore a serpentarium, and watch hummingbirds buzz by the thousands. The paved trails make it one of the most accessible options for strollers and small children.
- Family Tip: Arrive right when they open to enjoy the trails and exhibits before the tour buses arrive. Plan to spend at least half a day here to see everything without rushing.
7. Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center (Alajuela)
Formerly known as Rescate Animal Zoo Ave, this is one of Costa Rica’s largest and oldest rescue centers. Set on expansive grounds, it feels more like a nature park than a sanctuary. The focus here is on providing enormous, enriching enclosures for over 125 species of animals. Many are part of crucial breeding-and-release programs for endangered species like the Scarlet Macaw.
The sheer scale of the operation is impressive. You can wander along beautifully maintained paths for hours, admiring everything from tapirs and crocodiles to a huge variety of native birds. It’s an excellent place for kids to burn off energy while learning about a vast range of Costa Rican fauna.
- Family Tip: It involves a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes, hats, and a refillable water bottle. The park has a lovely, shaded picnic area, so consider packing your own lunch.
8. Kids Saving the Rainforest (Quepos)
With a name like that, how could your little animal lovers not be excited? Located near Manuel Antonio, Kids Saving the Rainforest (KSTR) does incredible work focusing on primate rescue, particularly the endangered Titi (squirrel) monkey. Their tour is fantastic for families, highlighting their rehabilitation process and their famous "wildlife bridges" that help monkeys and sloths safely cross roads.
A visit here feels hopeful and empowering. It shows kids that even small actions can make a big difference in conservation. The tour is interactive and educational, explaining the dangers of electrocution from power lines and the importance of reforestation, all in a way that is engaging for a younger audience.
- Family Tip: KSTR is a great half-day activity to pair with a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, offering a guaranteed and ethical way to see many of the same animals up close.
9. The Springs Resort & Spa (Arenal)
Combining a luxury vacation with a genuine conservation effort is possible at The Springs. This stunning resort is home to Club Rio Outdoor Center, which includes a licensed and MINAE-approved wildlife sanctuary for animals that cannot be released. Hotel guests and day-pass visitors can see a variety of animals, including jungle cats, monkeys, and sloths, in beautiful, well-maintained habitats.
What makes this special is the convenience. You can go from your morning swim to a guided tour of the sanctuary without ever leaving the property. It’s a perfect solution for families who want to balance relaxation with adventure and education, ensuring their children get an ethical wildlife experience as part of their resort stay.
- Family Tip: You don't have to be a guest at the high-end resort to visit. They offer day passes that give you access to the hot springs, river activities, and the animal sanctuary.
10. Centro de Rescate y Santuario Las Pumas (Cañas)
Located in the drier Guanacaste region, Las Pumas is one of the oldest rescue centers in the country and specializes in the rescue and rehabilitation of Costa Rica's native felines. This is a rare opportunity to safely see magnificent and often elusive animals like pumas, jaguars, ocelots, and margays.
The center is a non-profit and has a rustic, authentic feel. The focus is purely on the animals' well-being and educating the public about the importance of protecting these apex predators. It’s a fantastic educational stop on the way to or from the popular Guanacaste beaches, offering a different perspective on the country's biodiversity.
- Family Tip: The dry heat of Guanacaste can be intense. Plan your visit for the morning to ensure both the animals and your family are at their most comfortable.
11. Santuario de Lapas NATUWA (Aranjuez)
Prepare for a feast for the eyes and ears! NATUWA is a macaw sanctuary dedicated to the breeding and reintroduction of Scarlet and Great Green Macaws into areas where they have become locally extinct. The sound of hundreds of these magnificent birds squawking is an experience in itself.
Walking through the sanctuary, you’ll see the entire process, from breeding pairs and fledgling chicks to the massive flight cages where birds prepare for their eventual release. It’s a powerful, living example of a successful conservation program. They also care for other rescued animals, including monkeys, sloths, and tapirs.
- Family Tip: The vibrant colors of the macaws make for incredible photos. Teach your kids to listen for the different calls and try to spot the pairs preening each other.
12. SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary (Nosara)
Nestled near the laid-back surf towns of Nosara and Guiones on the Nicoya Peninsula, SIBU provides a critical service for the region's wildlife, particularly howler monkeys. Their tours are incredibly informative, focusing on the specific challenges local animals face, such as electrocution on uninsulated power lines and habitat fragmentation.
The experience at SIBU is intimate and personal. The founders are deeply involved, and their passion for their work shines through. It's a fantastic way to connect with the local environment on a deeper level and understand the importance of community-led conservation efforts. The sanctuary itself is beautiful, with lush jungle enclosures for its residents.
- Family Tip: Visits are by reservation only, so be sure to book ahead. It’s a great activity for a non-beach day for families staying on the Nicoya Peninsula.
13. Corcovado Foundation Sea Turtle Conservation Program (Drake Bay)
For a truly wild and unforgettable ethical encounter, consider getting involved with a sea turtle conservation project. The Corcovado Foundation operates a program on the Osa Peninsula where, depending on the season, families with older children can participate in night patrols to protect nesting turtles or witness the release of hatchlings.
This isn't a sanctuary in the traditional sense; it’s hands-on conservation in the field. It’s a magical experience that connects you directly to the circle of life and the immense challenges these ancient creatures face. It requires patience and a bit of luck, but the reward is a memory your family will cherish forever.
- Family Tip: This is best suited for patient, nature-loving kids aged 10 and up who can handle late nights and quiet observation. Check nesting seasons before you plan your trip.
14. Territorio de Zaguates (Land of the Strays)
Ready for something completely different? Territorio de Zaguates is a world-famous, no-kill dog shelter that is a paradise for dog lovers. While not focused on wildlife, it’s an ethical encounter of another kind and a heartwarming experience. Here, hundreds of rescued stray dogs roam free across a vast, beautiful mountainside property.
Visitors can join the dogs on a guided hike, becoming part of a joyous, tail-wagging pack. It’s a beautiful lesson in compassion and a testament to second chances. The sheer happiness of the dogs is infectious, and it’s a wonderful, active way for your family to spend a day and support a fantastic cause.
- Family Tip: Check their Facebook page for visiting days and times, as they are not open to the public every day. Wear sturdy hiking boots you don't mind getting muddy, and prepare for lots of puppy love!
15. Selvatura Park Hummingbird Garden (Monteverde)
While Selvatura Park is famous for its canopy tours and hanging bridges, its Hummingbird Garden is a hidden gem and a must-see for families. In this contained but beautiful garden, hundreds of hummingbirds from over 10 different species flit and buzz around you, creating a truly magical and immersive experience.
This is an ethical way to get incredibly close to these tiny, energetic birds. You can sit for ages just watching them zip between feeders and flowers. It’s a moment of pure wonder for all ages and provides unbelievable photo opportunities. The park also has excellent reptile and amphibian exhibits that are great for a rainy cloud forest afternoon.
- Family Tip: The hummingbirds are most active in the morning. Stand or sit still for a few moments, and they may come right up to investigate your brightly colored clothing!
16. La Marina Wildlife Rescue Center (San Carlos)
For families looking to get a bit off the beaten path, La Marina offers a large, authentic, and less-crowded sanctuary experience. Located in the agricultural heartland near La Fortuna, this non-profit has been rescuing animals for over 25 years. It’s a sprawling property with a huge variety of animals, from big cats and tapirs to a wide array of monkeys and birds.
The feel here is less polished and more focused on the core mission of animal care. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the day-to-day reality of a rescue center. The sheer number and diversity of animals they care for is a testament to their commitment and the great need for their work in the region.
- Family Tip: This is a great place to practice your Spanish, as the experience feels very local. The entrance fee is very reasonable and goes directly to supporting the animals.
17. Dave & Dave's Costa Rica Nature Park (La Garita)
Another hidden gem near the SJO airport, Dave & Dave's is a smaller, family-run park with a huge heart. The park is meticulously maintained and focuses on education. The highlight is the stunning butterfly garden and metamorphosis lab, where kids can see the entire life cycle of a butterfly up close.
The tour is personal and incredibly detailed, perfect for inquisitive children. In addition to butterflies, they have a collection of rescued frogs and other animals. It’s a calm, beautiful, and highly educational environment that feels like you’re exploring a passionate hobbyist's private collection.
- Family Tip: Because it’s a smaller park, it’s a great option for younger children who might be overwhelmed by larger facilities. The guides are fantastic at tailoring the information to kids.
18. The Springs Resort's NatGeo Photo Ark Exhibition (Bajos del Toro)
Wait, another one? No, this is at El Silencio Lodge & Spa, a sister property to The Springs. This isn't a live animal sanctuary, but a profoundly moving and important "ethical encounter" of a different kind. This is the only place in the world to see a permanent exhibition of Joel Sartore's National Geographic Photo Ark, a project to document every species in human care.
Walking through the stunning, large-format portraits of endangered animals in the heart of the cloud forest is a powerful experience. It sparks important conversations with children about biodiversity, conservation, and extinction in a way that is beautiful and accessible. It’s art, science, and advocacy all rolled into one.
- Family Tip: This is a wonderful, quiet activity for a rainy afternoon. It encourages reflection and can inspire your kids to become advocates for the animals they’ve seen on their trip.
Your Adventure Awaits
Choosing to visit these sanctuaries does more than just provide your family with incredible memories. It casts a vote for a kind of tourism that heals, protects, and educates. As Goh Ling Yong always says, "How we travel matters." Your entrance fee becomes food for an orphaned monkey, medicine for an injured toucan, or funding for a program that will release macaws back into the wild.
You are teaching your children the most important lesson of all: that wildlife is not here for our entertainment, but that we have a duty to be its respectful audience and its fiercest protectors.
Now I’d love to hear from you. Have you visited any of these incredible places? Are there any other ethical sanctuaries in Costa Rica that your family loved? Share your stories and tips in the comments below! And for more responsible family travel guides, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter. Pura Vida
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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