Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover diverse wildlife like sloths and jaguars at Natuwa, a sanctuary dedicated to animal rescue and rehabilitation. Experience nature's wonders wi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife like sloths and jaguars at Natuwa, a sanctuary dedicated to animal rescue and rehabilitation. Experience nature's wonders with expert guides.
"A must-visit for animal lovers, offering incredible encounters and a deep dive into conservation efforts."
🎯 Hire a Guide
Guides are essential for spotting wildlife and understanding their behavior. :man_detective:
💰 It's Pricey, But Worth It
Admission can be expensive, but the experience and animal welfare efforts justify the cost. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sloth Spotting
Canopy and trees
Encounter numerous sloths in their natural habitat, a truly magical and patient observation experience.
Jaguar Encounters
Sanctuary enclosures
Witness majestic jaguars up close, a thrilling opportunity to see these powerful big cats.
Tapir Observation
Ground level habitats
Observe the gentle tapirs, often found sleeping or foraging, offering a peaceful wildlife moment.
Veterinary Insights
Animal care facilities
Learn about animal rehabilitation and care through observation or volunteer programs, a fascinating educational aspect.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour
Consider Volunteering
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hire a Guide
Guides are essential for spotting wildlife and understanding their behavior. :man_detective:
💰 It's Pricey, But Worth It
Admission can be expensive, but the experience and animal welfare efforts justify the cost. :moneybag:
🗣️ Language Friendly
Guides are patient with limited Spanish and often speak excellent English. :speech_balloon:
🛏️ On-site Stays
Living onsite enhances the experience, allowing for after-hours patient visits. :bed:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hire a Guide
Guides are essential for spotting wildlife and understanding their behavior. :man_detective:
💰 It's Pricey, But Worth It
Admission can be expensive, but the experience and animal welfare efforts justify the cost. :moneybag:
🗣️ Language Friendly
Guides are patient with limited Spanish and often speak excellent English. :speech_balloon:
🛏️ On-site Stays
Living onsite enhances the experience, allowing for after-hours patient visits. :bed:
🤝 Volunteer Opportunities
Hands-on experience for pre-vet students and vet techs is highly recommended. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary for its incredible wildlife encounters and the dedication of its staff and volunteers. The opportunity to see animals like sloths and jaguars up close, guided by informative and patient experts, is a major draw. While the cost is noted as high, the educational value and the sanctuary's conservation mission are seen as justifying the expense.
"We found 11/12 sloths, jaguars, coati, and a sleeping tapir. Our guide was friendly, informative, entertaining and patient with our 4 kids. Would definitely recommend a visit to natuwa."
Misha Suominen
"Two of us, old friends, a nurse and a doctor, spent a week as veterinary interns at Natuwa, we both felt it was an incredible experience. As human health care providers the parallels were many, the learning curve steep - it was completely fascinating. Andrés, the vet, is an excellent teacher and the entire facility is extremely well run. We helped with two surgeries and two necropsies, we helped give all the monkeys their routine antiparasitic medicine and worked with both monkeys and tapirs on operant conditioning. Living onsite made the whole experience richer as we could visit our patients after dark when needed! Natuwa seems to attract copacetic people so we also enjoyed the humans we met, both staff and volunteers.We will definitely be back!"
Diana Ensor
"We did a private tour of this beautiful sanctuary. Our guide was very nice, and was helpful and patient with our limited Spanish. (She spoke English very well!) She allowed us to go slowly and enjoy all of flora and fauna. Very informative, and lots of beautiful animals to enjoy. Definitely a highlight of our time in Costa Rica."
Robyn Booth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Puntarenas/Punta Morales area of Costa Rica. It's often accessed by car or taxi from nearby towns. If you're staying in a larger tourist hub, consider arranging transportation in advance.
While it's a dedicated sanctuary, it's advisable to use GPS or ask for directions locally once you are in the Punta Morales region to ensure you reach the correct entrance.
From San Jose, you can take a bus to Puntarenas and then arrange local transport to Natuwa. Alternatively, renting a car or hiring a private shuttle offers more flexibility.
Yes, Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular day trip destination for those in the Puntarenas region. Plan for at least a half-day to fully appreciate the sanctuary.
Direct public transport to the sanctuary itself might be limited. It's often best to take public transport to a nearby town like Puntarenas and then arrange a taxi or local bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary is noted as being quite expensive. While specific prices can vary, expect it to be a significant investment for admission.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially if you're interested in a private tour or visiting during peak season, to secure your spot.
Admission typically includes access to the sanctuary grounds and the opportunity to see the various animals. Guided tours are often an additional cost but highly recommended.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for any potential offers or group rates.
The sanctuary generally operates during daylight hours, with morning and afternoon tours available. It's advisable to confirm exact opening and tour times directly with the sanctuary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can expect to see a variety of animals including sloths, jaguars, coatis, tapirs, and various monkey species.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Knowledgeable and friendly guides significantly enhance the experience by helping you spot animals and providing interesting facts. +1
Absolutely! Guides are often patient with children, and the sanctuary offers an educational and engaging experience for the whole family.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash photography, especially with sensitive species.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing suitable for the tropical climate, and insect repellent. A hat and sunscreen are also advisable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities might be limited, it's common for sanctuaries to offer some refreshments or snacks. It's wise to bring your own water and snacks, or check with the sanctuary beforehand.
Bringing your own water is essential. For other food, it's best to inquire with the sanctuary, as some may have restrictions to maintain the animals' environment.
The sanctuary is in a more rural area. You'll likely find more dining options in the larger towns like Puntarenas.
Volunteers and on-site guests often enjoy incredible food as part of their experience, with meals prepared to be both delicious and nourishing.
If you are staying on-site or volunteering, communicating any dietary needs in advance is crucial for accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The diverse habitats and animals offer endless photo opportunities. Focus on capturing the animals in their natural settings.
Yes, a telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance without disturbing them.
Avoid using flash photography, especially near sensitive animals like sloths or nocturnal species. Always maintain a respectful distance.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for photography. Animals are also often more active during these cooler parts of the day.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check the sanctuary's specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a private tour to allow for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention for your family. The sanctuary's focus on animal care also provides a great opportunity to teach children about conservation and responsible wildlife interaction.
🎓 Pre-Vet & Vet Students
This immersive program is highly recommended for its educational value and the chance to work closely with a variety of species. The on-site living arrangements and communal meals foster a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
The sanctuary provides an opportunity to learn about the challenges facing local wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts. Engaging with the knowledgeable guides offers deeper insights into the ecosystem and the sanctuary's role within it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volunteer Experience at Natuwa
Living onsite is a significant part of the volunteer experience, allowing for a richer immersion into the sanctuary's operations and the ability to check on patients after hours. This close proximity fosters strong bonds with the animals and the dedicated staff. The community aspect is also a major draw, with volunteers often forming close friendships with both staff and fellow volunteers, creating a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere.
For anyone considering a volunteer stint, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The opportunity to learn from experienced veterinarians like Andrés, who is described as an excellent teacher, is a major draw. The entire facility is noted for being extremely well-run, making it a highly recommended experience for those looking for practical, impactful work in wildlife conservation.
Spotting Wildlife with Expert Guides
Beyond just spotting animals, the guides at Natuwa are praised for their informative and entertaining approach. They share insights into the animals' behaviors, diets, and conservation status, making the visit both educational and enjoyable. Many visitors, even those with limited Spanish, found the guides to be patient and accommodating, often speaking excellent English and willing to go at a comfortable pace.
The value of a guide cannot be overstated, especially given the sanctuary's focus on rehabilitation and conservation. They help visitors appreciate the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the importance of the sanctuary's work. For families, their patience and ability to engage children make the experience particularly memorable.
Understanding the Cost and Value
The value proposition extends beyond just seeing animals. It includes the opportunity to learn from dedicated professionals, witness firsthand the care provided to injured or orphaned wildlife, and contribute to a cause that protects biodiversity. For those who see the importance of conservation and ethical animal encounters, the cost is often viewed as a worthwhile contribution.
While the financial aspect is a consideration, the unique experiences offered, such as hands-on volunteer opportunities or highly personalized guided tours, add significant value. The sanctuary aims to provide an educational and impactful visit that resonates with visitors long after they leave.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit