Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Center
A vital wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to saving and caring for Costa Rica's animals affected by illegal trade and injury.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Center
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to saving and caring for Costa Rica's animals affected by illegal trade and injury.
"An amazing experience and one of the best things we did on our trip in Costa Rica."
Book Online
Secure your spot for tours or volunteer sessions by booking through their website in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the center, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Animal Encounters
Various enclosures
See rescued monkeys, birds, sloths, and more, learning their unique stories and rehabilitation journeys.
Educational Tours
Throughout the center
Engaging guides share insights into illegal pet trafficking and conservation efforts, making learning fun for all ages.
Volunteer Experience
Animal kitchens and enclosures
Prepare food for diverse animals and witness their enthusiastic feeding – a truly rewarding and interactive part of the visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand the Mission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Online
Secure your spot for tours or volunteer sessions by booking through their website in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the center, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Ask Questions!
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer all your questions about the animals and conservation. :iphone:
Vegan Options Available
While not all snacks are vegan, they can provide vegan alternatives like bananas for feeding. :banana:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Online
Secure your spot for tours or volunteer sessions by booking through their website in advance. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the center, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Ask Questions!
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer all your questions about the animals and conservation. :iphone:
Vegan Options Available
While not all snacks are vegan, they can provide vegan alternatives like bananas for feeding. :banana:
Not a Zoo Experience
Remember this is a rehabilitation center. Animals are treated with respect and are not pets. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Proyecto Asis for its educational and impactful tours, highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guides who share compelling stories about rescued animals. The center's dedication to rehabilitation and conservation is a major draw, with many appreciating the respectful treatment of animals and the opportunity to contribute through volunteer work. While some note the lack of vegan snack options for humans, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and highly recommended.
"Really enjoyed the tour with Carlos and learned so much about illegal pet trafficking - and I thought I was fairly informed to begin with! Some beautiful and unique animals, mostly bound for release, which is so great to see, and a solid explanation for every animal that will need to finish their life at the facility. This is not a zoo, these are not pets, and the animals are treated with a lot of respect.
Also lucked out and saw a wild sloth mother and baby while on the tour. Great experience. Definitely recommend."
Danforth N
"This was an amazing experience and one of the best things we did on our trip in Costa Rica. Carlos was an amazing guide and we learned a lot about the animals and how they do their best to rehabilitate them if possible. I highly recommend doing the volunteer option! The tour was great but we really loved that part of the visit."
Chris L
"Proyecto Asis is a sanctuary for many animals in Costa Rica that have been abandoned, have been injured, and kept illegally as pets.
These include monkeys, birds, pigs, cats, and many others.
Our guide Carlos was very knowledgeable and he was very entertaining explaining such hard topics such as poaching, illegal animal trade. He was great with the kids.
The tour was great!
This is a very worthy cause and I would recommend this to any visitors to Costa Rica."
Roger Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Proyecto Asis is located about a 30-minute drive from the center of La Fortuna. The roads are generally well-paved, making it accessible by car or taxi. Many visitors opt for a taxi or arrange transport through their accommodation. :car:
Yes, it's generally well-signposted. Using GPS or a mapping app on your phone is recommended for precise directions. :round_pushpin:
Public transport options might be limited and time-consuming. It's more convenient to arrange private transport or join a tour that includes transportation. :bus:
The drive from La Fortuna is scenic and on good roads, offering glimpses of the Costa Rican countryside. :mountain:
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors arriving by car. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for tours and volunteer sessions. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information. :moneybag:
It is highly recommended to book your tour or volunteer session in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your spot. :calendar:
The tour price typically includes a guided walk-through of the center, educational talks about the animals and conservation, and insights into their rehabilitation programs. :scroll:
Yes, they offer standard educational tours and more immersive volunteer sessions where you can help prepare food for the animals. :hands_on:
Opening hours can vary, and tours are often scheduled at specific times. Please consult the Proyecto Asis website for their current operating schedule and tour times. :clock1:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of rescued animals including monkeys, sloths, birds, peccaries, and sometimes even cats and pigs, all in various stages of rehabilitation. :monkey: :bird: :sloth:
Absolutely! The tours are very educational and engaging for children, with guides who are great at explaining complex topics in an accessible way. :child:
No, Proyecto Asis is a rehabilitation center, not a petting zoo. Direct contact with the animals is generally not permitted to respect their wild nature and aid their recovery. :noentrysign:
A standard guided tour usually lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing ample time to see the animals and learn about their stories. :stopwatch:
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended due to the tropical climate. :sneakers:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They may offer light snacks or refreshments, but it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period or participate in volunteer activities. :water_wave:
During volunteer sessions, vegan options like bananas are provided for animal feeding. For human consumption, options might be limited, so bringing your own vegan snacks is a good idea. :apple:
There are usually designated areas where you can enjoy your own packed meals. Check with staff upon arrival for the best spots. :picnic_table:
Proyecto Asis is located a short drive from La Fortuna, which offers a wide range of dining options from local sodas to international cuisine. :forkandknife:
Bring a reusable water bottle. There might be refill stations available, or you can purchase bottled water. :droplet:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the animals and avoid using flash, as it can disturb them. :camera:
The enclosures offer various vantage points. Your guide can often point out good spots and times to capture memorable shots of the animals. :viewfinder:
Drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to check their specific policy before flying. :noentrysign:
A camera with a good zoom lens is helpful for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. A smartphone camera can also capture great moments. :iphone:
Be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography that might stress the wildlife. :respect:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to teach children about the importance of respecting animals and the environment. Remember to dress comfortably and bring water, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. The center's focus on rehabilitation rather than entertainment ensures a valuable learning experience for the whole family.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Choosing to participate in their tours or volunteer programs means you are actively contributing to a worthy cause. The educational aspect of the visit is profound, providing insights into the impact of human activities on wildlife and inspiring a deeper commitment to protecting natural habitats. This is responsible tourism at its finest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Proyecto Asis
Visitors often remark on how educational the experience is, learning about the harsh realities of poaching and illegal animal trafficking. The guides, like Carlos, are praised for their ability to convey these serious topics with knowledge, humor, and sensitivity, making the information accessible even for younger visitors. This focus on education aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for Costa Rica's diverse wildlife and the importance of protecting it.
Experiencing the Tours and Volunteering
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the volunteer option is highly recommended. This typically involves helping to prepare food for the diverse array of animals. It's a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to directly contribute to the animals' well-being. Witnessing the animals eagerly devour the food you helped prepare is a memorable part of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit