Visit us
Come and visit Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center. Your visit contributes to the conservation and protection of Costa Ricas biodiversity.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center - Zoave
A unique wildlife experience.
visit
Guided Tour or General Entrance
Get Involved
Become an Intern or a Volunteer
Donate
Donate, become a Sponsor or adopt a rescued animal
More than a wildlife rescue center.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center (formerly Zoo Ave) is a 100 % Costa Rican non-profit foundation dedicated to conserving the country’s wildlife. The animal sanctuary and wildlife rehabilitation center is the oldest of its kind with over 30 years of experience in rehabilitating and releasing wildlife, preserving habitat and providing lifetime care for the animals that could not survive on their own in the wild.
Who we are
We are certified
By The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS)
Have you met sloth “Frai Choco“?
Frai Choco is a two-toed sloth who was found in Fraijanes, Alajuela. Unfortunately, Frai Choco is an orphan, and he came to Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center Zoave at just three months old. Frai Choco is named in part due to the neighborhood where he was found, and the “choco” part of his name comes from his chocolate, dark-brown fur. He lost his mom …
What makes us different
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center is one of the most respected and reputable sanctuaries in all of Costa Rica. For decades, we have dedicated ourselves to the rehabilitation and reintroduction of native animals. We feel strongly that limited interference and human handling is what is best for wild animals, and do our best to give permanent residents the most natural life possible. These are our projects that make us different:
Veterinary Hospital and Rehabilitation Center
Sanctuary
We care for about 650 animals that cannot be returned to the wild.
It is the only project open to the public!
3 Release Sites
We have 3 release sites throughout the country: La Garita, Bosque Econdido Nicoya Peninsula and San Josecito next to Pierdra Blancas National Park.
Breeding Programs for endangered species
We run various breeding
programs to be released
back into the wild like Scarlet
Macaws, Great Green
Macaws, Great Curassows
and more on the roadmap.
Educational Programs
We run different programs, where you can learn about the conservation of Flora and Fauna of Costa Rica.
Current Projects we need help with
Donate for a specific object or project. Feel free to add a description to your donation, so we know which campaign you want to support 🙂
Wildlife Rescue Center & veterinary clinic
Last year we have received over 2,600 animals, of which nearly 1,000 were babies, nestlings, or fledglings adorable babies each year — from sloths and monkeys to birds and reptiles. Incubators are crucial for their development. These aren’t just for the newborns; they’re also a lifeline for animals in critical conditions. Together we can make a difference between life and death for them. 
#HelpUsHelpThem
$ 1,225
Goal $ 5,000
Endangered Species
Breeding Programs
Back in the 1940s, Scarlet Macaws were a common sight all over Costa Rica, except in the high mountains. However, around 2000, their numbers dropped dramatically, and they were only found in two spots on the Pacific coast. With the help of projects like ours, we’re bringing them back. Be a part of our mission to restore their population to its former state.
$ 5,245
Goal $ 30,000
Sanctuary
Reptile-House
Join us in making a real difference! We’ve welcomed numerous reptiles in need, and they deserve the best. That’s why we’re constructing a brand-new reptile house, and we’ve already invested our own funds to get started. Together, we prioritize the well-being of our wildlife, and your support can help us provide them with the exceptional homes they deserve.
$ 70
Goal $ 60,000
Endangered Species
Breeding Programs
The Great Green Macaw is CRITICAL ENDANGERED! But what does that mean? There are probably less than an 1,000 adults worldwide, which means that they are just one step away from extinction. The Great Green is almost only native to central america and if we cannot restore the numbers, they can only be seen in zoos. Therefore, support our project and be a part of this mission.
$ 4,500
Goal $ 45,000
Work with Costa Ricas wildlife
Veterinary interns work directly with our highly experienced veterinarian and our rehabilitation staff. Over 3,000 animals are admitted to the rescue center on an annual basis and include orphans, injured animals, electrocutions, confiscations and surrendered pets. Additionally, there are over 800 non-releasable wild animals in our sanctuary that require medical management. Veterinary interns assist with with animal intakes, exams, treatments, surgeries, feeding and record keeping.
Visitor Reviews
Our Sponsors
You Make Dreams Come True: Heartfelt Thanks to Our Incredible Sponsors!
We extend our deepest gratitude to the amazing sponsors who stand by us in our mission to protect and preserve wildlife. Your generosity empowers us to make a difference, one animal at a time. Thank you for being the heroes in our story, ensuring a future where nature thrives. Together, we're creating a legacy of compassion and conservation. Your support is the heartbeat of our sanctuary, and for that, we are truly thankful.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What to expect on your visit at Rescate Wildlife.
What are your opening hours?
We are open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm, every day of the year! You can also find our opening hours HERE.
Do you have a parking lot?
Yes we have a free private parking lot. Our staff will guide you to a free spot for your car. Find our more about your visit here.
What age is considered a child?
Children are from 2 years old to 12 years old. Below 2 years old are free, and 13 years old would be considered an adult rate. For more information click HERE.
Do I need to make a reservation ahead of time?
For a regular entrance you do not need to reserve ahead of time, but if you are interested in a guided tour, you do need an online reservation. Here is the link to our reservation platform: TICKETS & TOURS
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, there is not problem for you to bring in food to enjoy a snack or a picnic. We ask that you not bring in any alcoholic beverages or BBQ’s.
Can I bring in my pets?
No, we do not allow pets. We have a lot of animals that are roaming wild, including Iguanas, peacocks and other birds. For the safety of your animals and ours it is not permitted to bring in any pets.
Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, you can bring in service animals, as long as you have the appropriate documentation and the animals are identified as so.
Is there a restaurant?
Yes, we have a restaurant onsite which is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm as well. The restaurant is open to the public, you do not need to visit the sanctuary in order to eat there. Would you like to get more information and see the menu? Click HERE.
Is there WIFI?
Yes, we have free wifi in various parts of the sanctuary, including the main entrance and restaurant. There is not wifi on all of the trails.
Can I pet or feed the animals?
No, these are wild animals and we do not permit any interactions with them. Our animals are well looked after and fed a nutritious diet, feeding them can cause health issues, or unwanted or unsafe interactions. Please respect them by keeping your distance. If we find that anyone is feeding or touching the animals we do reserve the right to escort them out of the property.
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Copyright © 2024 Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center. All rights reserved.
Non-Profit Number: 3006171553
