How frustrating it is nowadays to visit rescue centres. Whenever I visit one, I don't know what I will encounter: a show or an actual rehabilitation centre. It is sad, but the reality is that nowadays many “rescue” centres aren't about rescue at all. They use animals for profit. A zoo in disguise, which, in my opinion, is worse than a zoo. At least a zoo is honest. We all know they profit. Some people don't care, but I do. A lot.
In A Rush? Plan Your Wildlife Visit In Puerto Viejo
✦ Ethical Wildlife Experience — Book Jaguar Rescue Center + Cahuita
✦ Where To Stay — Find Stays Near Playa Chiquita
Affiliate links: I may earn a small commission from bookings at no extra cost to you.
So, I visited the Jaguar Rescue Center, conveniently very close to my accommodation, near Playa Chiquita, in Puerto Viejo. I could walk there. It was raining, it was humid. Perfect jungle day. I went in with fear, but I was immediately reassured once I stepped inside.
I would be very confident in saying that this is an actual rescue centre, and a good one. Probably the best on the Costa Rican Caribbean coast. Definitely the best in Puerto Viejo. So, if you are looking into what to do in Puerto Viejo, I would suggest you visit this place. Your visit helps fund wildlife rehabilitation, and those animals that cannot be released may spend the rest of their lives there, being cared for by people who give a sh*** about wildlife. Sorry for the swearing, but I am too passionate.
Inside the Jaguar Rescue Center
The Jaguar Center is neither too big nor too small. It has a good capacity for what it does, though. Because they rescue animals and work towards their release, the wildlife you encounter will probably be different from what I saw, and that is a good thing. It means that animals are being rehabilitated and, whenever possible, successfully returned to their natural habitat.
And this is also the reason why you won't be able to touch or feed any animals. Because this is not a zoo, fortunately. Whenever you see random tourists touching wild animals, run away. Some people like to profit from animals in need. Human beings, I suppose.
You will be able to talk to the guides and admire many species from a distance. They will explain each animal's story, its progress and the aim for its rehabilitation. At the end, you will know that your money is helping these beautiful creatures, who need a second chance.
Support Local Businesses
Travelling is also about supporting the people who call a place home. If you're planning to rent a car in Costa Rica, consider choosing a local rental provider. Explore independently while supporting local businesses.
Find a Local Car Rental →Affiliate link: I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How to Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center
I recommend booking your visit through the link below, together with Cahuita National Park, as I did. I preferred it this way because transport to both places is taken care of, and you get a full day of wildlife encounters. Some animals are living freely in the national park, while others are being rescued, with the hope of releasing them back into the wild in the future.
I will leave a link below to book the same experience I had, combining these two wonderful places along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Explore the Wild Side of Puerto Viejo
Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center and Cahuita National Park in one day. Encounter Costa Rica's incredible wildlife, from rescued animals to those roaming freely in the rainforest. Transport is taken care of, so you can simply enjoy the experience.
Affiliate disclosure: I may earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Where to Stay to Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center
I was staying in Playa Chiquita. I have written, with a lot of effort, an overview of the different places to stay in Puerto Viejo. Depending on your needs or what kind of trip you're having, one location might be more convenient for you.
Playa Chiquita was perfect for me because it was close to everything. I will pin a map with accommodation options around the area. But feel free to read my post about where to stay in Puerto Viejo if you need more guidance or information.
Stay Close to the Wild
Planning a visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center? Explore accommodation around Playa Chiquita and Puerto Viejo, from jungle hideaways to Caribbean beach stays. I stayed in Playa Chiquita, just a walk away from the rescue centre.
Affiliate disclosure: I may earn a small commission if you book accommodation through this map, at no extra cost to you.
