If you are passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to learn about Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is a place you cannot miss. Nestled in the lush mountains near Dominical, this sanctuary offers an educational and impactful experience while providing visitors with a close look at some of the country’s most fascinating creatures.
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary: A beacon of hope
Costa Rica is known worldwide for its incredible biodiversity, housing 6% of the planet’s species within just 0.03% of its landmass. However, the country’s rich ecosystems face mounting threats from human activities like habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and urban encroachment. Preserving these fragile environments and the species that depend on them has become critical, and rehabilitating the country's wildlife is crucial to maintaining the ecosystems that make Costa Rica a unique destination.
One organization at the forefront of this effort is Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled in the rainforests of Puntarenas, the sanctuary is not only a refuge for injured and orphaned wildlife but also a hub for education and ethical tourism.
A leader in Wildlife Rehabilitation
What sets Alturas apart from many other wildlife organizations is its dedication to ethical tourism and education, encouraging visitors to observe these remarkable animals and learn about their stories, their rehabilitation process, and the ongoing challenges of wildlife conservation. Located along the highway between Quepos and Dominical, it serves as a sanctuary for species that have suffered from illegal domestication, abuse, or injuries caused by human activities. A dedicated team of professionals, interns, and volunteers work tirelessly to care for the animals.
The sanctuary operates a 24/7 veterinary clinic, which handles around two rescue cases per day. These animals receive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and care tailored to their needs. However, not all of them can return to their natural habitat. For those who cannot be safely released, Alturas provides a permanent home where they can live out their lives in a setting that closely resembles their natural environment.
As an eco-conscious tourist destination, Alturas offers an intimate and impactful experience that goes beyond typical wildlife encounters. Instead of exploiting animals for entertainment, it fosters a deep understanding of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife preservation. Through educational tours, volunteering, and research opportunities, the Sanctuary empowers visitors to become active participants in the fight to protect Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity, making it an essential stop for those who seek more than just the beauty of nature but to understand how to safeguard it.
Tours: An educational and responsible visitor experience
Visiting Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary allows you to embark on an educational journey while learning about the conservation needs of its permanent residents.
A visit to Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is both educational and inspiring. The sanctuary conducts daily tours, allowing visitors to meet some of Costa Rica’s most iconic species (spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, two-toed sloths, anteaters, parrots, scarlet macaws, toucans, an ocelot, and even a crocodile) while learning about their behaviors, habitats, and the threats they face. Each tour is guided by passionate staff members who share insights into the sanctuary's conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
Tours typically last about an hour, during which you’ll hear about Costa Rica’s wildlife challenges, such as deforestation, illegal pet trade, and road accidents. More importantly, you’ll learn how Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is making a difference through its rescue efforts, community outreach, and educational programs.
Most tours are conducted in English, but arrangements can be made for Spanish-speaking tours by contacting the sanctuary in advance via email (tours@alturaswildlifesanctuary.org) or phone (+506 8609 5363). You can book or cancel tours through their website. Importantly, 100% of tour fees directly support the sanctuary's operations, which rely entirely on donations, tours, and volunteer programs.
Tour Dates & Times
- Peak Season: Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00, 11:00, and 13:00
- Low Season (16th Sept - 5th Nov 2024):Tuesday, Saturday, Sunday: 09:00, 11:00, and 13:00Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 09:00 and 11:00
An ethical approach to wildlife rehabilitation
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary takes a strict animal-first approach to ensure the well-being of its residents. Touching or handling wildlife is prohibited, as well as adhering to Costa Rican law and safeguarding the animals, especially those recovering from trauma. The sanctuary promotes the #StopAnimalSelfies movement, advocating for ethical wildlife tourism by discouraging practices that exploit or endanger animals.
Why Visit Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary?
- Support Wildlife Conservation: Your visit directly funds the rescue and rehabilitation of Costa Rican wildlife. The sanctuary relies on tour fees and donations for medical care, food, and ongoing animal support.
- Educational Experience: Alturas provides invaluable lessons about the importance of conservation. Whether you're a family or a solo traveler, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these animals' challenges and how you can help protect them.
- Ethical Wildlife Tourism: Unlike traditional zoos, Alturas prioritizes animal welfare and focuses on rehabilitation, aiming to release as many animals as possible back into their natural habitats.
Plan Your Visit
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique, ethical, and impactful experience. By visiting, you’ll witness some of Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife up close and contribute to ongoing efforts to protect these species and their habitats. It’s an essential destination for any eco-conscious traveler seeking a deeper connection to wildlife conservation.
Getting to Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is conveniently located just 15 minutes north of Dominical and about 45 minutes south of Manuel Antonio, making it an easy stop along the Pacific Coast. The roads are well-maintained, and parking is available for visitors. It’s recommended to book your tour in advance, as the sanctuary limits the number of visitors per tour to ensure a peaceful environment for the animals.
Volunteer & Internship Opportunities
For those looking to deepen their experience, Alturas offers volunteer programs and internships. Volunteers come from around the world to assist with a variety of tasks, including animal care, food preparation, and cleaning facilities. Interns and volunteers can stay on-site or in nearby towns, with opportunities ranging from one day to three months. For more details on application procedures and pricing, follow the link on their website.
Additionally, Alturas welcomes students conducting academic research for B.Sc, M.Sc, and Ph.D. programs. For inquiries, please contact: manager@alturaswildlifesanctuary.org.
Key Logistical Information
Animal Emergency Phone Number:
If you encounter an injured wild animal in Costa Rica, please contact the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary at +506 8589 7812.
Ticket Prices (including taxes):
- Adults: $33
- Children (3-12): $17
- Adult Nationals: $11
- Children (3-12) Nationals: $5
Final Thoughts
Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a place to observe animals; it’s a center of hope and action for Costa Rican wildlife. By visiting, you not only enjoy the unique experience of seeing these incredible creatures up close but also contribute to their rehabilitation and future survival. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife conservation or seeking a meaningful stop on your Costa Rican adventure, Alturas is a must-visit.
As a model of ethical wildlife tourism, Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary empowers visitors to support the mission of protecting and rehabilitating Costa Rica’s most vulnerable species. Through tours, volunteering, and research opportunities, you can actively participate in safeguarding Costa Rica’s natural treasures for generations to come.
