REVIEWS

I stayed at the rescue center with my son (13 years old) for almost a month. We had a great time and were able to learn a lot about the different animals. Their behavior, what they eat, etc. It was sometimes strenuous work, but that is also part of looking after the animals. We would go back to the rescue center at any time.Many thanks to the entire teamReto and Gian

- Reto & Gian



I would first say its not for everyone, you need to be willing to adapt and comfortable being a little uncomfortable. But if you look past your own comfort and focus on the comfort of the many animals you will get to engage with you see the true meaning of the center.A wonderful place with great people from all over the world with a common goal.

- Mark



It was a wonderful time with a kind and helpful staff and amazing animals. Concerning the food I lacked some vegetables but we always had special sweets for birthdays, last days, valentines day. I enjoyed the community and learned a lot about feeding and caring for different animals. One day per week was sparetime and once a week a trip is offenes.Thanks very much - I hope to come back with my family!

- Katrin



I have volunteered here three times in the last year and also visited, everyone is so friendly, it feels like family to meYou can arrange for transportation to the centre or make your own arrangements, the rooms are clean, with hot showers and three meals a day around your duties which are on a rota so the longer you stay, the more you will get out of it as you will get to help all of the animalsThere is plenty of downtime as well once the work is done, to enjoy time by the pool, an evening activity or a day tripA lot of hard work has gone in to get this centre up and running and they do some amazing work - rehabilitate and release where possible and for those unable to to return to the wildlife, they get a 5* service with regular check upsA definitely worthy experience

- Sue



I was at the rescue center for 8 weeks. After a while the food became a little bit boring, lots of beans and rice. But that is a part of the culture there so I get it. The staff was amazing, I met the most open minded people there and they really made me feel at home. Those 8 weeks changed my life for the better and im so grateful for everything. I would love to come back as soon as possible.

- Emme



Ive been at the rescue center for almost one month and I had the best time ever. The other volunteers are amazing and great relationships were made. The staff cares deeply for the animals, giving them an opportunity to go back to the wild or (if they are disabled or to domesticated to go back) to enjoy their lifes at the rescue center. As a volunteer you get to do different zones every day. Laura organizes trips once a week, which are always a lot of fun and you get the possibility to see the country. Even on your work days you have different events in the evening (karaoke, dance class, bar night, sunset watching, movie night). If you eat vegan or vegetarian, the kitchen staff will take care of it and will cook separately for you. I cant wait to go back there.

- Teresa



My experience at the rescue center was amazing. I had such pleasure to help animals over there and I met a lot of friends! I was very worried because I came alone but its so much easier to be alone actually haha I will recommend this center to everyone. Also, animals are very lucky to be there because the staff is amazing and they have fresh food everyday and a lot of care.Thanks again for this experience

- stephanie



Had an amazing time working at the rescue center! Learned a TON about animals and got the chance to help in so many different ways! Come expecting to work, but the rescue center will help support in any way you need in your travels! Amazing time!

- Tanner



Met really cool people here and loved my stay. Changed my life

- Camille



I had a great time volunteering in the rescue center . The place is well managed and there are many animals to help / take care. I met amazing people there. Thank you for this great experience , I will never forger it !!!!

- Cecile

Recently visited with kids. We all loved the place. Very neat, animals seem to be in a great care. Owners and staff are very knowledgable and friendly. I even was offered to consult with their vet on the nutrition for our pet.
Please go and support!

- Elvi

Fue una experiência rica! Recomendo muchísimo! Trabajo muy bello!

- Daniela

The experience was great, we enjoyed every second there.
Coyote got our attention, such as beautiful animal.
The tour was very educational and full of information.
You need to go there & experience how the rescue center is giving its best to those amazing animals.

- Tania L



The overall experience was wonderful! This is definitely a fantastic learning experience for any animal lover. The animals here are unique to anyone not from the area since they are common to Costa Rica and the surrounding region. The animals are well taken care of and everyone receives the amount of animal experience time that they want every day. The meals, accommodations, and transportation are all provided! The food is good and the living area is very homey. Everyone is friendly and approachable and by staying a long time, they start to feel like family. For anyone who is on the fence about this experience, I would say to do it because its a great opportunity to work with animals in a rescue center in such a beautiful country. Im looking forward to hopefully returning in the future!

- Rose

Excelente manejo y protección de los animales, el guía explica ampliamente la historia de cada animal en el refugio, así como sus características, además se puede apreciar el trabajo y la entrega del equipo. Los niños disfrutan y aprenden de forma segura.

- Roxana R

Es un refugio para animales silvestres. Su trato es de lo mejor, cuidan muy bien a sus animalitos. Tienen su propio médico y personal dedicados completamente a su salud y bienestar.

- Ana Madrigal

Para ser un centro nuevo se nota la preocupación con los animales y con los voluntarios, se puede ver que tienen interés en la seguridad tanto de los animales como de los mismos voluntarios. Además, las personas que trabajan en el centro como los mismos internos que estudian veterinaria son buenas personas preocupadas y con ganas tanto de enseñar como de aprender lo cual, como voluntaria agradezco mucho.
El centro es muy amplio, para muchos animales en el cual personalmente tuve una muy buena experiencia que recomendaría siempre aunque no estudiara veterinaria.

- Maria Jose S

I enjoyed several costarican tours during my volunteer period, It was a great experience.

Thanks for everything.

- Peter Wilson

During the sea turtle nesting season I had the best experience of my life.

Thank you so much Rescue Center Costa Rica.

Keep up the good work.

- Lisa Morris



Great experience, our tour guide from Ontario did a fantastic job and we got to see what we came to Costa Rica to see Sloths, would recommend checking it out its a must.

- Tim



Highly recommend visiting if you get the chance. The place was amazing and the staff were so lovely and welcoming. They really devote all of their time to rescuing and saving their precious animals and it was such a great experience to be able to see this. I would definitely visit again if Im back in Costa Rica!

- Fiona



My group (consisting of 4 adults and an 18 month old) had a spectacular time on our tour of the rescue center. We saw lots of happily rescued animals including birds, monkeys and even baby sloths! Our tour guide was a very nice, patient and well-informed young man that answered ALL of our questions with a smile on his face. He seemed very happy as a volunteer there and even told us about how we could volunteer in the future. Thank you to the Rescue Center staff for taking care of us as guests, but more importantly, taking care of the beautiful creatures in your center and enusring they can live out there lives safely and in peace. Pura Vida!

- Amber



Our family enjoyed the time we spent at the Rescue Center. The owners were very friendly and knowledgeable. Our tour was one of our favorite things we did in Costa Rica. The volunteer that we were with answered all of our questions and also allowed us to take our time observing each animal. We would go back for another visit.

- Pamela



It was one of our favorite day of our Costa Rica trip.

- Pascale



This place is amazing and respectful with animals. The food is great and the atmosphere very friendly. We had the chance to meet Lou who made the visit with us. Thanks and see you next time we come to CR

- Delphine



the stay at the rescue center was amazing! and it was great to get to know other volunteers and the really nice staff.I loved that they were also offering trips on the free days and the work with the animals was fun! Thank you for this time I will never forget:)

- Carla





Accueil a laeroport tres securitaire. On nous assigne un dortoir. Je voyage avec ma fille de 16 ans.Tout est bien organise. Les taches sont simples et on travaille en equipe. Il y a toutefois des benevoles qui ne travaillent pas toujours fort selon moi.La nourriture est excellente et cest parfait pour essayer des nouveautes.Les gens sont accueillants. Et wow pour le contact avec les animaux.Experience inoubliable. Nous recommandons Rescue Center.Josee et Jade

- Jose





Amazing staff, I felt so welcomed and such rewarding work with great work experience. Ive met friends there that I will keep for life we still meet up and have plans to go back there in the future. I would recommend this to anyone, I went there on my own thinking I would only meet a few people and that I would only be around animals and even though I was always around the animals, I met wonderful people and they work so hard for the animals to give them the best life possible. If youre thinking about going JUST DO IT!!! You will not regret trust me!

- Alex





My personal high light was meeting the sloths . The staff were all lovely and made me feel welcome. I met some great people and have wonderful memories. Didnt always enjoy the meals but think you have changed them a bit. I now have my own hammock.

- Kent





Its one of those experiences that the average person only gets to enjoy a handful of times in their life. A very rewarding and enjoyable time around some fantastic animals and great people.

- Rose





I have volunteered at the Rescue Center twice now. Its an extraordinary opportunity to observe sloths, monkeys, parrots and other endangered animals up close. There is nothing so uplifting as the connection you make with an animal over food, a toy, or just observing one another.

- Svetlana





My time at the rescue centre allowed me to make a number of new, long lasting friendships. I was also exposed to an environment which allowed me to deepen my interest in working with wild animals and I learnt many new essential skills for working in this industry. I would recommend volunteering at the rescue centre for these reasons but also be rest assured that the staff are kind and very professional.

- Luc





Do it!!! Uncomparable opportunity for anyone of any ages! This place becomes home, and you really see the impact youre making. One of my best decisions ever!

- Hannah





Great volunteering experience in Costa Rica. The place is a little paradise. The dorms are clean and the food is very good. You can ask for special diet which is nice (vegan, vegetarian,.. Etc). People working there are really friendly. The work with the animals vary during the week and you also have time to rest or enjoy the pool if you want. I had a really good time there and Im looking forward to coming back

- Sophie





My only complaint is that I wasnt there longer :) It was a great experience

- Brendan





Even before getting to Costa Rica the people at the center were always eager to answer all questions and help with possible issues. Once arrived I was welcomed at the airport and felt at home right away! Everything was very well organized at the center and Izmael always made sure we had delicious food to eat. It was interesting to talk to Laura and Vanessa about the animals and the beautiful country Costa Rica. The coordinator jack provided the place with lots of fun activities and endless memorable moments. I felt appreciated at all times and would definitely recommend staying at this place not only to spend time and care for the animals but also to get to know those amazing people! Thanks again for this special time. I will definitely come back.

- Franziska





I really loved working at this place! The owners and the stuff are great and do an amazing work. Also working with and for the animals is so much fun and gets you some amazing memories. At the center you meet a lot of great people, so you are never alone. I definitely recommend everyone to go there!-Janet

- Janet



Todo fue excelente.

- Leonardo





This was the best trip Ive ever been on and would recommend this rescue centre to volunteer at to anyone interested. Thank you!

- Jessica





Thank you for having me working here, in the place I love so much. The past year has been one of the best in my life, and I am so so sad its ending. I really hope that I helped during my time here, and even made things a small amount better for the volunteers and animals. Working with you has been great - Ive learned so much and really admire how determined you are to improve the lives of our animals, whether that is investing in better enclosures or releasing them into the wild when they are ready. The Center seems like it is on a great path, thanks to you and Mike, and I hope that continues. Giving animals better lives is what its all about...

- Siobhan Cunliffe (Coordinator)



Amazing visit - great staff!

- Edward



It was a very pleasant moment with the team. We could have a full tour of the animals and understand their origins, healthcare. The team is so engaged and we could even have lunch with the band of volunteers. It's really close from the airport so I would advice any traveler to make a stop arriving or leaving Costa Rica.

- Julien



Really enjoyed walking about the facility. Saw lots of different animals native to Costa Rica and heard about their story. Staff were knowledgeable and it was evident that the animals were well cared for. Thank you for a great experience.

- Zoe



The Rescue Center is doing INCREDIBLE work. As a teacher, I have visited four times with students from the USA. Each time we visit, I find that improvements have been made to the grounds. The animals are always so well cared for. The center is obviously using its resources very wisely. Our work there has been meaningful, focused, and fun. The staff have been a dream to work with. I am taking two more groups this year and have several more scheduled for 2020. Highly recommend!!!

- Stacie





I stayed with the centre for a week and it was the best experience. Having hands on time with sloths and howler monkeys was a dream come true for me. The tasks are not daunting, but rather enjoyable in the beautiful Costa Rican sunshine. There is a pool and lots of free time to relax and enjoy your time. We were also fed extremely well. Overall, I have so much respect for this rescue centre, as I got to see first hand how well the animals are taken care of. I met the owners who started this whole thing, and the passion and love for animals is indescribable. I will be back one day!

- Brianne





Volunteering at the center has been one of the best things I have done and cant wait to go back again! It is a beautiful place with beautiful people and the most adorable animals. They really look after you, organising activities and giving us awesome meals. Highly recommended for any animal lovers!

- Katie





We really enjoyed our time with the animals and the interesting people that were also at the center volunteering. The staff were very nice and helpful. The center was relaxing and engaging. We had so much fun and learned so much about the animals.

- JoAnne





This was my second time coming to the Rescue Centre with my daughter. The first time I came with my 3 year old and her best friends family. There was so much for the kids to do and help with even at a young age. For the 3 year olds, they helped to deliver food and water bowls to the different animal enclosures and they enjoyed making enrichment toys for the animals.This time I brought my husband along and my now 6 year old daughter and we stayed for 5 days. The schedule of 2 hours of working with animals to tidy enclosures and feed the animals in the morning and then 2 hours again in the afternoon, left lots of time in the hours between to enjoy the pool and just relax with a book. We brought along some card games for my daughter but she took to the culture of being a part of the team and loved hanging out with some of the young adults who were volunteering at the centre as well. There was a large international community that mostly spoke English but I was able to try to practise my Spanish with the very friendly staff.The centre was accommodating and reserved a dorm room just for our family of three for privacy and to account for varying bedtimes, though there were beds enough for five in there. There were some activities planned in the evening like capture the flag and my daughter initiated a marshmallow roasting event and taught others how to make smores. We wished that we could have participated in the evening events like the night walk but it was too late for our family. Definitely something to look forward to in the future.My husband found the wifi internet to be extremely slow, and it was explained that it was just the nature of being out of the range of the city where the service level is not as good. Personally, I liked that there was little access to the Internet and allow us to slow down the pace of our lives. Having said that, it was helpful for us to have picked up a SIM card and a data plan at the airport because we were able to help another couple plan another portion of their trip by accessing the internet through my mobile.I was impressed that the kitchen and Oggi who runs the kitchen was able to make different food for vegans and vegetarians and those with celiac. The food was delicious, though the portions werent enough initially and we were shy about asking for more. But later, we asked for seconds after others had eaten and then it was filling. The location of the centre makes it difficult to just walk to the store to get other supplies for snacks and beverages and we had a problem with the fridge being so full that it was hard to see whos food was whose so somethings that we purchased disappeared. But it wasnt a big deal as others shared what they had.One suggestion is to move the smoking area farther away from the dorm rooms as the smoke was irritating for the lungs and dont forget to bring earplugs because the wind can get strong and the trees banging on the roof make a loud sound that is hard to sleep to without the earplugs. The price of our stay was really affordable and because it included three meals, it was very relaxing not to do any cooking. Though everyone pitched in to clean their own plates at the sink after meals, which is a great example for kids to see that everyone needs to help out.Finally, the animals especially the sloths are a big draw. As there are often babies born at the centre or brought to the centre, it is really great to see them up close. Though the centre is working with law officials on how to safely rehabilitate and release animals back to the wild, the reality is that some of these animals will never be allowed to be released for safety reasons. So this is their forever home. This new location has gardens for the sloths to live in as opposed to cages which was a big change from the last place. It is expensive to care for these animals and the Lizano family has purchased this land and been taking care of the animals for a long time. Being here, staying here for a while and volunteering is so different from going to a zoo. It is a really great experience for kids to take care of animals and let them reflect on the reasons for why animals get hurt, how can humans and animals co-exist, and foster empathy. I could go on but you should just come and find out for yourself.

- Adrienne





I've really enjoyed my time at Rescue Center Costa Rica. As a volunteer you follow a diverse program which include feeding, cleaning and enrichment tasks. The accommodation is clean and modern. There are hammocks, a pool and a little library. Every day you receive 3 home cooked meals. Truly delicious! The staff is open to ideas and suggestions. Great environment where the focus is on the recovery and well being of the animals.

- Andrea





I had such a great experience!!! Staff is very very kind and friendly, love them all! I had the transportation at the time and location I needed. The place is amazing, with so many beautiful trees and plants, so many birds, nice rooms with comfortable beds. I had vegan options in all my meals. Love all the animals at the rescue center, they get really good care and love. Met so many wonderful people. This is an experience everyone should have in life. Just loved it, highly recomended!

- Barbara





Volunteering at Rescue Center Costa Rica is a fun and special way to begin or end a trip to Costa Rica for any age. The staff are all friendly, the rooms are nice and clean, and the food is great. It's an awesome opportunity to give back to the people and animals that make this place so beautiful!

- Samantha





The people are great, the facilities are great, the food is good, organisation is good; overall I had an amazing experience and would love to go back. Its a great place for hard-workers and open-minded people, and its a great place to create unique memories.

- Aymara





Had an amazing time, loved everything about it! Lovely food and I loved that they catered for vegans :) the trips were fab and well priced and transport to and from the airport made travelling on my own so much easier and relaxing. The animals were just gorgeous and I was so sad to leave them and all the friends I made from around the world. I will definitely be back! Thank you for the best 3 weeks.

- Megan





i was a bit nervous at the beginning, but everything was great! When I arrived, there was someone to pick me up from the airport. And at the rescue center, our team leader was there to show me around and make me feel comfterable. They make teams every day. Every team is responsible for different animals. They made sure that there always was someone in the Group Who really knows what to do, so you never feel useless or insecure.The food was amazing. Oggy prepaid great meals every day. It was really healthy, but in my first week at the center, there was not much fruit. In my second week there were lots of bananas. I ate about fout bananas every day. The team leader, Siobhan, was so nice and helpfull. She even organised Night walks and our weekly trips on our days off. There was also a possibility to go to the supermarket three times a week.I met so many great people there. So greatfull for that experience and I would definately come again. You really connect with the animals too in such a short time. I miss them already.To anyone whoa€™s still not sure to go, I only have one thing to say. Please go to this rescue center. They are amazing towards the animals and volunteers.Thank you for the amazing time Ia€™ve had at the center. So greatfull a¤i¸Sarah

- Sarah





I pass 2 nights at the rescue and it was amazing i wich i could stay a few more days it was a great opportunity to be close to many animals and taking care of them is what i had prefer. The food was cook by a gentle men super friendly and it was delicious at every meal! Now i want to make my own bread to! I dont think of something to improve it was perfect! I think you should have a few items to sell with your logo not only for publicity but yo help you to raise money for the shelter (i bought a nice green bag) the fact that the transport was included make the decision easy to chose your shelter as well as your flexibility to accept people only for 2 days. I hope i will come back with my friend Veronique she loved the place also! Thank you for that nice adventure... before i left i been took in picture by ..not sure how to write her name.. Shiabone C . With my friend and the Sloth i would realy like to have the picture she said she would send it to us it was january 27th Emilie from Montreal Qc Canada

- Emilie





I went with my daughter to Rescue Center Costa Rica today. I love how organized and clean the place is, and how much love and dedication is given to each one of the rescued animals! The enclosures are huge and filled with toys and fresh organic food ❤️

- Francesca F



I absolutely loved everything about it. Such a friendly, fun and peaceful place. Adored Mikey, Nugget, Ninoshka, Rice&Beans, and so many others. Thanks so much for making my stay a very memorable one!

- Yigit





I think a beautiful place where an exemplary work is done

- Eliecer Villalobos



My 15 year old son and I spent a week volunteering at the Center in June, and we have nothing but positive things to say. The owners are wonderful people who are committed to preserving and caring for the welfare of all of the animals. The vet team was dedicated and well-trained, and the permanent staff - from the animal tenders to the kitchen staff - were universally kind and helpful (even though we spoke virtually no Spanish). There were volunteers from all over the world when we were there, and we created relationships that will last for years. Despite dealing with challenging government bureaucracy, the owners have been able to maintain high standards of animal care. This is not a petting zoo, so don’t volunteer if you’re just looking to hug a sloth. The volunteers are there to ensure that the animals are being taken of. This involves feeding, watering, and making enrichment items. While you may get up close and personal with some of them, you aren’t allowed to touch the sloths (the common denominator for why most volunteers choose this center). The nominal cost of $35 per day includes a bunk, bedding, and 3 meals. Very reasonable. They also offer day excursions once volunteers have spent a week working (there is a fee for these). Volunteers who stay for several weeks are sometimes offered leadership positions with new volunteers. The system is well-maintained and consistent, so it was a great benefit to have other volunteers be so knowledgeable when we arrived. The pool was a nice diversion. You have to get creative with your free time, so bring your writing or sketch pad, your camera or book. Take a walk to the store that’s a mile down the road, create toys for the animal habitats or grab some paint and spruce things up around the Center. I’m thinking about taking a group of students to do service work here next year, and I’ve invited my college-age son to volunteer over his winter break. This is a memory I’ll always cherish, and I hope to return again soon.

- Constance Morris



Community was wonderful, the work was wonderful. If you love supporting a good cause and making sure the rescue animals are well cared for, this place is for you.THIS IS NOT A STAY-IN PETTING ZOO! If youre coming here with the intent to hold a sloth or a parrot, look elsewhere. Its not going to happen here. These animals have been rescued (many of them from horrible things) and they deserve our utmost respect. Go here with the intent to care for those who cannot care for themselves. Youll be richly rewarded ❤️

- Jayme



Great time, loved being so close to the animals!!

- Bentou Kaba



IN LOVE WITH THIS CENTER!! Much of the center is decorated with hand painted signs from volunteers, which adds a cute little flair to this place. You can also tell that the animals are cared for very well.

- Julia Skorb



Excellent place for the rescue and protection of animals.

- Jose Manuel Salazar Porras



This was such an amazing experience. You must be willing to work, its worth it.

- Lauren Lucky



J’ai passé plus d’un mois au rescue center en tant que bénévole, cest un lieu merveilleux et très enrichissant. Qui aide à sauver et soigner de nombreux animaux. Une expérience inoubliable.I spent more than a month at the rescue center as a volunteer, it is a wonderful and very rewarding. That helps to save and care for many animals. An unforgettable experience.

- Willy Weppe



Excellent!

- 7 Vidas Bellas Artes



I spent one week volunteering there. I went there to please my girlfriend, but I actually had a very nice stay. Animals and people working there were really interesting. The work seemed helpful and the living conditions are comfortable with good food and a pool ! I recommend this place...

- Entienne Rogier



Es como estar en familia......... Con un toque animal !!!Its like being in family ......... With an animal touch!

- Federico Chinchilla



Lovely people, fun and meaningful experience to be shared to contribute volunteering there. Highly recommended

- Caroline Kohl



It has been a wonderful experience, I met such inspiring people and was able to work hard to help the animals there everyday and learn so much about every single one of them!

- Elisa Leimer



Really amazing facility. The showers are cold and there is a lot of work to be done, but we go there to volunteer and help the animals so thats to be expected. Serita (the volunteer coordinator) is very sweet and always goes above and beyond to make sure the volunteers are comfortable and feel confident with the tasks they are assigned. This place doesnt receive any other help other than from the volunteers that go to help, and they are still so positive and work so hard to help the animals. If you get a chance to go and help please do. Also the food is really good lol

- Julio Quinones



Best place to work with rescue animals. Hard work, cold showers, and the best people you could ever hope to meet.

- Jamie Myer



Excelente y precioso lugarExcellent and beautiful place

- Steven Leiton Garcia



We were only able to spend a few days here, but are dying to go back. We had a great time, with great people, all of whom were dedicated to improving the lives of the animals. Everyone is split into teams, and each team is responsible for a set of tasks for the morning and a different set of tasks for the afternoon. The tasks range from preparing the food for the animals, to delivering to their cages, to working on various projects around the grounds. The tasks for each team rotate daily. On top of these tasks the volunteers are encouraged to come up with and act on their ideas for improving the lives of the animals. Some examples of what we saw and/or helped with were making a mud pit for the pigs, a grass bed for the goat, toys for the kinkajou or howler monkeys, and weaving palm leaves to give shade for the sloth enclosures.

- Andrew Fisher



Such a beautiful place where you can tell they really care about the animals. We werent sure about the minimum commitment of one week, but could definitely have stayed longer

- Zoe Lehner



Absolutely amazing place. Ive just got back from 3 weeks working with them and enjoyed every second of it. They are very dedicated to the animals in their care and show nothing but love and compassion for them all. They have just moved to a new premises and it is stunning. Lots of big enclosures for the animals and plenty of space for voulenteers to explore. Would highly recommend this place and plan on visiting agin in the very near future.

- Bil Mcc