Founded in 2008, the Jaguar Rescue Center (JRC) is a rescue and rehabilitation facility for native Costa Rican wildlife, operating with a mission of compassion and scientific excellence. Each year, the center cares for hundreds of animals suffering from injury, illness, illegal trade, habitat loss, or orphaning. Visitors engage with the stories and conservation journeys of sloths, howler monkeys, macaws, snakes, ocelots, and more, all cared for by a devoted international team of biologists, veterinarians, and volunteers. The center also offers educational outreach and number of structured public and private tours, making it one of the top family wildlife attractions in Costa Rica.
History of Jaguar Rescue Center
The center was established by biologist couple Encar García and Sandro Alviani, who responded to the need for wildlife rescue in Limón Province, a region of immense biodiversity but also heightened risks from deforestation, road accidents, the illegal pet trade, and electrocution on power lines. Since 2008, the JRC has rescued hundreds of animals each year; more than 40% are successfully rehabilitated and returned to the wild, while those unable to survive receive lifelong care in sanctuary enclosures. The center operates independently, sustained by tours, donations, and international volunteers, and works closely with local communities on environmental education.
Attractions at Jaguar Rescue Center
Wildlife Enclosures: Thoughtfully designed, naturalistic habitats for sloths, monkeys, wild cats (ocelots, margays), deer, reptiles (iguanas, caimans), turtles, birds (macaws, toucans), and more. Each enclosure aims to mimic the animal’s natural environment and support rehabilitation.
Public and Private Tours: Guided by passionate staff and volunteers, tours explain the stories of the center’s residents, the threats to Costa Rica’s wildlife, and the rehabilitation process. Guests often witness feeding, play, and enrichment activities.
Veterinary Hospital: A modern onsite hospital treats everything from trauma and fractures to illness, infection, or orphan care. The team uses diagnostic tools, surgeries, and round-the-clock monitoring for wildlife in need.
Sanctuary: Permanent home to non-releasable animals, where guests can observe species up close in a responsible, non-exploitative environment.
La Ceiba Release Station: A 49-hectare primary forest site inside the Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge where animals are gradually reintroduced to the wild under camera and ranger supervision.
Educational Outreach: Environmental education programs for local schools and workshops for the community are a core part of the center’s work.
Things to Do at Jaguar Rescue Center
Take a Guided Tour: Join a public (9:30 or 11:30 AM) or private (2 PM) tour (1.5–2 hours) to meet the animals, hear their stories, and learn about wildlife threats and conservation.
Learn About Animal Rehabilitation: Watch sloths climbing, monkeys playing, and birds feeding—all while understanding their path to recovery.
Volunteer or Donate: The center runs structured volunteering programs and opportunities for guests who want a deeper hands-on experience.
Observe Veterinary Work (select tours): Occasionally tours feature peeks into the rehabilitation and recovery facilities.
Support Conservation: Purchases from the onsite café and gift shop, or donations, sustain the center’s crucial work.
Jaguar Rescue Center – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Open to the public every day, with tours starting at 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM (public), and 2:00 PM (private).
Tour duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Arrive 15–30 minutes early for check-in.
How Long to Spend at Jaguar Rescue Center
Plan for 2 hours for a public tour; more if you wish to browse the gift shop or enjoy refreshments at the onsite café.
How to Get There
By Car: Located about 5 km south of Puerto Viejo on Route 256, facing Playa Cocles; ample parking available.
By Bus: Local buses (Puerto Viejo–Manzanillo) stop near the entrance—ask the driver for “Jaguar Rescue Center.”
Taxi/Bike: Taxis and rental bikes are widely available in Puerto Viejo.
No train or boat service is available directly.
Eateries Nearby Jaguar Rescue Center
Artisan and Caribbean cuisine can be enjoyed nearby and in Puerto Viejo:
| Name | Description | Kid-Friendly |
|---|---|---|
| Maxi’s Restaurant | Iconic Caribbean flavors, seafood, and lively locale | Yes |
| Bread & Chocolate | Fresh bakery and organic café | Yes |
| La Nena | Traditional Costa Rican and Caribbean plates | Yes |
| Koki Beach | Beachfront international and Afro-Caribbean | Yes |
| Restaurante Johanna | Family-run, affordable, local favorites | Yes |
| De Gustibus Bakery | Artisan pastries and coffee | Yes |
Other Attractions Nearby Jaguar Rescue Center
Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Playa Negra: Stunning local beaches for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Cahuita National Park: Hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife along rainforest and coral reefs.
Refugio Nacional Gandoca-Manzanillo: Proximity to the release station makes this a great complementary nature stop.
Bribri Indigenous Reserve: Cultural immersion and chocolate tours.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Lively Caribbean town with markets, music, and local culture.
The Jaguar Rescue Center in Costa Rica is a renowned wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, sick, or orphaned animals back into their natural habitats. Often referred to as the Jaguar Center Rescue, this sanctuary provides care for a wide range of species, including monkeys, sloths, wild cats, and exotic birds.
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the center’s conservation efforts and witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity. The Jaguar Rescue not only plays a vital role in wildlife conservation but also offers an educational experience that inspires people to value and protect nature. For animal lovers and eco-tourists, the Jaguar Rescue Center is a must-visit destination on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.