LisaRB

I was hoping for some input on whether this was a worthwhile destination. My daughter really wants to go, but some of the reviews I read sounded depressing.

colibri

If you are speaking of the one near Cahuita on the Caribbean side, it is definitely worthwhile. We went last fall, enjoyed a boat ride to spot several sloths that had been released, liked seeing the film about the rehab and loved the babies in the nursery - great food there, too!

A recent review of one on the Pacific side brought up several suggestions for improvement so that may be the one you are thinking about visiting.

hipvirgochick

I agree. Definitely worthwhile. The animals are well taken care of and the sad part is just hearing the stories of how they got there but the facilities and staff ate great. The Jaguar Rescue center is also wonderful. Do both if you can!

LisaRB

Where is the jaguar rescue?

Mohet

It's a unique effort by the authorities and though it is specifically for sloths. It offers few other species og flora and fauna. I found their official website.

http://www.slothrescue.org/

hsmithcr

It is most definitely not "a unique effort by the authorities" but a project that was begun and continues to be run by private individuals. If you read the website, you will understand the history.

The official name is Aviaros del Caribe and it is a truly wonderful place to visit. And learn about sloths!

hsmithcr

As for jaguar rescue, there is one near Canas - Las Pumas - that has jaguar and other big cats that have been rescued. It is a few kilometers north of Canas on the InterAmerican Highway.

hipvirgochick

The name "Jaguar Rescue Center" can be a little misleading in that it doesn't necessarily mean there will be Jaguars or even other big cats there. You may be lucky to see them or other small cats like Ocelots and Margays. What the do have though are many, many species of snakes, some monkeys (primarily Howlers and Capuchins) and sloths (both 2-toed and 3-toed). The owner and volunteers do an excellent presentation of the wildlife they have.

hsmithcr

hip - where is the Jaguar Rescue Center that you are talking about?

hipvirgochick

HS - the one I mention is near Playa Chiquita which would be accessible to the OP since it sounds like they will be in that area. I think you are referring to Las Pumas but correct me if I'm wrong.

hsmithcr

OK, thanks. Wasn't aware that there was one in that area. Yes, Las Pumas.

tully

Just saw an article about the sanctuary at ticotimes.net -- http://www.ticotimes.net/Weekend/Tra...ctober-15-2010

shillmac

We haven't been to the one in Canas although it has been there for several years. Jaguar Rescue in Puerto Viejo was awesome, as hip says, very well managed.