Attraction Guide: Jaguar Rescue Center, Manzanillo, Costa Rica

Jaguar Rescue Center Guide

Saving Wildlife, One Paw at a Time: The Jaguar Rescue Center Guide

The Jaguar Rescue Center, despite its name, is not just about jaguars! It's a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, orphaned, and confiscated animals in the South Caribbean region of Costa Rica. While jaguars occasionally pass through, the center primarily focuses on sloths, monkeys, birds, reptiles, and other local wildlife. It's a vital organization working to protect the biodiversity of this incredible ecosystem. Founded in 2008 by Encar Garcia and Sandro Alviani, the Jaguar Rescue Center was born out of a need to address the growing number of animals affected by deforestation, electrocution, car accidents, and illegal pet trade. The center provides medical care, food, and shelter to these animals, with the ultimate goal of returning them to their natural habitat whenever possible. They also play a crucial role in educating the public about wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. A visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center is an enriching and educational experience. You can take a guided tour to learn about the animals in their care, their individual stories, and the challenges they face. You'll see sloths hanging from trees, monkeys playing in their enclosures, and a variety of colorful birds. The center also offers volunteer opportunities for those who want to get more involved in their conservation efforts. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the center itself, supporting local restaurants in the nearby town of Puerto Viejo helps contribute to the local economy and sustainable tourism.