Costa Rica is world-famous for its dedication to wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and environmental protection. With nearly 25% of its land protected as national parks and wildlife refuges, this small Central American country has become a global leader in eco-tourism and animal preservation. One of the most meaningful and inspiring places to experience this commitment firsthand is Projecto Asis Animal Rescue Center, a remarkable wildlife rehabilitation facility located near the Arenal region and the small rural town of La Fortuna.
Projecto Asis is not a zoo, and it is not an entertainment attraction. It is a working wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center whose primary mission is to help injured, orphaned, and confiscated wild animals recover and—whenever possible—return to their natural habitat. A visit to Projecto Asis offers travelers a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s wildlife challenges, conservation efforts, and the delicate balance between humans and nature.
Location and Natural Setting
Projecto Asis is located in the lush northern lowlands of Costa Rica, not far from the Arenal Volcano area, one of the country’s most popular eco-tourism destinations. The rescue center is surrounded by tropical forest, farmland, and rolling hills, creating an ideal environment for rehabilitating native wildlife.
The setting itself is peaceful and beautiful. Tall trees provide shade, tropical plants line the walking paths, and the sounds of birds, insects, and rustling leaves fill the air. The grounds are well maintained, with clearly marked trails that make it easy for visitors to walk through the property while observing animals in a respectful and controlled way.
Unlike large tourist attractions, Projecto Asis feels intimate and personal. Visitors are not rushed, and the atmosphere encourages learning, reflection, and appreciation for the animals and the people who care for them.
Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
Visitors can explore Projecto Asis either independently or by booking a guided tour through a local tour operator with offices in nearby towns such as La Fortuna. While it is possible to walk the grounds on your own, a guided tour is highly recommended, as the knowledgeable guides provide valuable context, stories, and insights that bring the experience to life.
Our guide was excellent—passionate, well-informed, and deeply committed to wildlife conservation. She explained the background of many of the animals, how they arrived at the center, and the challenges involved in rehabilitating them.
During our visit, we encountered a wide variety of rescued animals, each with a unique and often heartbreaking story.
Animals You May See at Projecto Asis
Monkeys
One of the highlights of our visit was seeing white-faced capuchin monkeys, one of Costa Rica’s most intelligent and expressive primates. Many of the monkeys at Projecto Asis were rescued from the illegal pet trade or had been injured due to habitat loss or electrical lines.
Some monkeys are able to be rehabilitated and released back into the wild, while others—due to permanent injuries or human imprinting—must remain under care for the rest of their lives.
Baby Deer
One particularly moving encounter was with a baby deer that had lost part of its foot, likely due to a snare or human-related accident. The staff explained the extensive care required to keep the deer comfortable and healthy, and how difficult it can be for animals with such injuries to survive in the wild.
Raccoons
We also met a wounded pet raccoon that had been kept illegally as a household pet before being surrendered. The raccoon was surprisingly gentle and allowed visitors to hold him under close supervision. This experience highlighted both the intelligence of raccoons and the problems caused when wild animals are raised in captivity.
Wild Pigs
A group of young wild pigs (peccaries) had been rescued after their mother was killed. These animals were being raised together to maintain natural social bonds, which increases their chances of eventual release.
Birds
Birdlife is abundant at Projecto Asis. Several species of birds call the center home, including green parrots, which are often victims of illegal wildlife trafficking. There is also a large family of ducks and other native birds that thrive in the center’s natural environment.
Throughout the property, colorful birds can be seen perched in trees, flying overhead, or resting near water sources.
Education and Conservation Mission
What truly sets Projecto Asis apart is its strong focus on education and awareness. Every animal has a story, and these stories are used to teach visitors about conservation issues such as:
- Illegal wildlife trafficking
- Habitat destruction
- Human-animal conflict
- The impact of keeping wild animals as pets
Visitors leave with a much deeper understanding of why wildlife rescue centers are necessary and how individual actions—such as responsible tourism and supporting conservation efforts—can make a difference.
The center also works closely with Costa Rican authorities to care for animals confiscated from illegal situations, emphasizing rehabilitation rather than display.
Volunteer Program at Projecto Asis
One of the most impressive aspects of Projecto Asis is its Volunteer Center, which invites people from around the world to participate in ecological and social volunteer programs.
During our visit, we met several college students from the United States who were participating in a one-month volunteer program. These students were studying and practicing Spanish while also assisting with daily tasks at the rescue center.
Volunteer Responsibilities
Volunteers may help with:
- Animal feeding and enclosure cleaning
- Food preparation for animals
- Maintenance of trails and facilities
- Environmental education activities
- Supporting staff with rehabilitation work
This hands-on experience allows volunteers to gain real-world knowledge about wildlife conservation while making a meaningful contribution.
A Cultural and Educational Exchange
In addition to wildlife work, volunteers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Costa Rican culture. Living and working alongside local staff provides a unique cultural exchange that goes far beyond typical tourism.
For students, Projecto Asis offers a rare opportunity to combine language learning, conservation work, and international experience in one program. Many volunteers describe their time at the center as life-changing.
Why Projecto Asis Is Important
Wildlife rescue centers like Projecto Asis play a critical role in Costa Rica’s conservation strategy. As development expands and human populations grow, wildlife faces increasing threats. Centers like Asis serve as a safety net for animals that would otherwise have little chance of survival.
By focusing on rehabilitation and release whenever possible, Projecto Asis supports healthy ecosystems and preserves biodiversity for future generations.
Who Should Visit Projecto Asis
Projecto Asis is ideal for:
- Nature lovers
- Families with older children
- Students and educators
- Eco-tourists
- Anyone interested in conservation and animal welfare
It is not a typical tourist attraction, but rather a meaningful and educational experience that encourages empathy, respect, and responsibility.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Projecto Asis Animal Rescue Center Costa Rica is both inspiring and humbling. It reminds us of the incredible diversity of life in Costa Rica—and of our responsibility to protect it. Whether you come for a guided tour or commit to volunteering, Projecto Asis offers a powerful connection to nature and a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation.
In a country already known for its environmental leadership, Projecto Asis stands out as a shining example of compassion, education, and hope for Costa Rica’s wild animals.
If you are planning a trip to the Arenal region or simply want an experience that goes beyond beaches and adventure tours, Projecto Asis should be at the top of your list.