Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica
Limón
The Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica is a privately owned animal rescue center located near Cahuita in Limón province. Founded in 1997 by Judy Avey-Arroyo and Luis Arroyo, it is the country's first sloth-only rescue facility, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, research, and release of injured or orphaned sloths. The Sanctuary provides an important refuge for sloths and offers educational tours to the public, allowing visitors to observe these slow-moving creatures in a protected environment. The Sanctuary gained wider recognition through the 2013 Animal Planet series "Meet the Sloths," which documented the lives of its residents. Visitors can participate in guided tours such as the Buttercup Tour and the more in-depth Insider’s Tour, both emphasizing conservation and education without direct contact with the animals, in compliance with wildlife regulations. The Sanctuary also operates a nursery and rescue center, contributing significantly to sloth conservation efforts in Costa Rica. Its unique focus on sloths and commitment to animal welfare make it a special destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservation supporters.
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Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and more active animals. Book tours in advance, especially the popular Insider’s Tour, to secure your spot. Note that touching sloths is prohibited to protect their welfare. Children under 12 must be accompanied by adults. Parking is available but visitors are advised to lock valuables and no pets are allowed on site except service animals. Group discounts are available for larger parties.
Interesting facts
- •The Sanctuary was the first sloth-only rescue center in Costa Rica, officially recognized in 1997.
- •Buttercup, the first hand-reared sloth at the Sanctuary, lived there until her death in 2019.
- •The Sanctuary was featured in the 2013 Animal Planet series "Meet the Sloths", showcasing its conservation efforts.
- •Wildlife regulations strictly prohibit touching sloths during tours to ensure their safety and well-being.
History
The Sanctuary was founded after the 1991 Limón earthquake disrupted the owners' previous birding tourism business.
In 1992, the Arroyos began hand-rearing an orphaned baby three-toed sloth named Buttercup, which sparked their dedication to sloth care.
Officially recognized as a rescue center in 1997, it became Costa Rica's first facility solely dedicated to sloths.
Over the years, it has expanded its role in rescue, rehabilitation, and research, gaining international attention through media exposure such as the 2013 Animal Planet series.
Despite some controversies in 2016 regarding animal treatment allegations, the Sanctuary remains a key institution in Costa Rican wildlife conservation.
Place Guide
Buttercup Tour
A one-hour guided tour introducing visitors to the Sanctuary's resident sloths in their protective enclosures, focusing on education and conservation.
Insider’s Tour
A two-hour immersive experience including the Buttercup Tour plus behind-the-scenes access to the nursery and rescue areas, sharing detailed rescue stories and conservation insights.
Contact
Phone: 6450 0312