NATUWA Wildlife Sanctuary

Monteverde Costa Rica

Monteverde's Most Stunning Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover a Hidden Treasure Just Minutes Away from Santa Elena in Monteverde!

Experience the Wonders of Nature at Natuwa Sanctuary in Monteverde! Join us for an unforgettable adventure at Natuwa Sanctuary, nestled in the stunning Monteverde area. This special guided tour invites you to explore the amazing variety of wildlife in Costa Rica. You’ll have the chance to see some of the most famous animals in the region up close, making it a perfect outing for nature lovers of all ages!

Hours and Entrance Fees

Tours run Monday through Sunday at the following times: 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m.

The entrance fee includes only the guided tour. We do not offer food services, but our gift store supports the feeding of the animals in the sanctuary.

Connect with the Wildlife:

  • Sloth Bears: Marvel at these peaceful tree dwellers as you learn about their life in the cloud forests.
  • Jaguars: Immerse yourself in the stories and legends surrounding this majestic feline, symbol of power and mystery.
  • Tapirs: Get up close and personal with these forest guardians and discover their vital role in the ecosystem. But that’s not all.

Each step on this guided tour reveals hidden stories of Monteverde and its inhabitants, both human and animal, giving you a unique insight into the relationship between nature and the local community.

Natuwa Tapir

Why Choose NATUWA Sanctuary Monteverde?

Biodiversity

Natuwa Sanctuary in Monteverde is a vital refuge for Costa Rica’s rescued wildlife, offering visitors a unique chance to observe native animals up close while supporting conservation. Located near the rich biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the sanctuary is home to species such as jaguars, macaws, tapirs, spider monkeys, and sloths. Surrounded by one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet, Natuwa plays a key role in protecting Costa Rica’s wildlife and educating the public about the importance of rainforest conservation.

Commitment to Conservation

Since its founding, Natuwa Sanctuary in Monteverde has become a leading example of wildlife rescue and conservation in Costa Rica. Dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating animals affected by habitat loss, illegal trafficking, and other threats, Natuwa supports long-term environmental sustainability. While not as large as traditional forest reserves, it plays a vital role in Costa Rica’s conservation efforts by providing a safe haven for native species and educating the public about responsible wildlife care.

Expert Guides

At Natuwa Sanctuary in Monteverde, experienced and passionate guides make your visit truly unforgettable. Their in-depth knowledge of Costa Rica’s native wildlife, including scarlet macaws, sloths, jaguars, and monkeys, adds depth to every encounter. These friendly experts share powerful stories of rescue and rehabilitation, turning your visit into an educational and meaningful experience that supports conservation and animal welfare.

Reviews

What Nature Lovers Say

Book Your NATUWA Sanctury Monteverde Experience Today!

Don’t miss the chance to experience Natuwa Sanctuary in Monteverde, where unforgettable wildlife encounters and conservation come together. Join a guided tour to see rescued animals like toucans, monkeys, and jaguars, and learn how the sanctuary helps protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity. It’s a meaningful way to connect with nature and support ethical tourism. Book your tour now or explore more about what makes Natuwa Sanctuary one of Monteverde’s most impactful and inspiring destinations.

Natuwa Sloth
FROM

$30

2 HOURS

Natuwa Sanctuary Monteverde Tour

  • All ages 
  • Monteverde Sanctuary
  • 8:00 AM | 9:30 AM | 11:00 AM | 1:00 AM | 2:30 AM

 

The Ecotourism Program developed by NATUWA, consists of a guided hike in which they explore the theme of “Wild animals keep the forests healthy and thus collaborate with the health of human beings” and the importance of not extracting animals from the ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary in Monteverde is recognized for rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals impacted by habitat loss, illegal captivity, and other human activities. It offers a safe, long-term home for species that cannot return to the wild and promotes wildlife conservation through educational programs focused on protecting Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.

The guided tour at Natuwa Monteverde Wildlife Sanctuary takes about 2 hours. During the walk, visitors follow ecological trails, observe rescued animals like scarlet macaws, sloths, and monkeys, and learn about their rehabilitation and the sanctuary’s conservation mission.

Tours at Natuwa Monteverde are kept small to ensure a personalized and immersive experience. Group sizes are limited, allowing visitors to better connect with the animals and guides while supporting the sanctuary’s peaceful environment.

 Yes, Monteverde is home to the two-fingered sloth, the only species adapted to its cooler, cloud forest climate. These sloths are mostly nocturnal and elusive, making daytime sightings rare. For your best chance to spot one, consider joining a guided tour, such as Natuwa Sanctuary Monteverde

 Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rescued jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, spider monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, and a variety of exotic birds. Visitors can see scarlet macaws, great green macaws, blue-and-yellow macaws, sun conures, and other native species in a protected, natural setting.