Meet Esther: Farming, Bingo & 10 Years of Welcoming Volunteers

My name is Ester. I’ve been helping Proyecto ASIS by hosting volunteers since 2015, and it’s a pleasure to welcome whoever comes my way. I live here in El Futuro — it’s a very beautiful, peaceful place. I assure you, you’re going to love it. Living with me at home are Lucas, my grandson, and yours truly. And just 50 meters away lives my daughter Kely. It will be my pleasure to have you.

I have a little farm and I love working in agriculture. Our most dedicated crop is cilantro — I sell it right here in the community and we also supply the national market.

I love it — my favorite hobby is bingo, and cooking… well, maybe I’m not the best cook, but I love seeing people happy with what I make. I always try my best.

Adriana (interviewer): And in bingo, what’s the best part?

Ester: Winning a prize! Don’t even doubt it!

Mi nombre es Ester. Le ayudo a Proyecto ASIS recibiendo voluntarios desde el 2015, y es un gusto recibir a quien me llegue. Yo vivo aquí en El Futuro, es un lugar muy bonito y tranquilo. Les aseguro que van a disfrutar. En mi casa vive Lucas, mi nieto, y esta servidora. Y a 50 metros de mi casa está mi hija Kely. Para mí será un gusto atenderles.

Tengo una pequeña granjita y me gusta trabajar la agricultura. El producto más trabajado es el culantro, que yo lo vendo aquí en el lugar donde resido y también lo vendemos al mercado nacional.

Me encanta — mi hobbie preferido es el bingo, y la cocinada… pues tal vez no soy tan buena, pero me gusta que las personas queden contentas con lo que cocino. Procuro hacerlo bien.

Adriana (entrevistadora): ¿Y en el bingo, la mejor parte?

Ester: ¡Ganarse un premio! ¡Ni lo dude!

Meet Rosy & Laura: Hosting Volunteers with Heart Since 2009

Meet Rosy & Laura: Hosting Volunteers with Heart Since 2009

Rosy and Laura have been welcoming Proyecto ASIS volunteers into their home in La Fortuna, Costa Rica since 2009. A warm mother-daughter team, they’ve hosted guests from all over the world — from toddlers to grandparents — sharing morning sunrises, afternoon coffee, card games, and the company of Tommy, their beloved 15-year-old dog. We sat down with them to hear what over a decade of open doors really means to their family.

Hola, soy Rosy. Nosotros somos una familia que hospedamos turistas desde el 2009. ¡Aquí serán bienvenidos!

Hola, mi nombre es Laura. Soy la menor de los 3 hijos de Rosy y Pablo. ¡Este es Tommy, la mascotita que tiene 15 años de estar con nosotros! Mi hermano mayor se llama Jorge, está casado y tiene 34 años. Luego le sigue Óscar, que vive acá con nosotros y tiene 33 años. Y yo, que tengo 30.

¡Bueno, Laura y Rosy! Cuéntennos: ¿qué es lo que más les ha gustado de hospedar voluntarios?

Rosy: Bueno, de mi parte, lo que más me ha gustado es compartir muchas culturas con diferentes personas, desde los 3 añitos hasta los 89. ¡Me ha encantado eso! Y compartir todos los días el amanecer, y también el cafecito de la tarde — nos encanta para charlar.

Laura: A mí también me gusta mucho compartir cuando vienen con niños, uno se siente muy identificado. Y como decía mi mamá, conocer culturas, compartir momentos — hasta pintando uñas y jugando cartas. ¡Muy bonito!

Interested in staying with a local family during your volunteer experience? Learn more about our homestay program. 👉 View Homestay Options

📖 Also meet Carmen, another one of our beloved homestay hosts → Meet Carmen

Kinkajou

Kinkajou: The Rainforest’s Nocturnal Acrobat

Discover everything you need to know about the elusive Kinkajou — from its biology and distribution to conservation efforts to protect this curious creature.

📛 Other Common Names & Taxonomy

The Kinkajou (Potos flavus) is also known by other names such as:

  • Honey bear
  • Sugar bear
  • Nightwalker
  • In Spanish: Martilla, Martucha or Mono de miel.

Taxonomic Classification:

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Mammalia
  • Order: Carnivora
  • Family: Procyonidae (same family as raccoons)
  • Genus: Potos
  • Species: P. flavus

🦴 Anatomical Characteristics

Kinkajous are known for their:

  • Prehensile tail – used like a fifth limb to grip branches
  • Large eyes – adapted for nocturnal vision
  • Flexible spine and joints – for agile movement in the trees
  • Long tongue (up to 5 inches) – used to lick nectar and fruit
  • Short, soft fur – usually golden or brownish in color

Despite their bear-like appearance, they are more closely related to raccoons.

🗺️ Geographical Distribution

Kinkajous are found across:

  • Central America and South America, from southern Mexico to Brazil
  • Primary habitats include tropical rainforests, lowland forests, and cloud forests

They are arboreal (tree-dwelling) and are rarely seen on the ground.

🌿 Biology and Ecology

Kinkajous are:

  • Nocturnal – active at night
  • Omnivorous – diet includes fruit (especially figs), nectar, insects, and small vertebrates
  • Important pollinators, as they feed on nectar and transfer pollen between flowers

Their role in the ecosystem is similar to bats and bees, making them key to rainforest health.

🍼 Reproductive Cycle

  • Breeding can occur year-round in warm climates.
  • Gestation: ~112–120 days
  • Typically give birth to one offspring (occasionally two)
  • Babies are born blind and fully dependent on the mother for the first two months

Kinkajous reach sexual maturity at about 18 months.

📉 Population Trend

While exact population numbers are hard to determine due to their nocturnal and secretive nature, populations are considered stable in most areas but are showing declining trends in regions affected by deforestation and hunting.

🛡️ Conservation Status

According to the IUCN Red List, the Kinkajou is currently classified as:

Least Concern (LC)

However, this does not mean they are free from threats.

⚠️ Threats to Species Survival

The main threats to the Kinkajou include:

  • Habitat loss due to deforestation for agriculture and development
  • Illegal wildlife trade (sometimes captured for the exotic pet market)
  • Hunting – occasionally hunted for fur or meat
  • Road mortality – as development encroaches on natural habitats

The Kinkajou is a vital part of tropical ecosystems and a fascinating example of nature’s adaptation and beauty. Protecting its forest habitat is essential not only for its survival but also for the health of biodiversity in the region.

Google Reviews and Photos from our visitors.

Consider becoming a Donor

Monthly Donation

$10

$25

$50

$75

Enter your amount

Costa Rica Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer

Google Reviews and Photos from our visitors.

Costa Rica Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer – A Unique Conservation Experience

Looking for an unforgettable wildlife volunteer opportunity in Costa Rica? At Proyecto Asis, we offer a Wildlife Tour + Volunteer Program that combines education, conservation, and hands-on animal care—perfect for travelers who want to make a difference.

Join us for an ethical, educational, and interactive experience where you’ll learn about rescued wildlife, prepare enrichment meals, and support rehabilitation efforts in the heart of La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

👉 Book Your Wildlife Volunteer Tour Now!

Why Choose Our Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer Program?

1. Educational Wildlife Tour with Expert Guides

  • Learn about Costa Rican wildlife conservation from passionate naturalist guides.
  • Hear the stories of rescued animals—how they arrived and their rehabilitation journey.
  • Discover why conservation is crucial for species like monkeys, toucans, and sloths.

2. Hands-On Volunteering Experience

  • Prepare diets for animals, understanding the role of nutrition in rehabilitation.
  • Create enrichment toys to stimulate natural behaviors.
  • Observe feeding sessions (conducted by staff for safety).

3. Ethical & Family-Friendly

  • No animal exploitation—our focus is rescue, rehab, and release.
  • Great for families, solo travelers, and animal lovers of all ages.
  • Small groups ensure a personalized experience.

4. Sustainable Tourism

  • Your visit directly supports wildlife rescue efforts.
  • Certified ethical sanctuary—no forced interactions.
  • “Pack for a Purpose” option to donate needed supplies.

5. Unforgettable Memories

  • Meet friendly monkeys, colorful birds, and (if lucky) wild sloths!
  • Enjoy a coffee break with local treats.
  • Take home a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation.

What’s Included in the Wildlife Volunteer Tour?

✅ Guided educational tour (English or Spanish)
✅ Volunteer activity: Food prep & enrichment toy making
✅ Coffee break with local snacks
✅ All materials & expert guidance
✅ Duration: ~2.5 hours
✅ Price$60 USD (Kids 5-9: $35 USD)

📅 Schedule: Monday to Saturday at 8:30 AM & 1:30 PM
📍 LocationProyecto Asis, La Fortuna (Near Arenal Volcano)

🔗 Reserve Your Spot Now!

How to Book Your Wildlife Volunteer Experience

  1. Choose your date & time (8:30 AM or 1:30 PM).
  2. Select the volunteer add-on for the full experience.
  3. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
  4. Enjoy an unforgettable day with Costa Rica’s wildlife!

⚠️ Important Notes:

  • Cancellation policy: Full refund if canceled 72+ hours in advance.
  • Language: Tours are in English or Spanish (specify when booking).
  • No mixed groups—private language tours available.

Make a Difference While Traveling in Costa Rica

If you’re searching for a meaningful wildlife volunteer opportunity in Costa Rica, Proyecto Asis offers the perfect blend of education, conservation, and hands-on help.

🌿 Support ethical wildlife rescue
🦥 Meet amazing animals & learn their stories
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families & animal lovers

📢 Limited spots available—book now!
👉 Reserve Your Wildlife Volunteer Tour

Proyecto Asis isn’t just a tour—it’s a chance to contribute to wildlife conservation while creating lifelong memories. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or eco-conscious adventurer, this experience is a must-do in Costa Rica.

Join us and help protect Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife! 🐒🌿

Consider becoming a Donor

Monthly Donation

$10

$25

$50

$75

Enter your amount

White Nosed Coati

White-Nosed Coati (Nasua narica) 🐾

The White-Nosed Coati (Nasua narica) is a charismatic, social mammal found across the Americas. Known for its ringed tail, long snout, and curious nature, this species plays a vital role in forest ecosystems. In this guide, we’ll explore its taxonomy, anatomy, habitat, behavior, reproduction, and conservation status—helping you understand why this animal deserves attention and protection.


Other Common Names & Taxonomy

  • Scientific NameNasua narica
  • Common Names:
    • White-nosed coati
    • Pizote (Central America)
    • Antoon (Mexico)
    • Coatimundi (often misused—technically refers to solitary males)
  • Family: Procyonidae (Raccoon family)
  • GenusNasua (True coatis)
  • Related Species:
    • South American coati (Nasua nasua)
    • Mountain coati (Nasuella olivacea)

Anatomical Characteristics

Size & Appearance

  • Length: 80–130 cm (31–51 in), including tail
  • Weight: 3–6 kg (6.6–13.2 lbs)
  • Distinctive Features:
    • White muzzle (namesake feature)
    • Long, flexible snout for foraging
    • Ringed tail (used for balance and signaling)
    • Sharp claws for climbing

Coloration

  • Body: Reddish-brown to dark brown
  • Underbelly: Lighter, cream-colored
  • Face: Black mask with white markings

Geographical Distribution 🌎

Native Range

  • North America: Southern Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas (USA) to Mexico
  • Central America: Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama
  • South America: Northern Colombia and Venezuela

Preferred Habitats

  • Tropical & subtropical forests
  • Dry scrublands (in northern range)
  • Cloud forests (high-altitude regions)

Biology and Ecology 🌿

Diet & Foraging

  • Omnivorous: Eats fruits, insects, small vertebrates, eggs, and carrion
  • Foraging Behavior:
    • Uses snout to dig for insects
    • Social foragers (females and young form bands)

Behavior

  • Highly social (females live in groups of 4–30, called “bands”)
  • Males solitary (except during mating season)
  • Diurnal (active during the day)
  • Excellent climbers (sleep in trees to avoid predators)

Reproductive Cycle 🐣

  • Breeding Season: January–March
  • Gestation: ~77 days
  • Litter Size: 2–7 kits
  • Nesting: Females build tree nests for birth
  • Weaning: Kits depend on mother for ~4 months

Population Trend & Conservation Status 📊

  • IUCN StatusLeast Concern (but declining in some regions)
  • Population TrendStable in protected areas, declining due to habitat loss

Threats to Survival

  1. Habitat Destruction (deforestation for agriculture)
  2. Hunting & Poaching (for meat or pet trade)
  3. Road Mortality (vehicle collisions)
  4. Climate Change (alters food availability)

How to Help Protect White-Nosed Coatis 🛡️

✔ Support rainforest conservation (e.g., Rainforest Trust)
✔ Avoid feeding wild coatis (disrupts natural behavior)
✔ Drive carefully in coati habitats
✔ Report illegal wildlife trade


The White-Nosed Coati is a keystone species, aiding seed dispersal and pest control. While not yet endangered, habitat loss and human conflict threaten its future. By spreading awareness, we can help ensure its survival.

Google Reviews and Photos from our visitors.

Consider becoming a Donor

Monthly Donation

$10

$25

$50

$75

Enter your amount

Sloth Park La Fortuna

Sloth Sanctuary

Sloth Sanctuary Tour La Fortuna Costa Rica – Proyecto Asis

1.5 hrs · $35 adults · $25 kids

Wildlife Tour

Geoffroy's Spider Monkey Maggie Asis Costa Rica Wildlife and Sloth Sanctuary

1.5 hrs · $40 adults · $25 kids

Wildlife+Volunteer

Wildlife Tour and Volunteer Costa Rica

2.5 hrs · $60 adults · $35 kids

Costa Rica is famous for its incredible biodiversity, and nothing captures its magic quite like encountering wild sloths in their natural habitat. At Asis Sloth Sanctuary La Fortuna, we offer the most authentic, ethical, and educational sloth-watching experience in the region. Located just minutes from downtown La Fortuna, our guided tours provide unforgettable wildlife encounters while promoting responsible ecotourism and conservation.

Why Our Sloth Sanctuary Tour Stands Out

Unparalleled Sloth-Sighting Success Rate

With over two decades of experience, our trained guides know exactly where and how to find sloths in the dense rainforest. We focus on observing sloths in the wild—where they belong.

Small-Group, Eco-Conscious Tours

To minimize environmental impact and maximize your experience, we keep groups small (12 people max). This ensures:
✔️ Minimal disturbance to wildlife
✔️ Personalized attention from your guide
✔️ Better photo opportunities without crowds

Expert Guides with Scientific Knowledge

Our guides aren’t just tour leaders—they’re wildlife experts who share fascinating insights about:
🔹 Sloth behavior, diet, and survival adaptations
🔹 Their role in Costa Rica’s rainforest ecosystem
🔹 Ongoing conservation efforts to protect them

A Thriving Rainforest Sanctuary

The tour takes place in a private nature reserve teeming with wildlife.

The easy, well-maintained trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Tour Information & Booking

📍 Location: Asis Costa Rica Wildlife and Sloth Sanctuary
⏰ Tour Times: 8:30 AM, 10:30AM (best for wildlife activity) & 1:30 PM daily
⏳ Duration: 1.5 hours of immersive sloth-watching
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Kids under 5 tour for free!
💰 Price: adults $35, kids 5 to 9 $25 (excellent value for a premium experience)

🔗 Secure Your Spot Today!
👉 Book Now

Why Asis Sloth Sanctuary La Fortuna Should Be on Your Costa Rica Itinerary

✔️ Ethical & Sustainable – No touching, feeding, or disrupting the animals
✔️ Educational & Fun – Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers
✔️ Convenient Location – Easy to combine with other La Fortuna adventures
✔️ 5-Star Rated – Consistently praised for expert guides and incredible sightings

Consider becoming a Donor

Frequently asked questions — Sloth Park La Fortuna

Is Proyecto Asis a sloth park or a sloth sanctuary?
Both — and more. Proyecto Asis operates as a licensed wildlife rescue center and sloth sanctuary near La Fortuna. It is commonly referred to as a sloth park because of its dedicated sloth viewing platforms and high sloth-sighting success rate. Unlike a commercial sloth park, however, every sloth at Proyecto Asis is a rescued animal — either a wild sloth roaming freely across the sanctuary or a sloth currently undergoing rehabilitation from injuries before being released back into the wild.

How much does the sloth park tour cost?
The Sloth Sanctuary Tour is $35 USD per adult and $25 USD for children aged 5 to 9. Children under 5 are admitted free. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and is led by a bilingual guide (English/Spanish).

What is the best time to visit the sloth park in La Fortuna?
Tours run Monday through Saturday at 8:30 am, 10:30 am, and 1:30 pm. Morning tours are generally recommended as sloths tend to be more active earlier in the day. All three time slots offer excellent sighting opportunities thanks to the sanctuary’s elevated viewing platforms and expert guides.

Can I see sloths guaranteed at the Proyecto Asis sloth park?
Sloth sightings are highly likely but not guaranteed. The wild sloths roam freely across the sanctuary and may not always be visible, and the number of sloths in rehabilitation varies depending on current rescues and releases.

Can I hold or touch the sloths at the sloth park?
No. Physical contact with sloths is not permitted. The sloths are either wild animals or animals in active rehabilitation, and human contact causes stress that can set back their recovery. The elevated viewing platforms at Proyecto Asis are designed to provide very close, unhurried observation without disturbing the animals.

How is the sloth park different from the wildlife tour?
The Sloth Sanctuary Tour ($35/adult, 1.5 hours) focuses exclusively on the rescued sloths. The Wildlife Regular Tour ($40/adult, 1.5 hours) covers the full Proyecto Asis rescue center including all resident species — capuchin monkeys, spider monkeys, macaws, caimans, coatis, kinkajous, and more. A Wildlife + Volunteer experience ($60/adult, up to 2.5 hours) is also available for visitors who want a hands-on animal care experience.

How do I get to the sloth park from La Fortuna?
Proyecto Asis is located approximately 7 km from downtown La Fortuna, near the road toward Arenal Volcano National Park. The drive takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Free parking is available on site. Taxi service from La Fortuna center is also readily available. For directions, contact us via WhatsApp at +506 8679-5867.

Do I need to book the sloth park tour in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during Costa Rica’s high season from December to April. You can book online directly on this page, by phone at +506 4000-1553, or via WhatsApp at +506 8679-5867.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)

The collared peccary (Pecari tajacu)—often mistaken for a wild pig—is actually a rugged, social mammal that plays a vital role in desert and forest ecosystems across the Americas. With its iconic “collar” of pale fur and fierce family bonds, this species is both fascinating and ecologically essential.

Other Common Names & Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Pecari tajacu
  • Other Names:
    • Javelina (Southwestern U.S.)
    • Musk hog
    • Sahíno (Spanish)
    • Queixada (Brazil)
  • Taxonomy:
    • Kingdom: Animalia
    • Phylum: Chordata
    • Class: Mammalia
    • Order: Artiodactyla
    • Family: Tayassuidae (peccaries, not pigs)
    • Genus: Pecari

(Fun Fact: Despite their pig-like appearance, peccaries split from true pigs ~40 million years ago!)

Anatomical Characteristics: Built for Tough Terrain

  • Size & Weight:
    • Length: 80–100 cm (2.6–3.3 ft)
    • Height: 30–50 cm (1–1.6 ft) at shoulder
    • Weight: 14–30 kg (30–66 lbs)
  • Distinctive Features:
    • “Collar” of white fur around the neck
    • Sharp, straight tusks (unlike curved pig tusks)
    • Scent gland on the rump (used for marking territory)
    • Coarse, bristly fur (gray to blackish-brown)
  • Adaptations:
    • Tough snout for rooting in hard soil
    • Excellent sense of smell (poor eyesight)

Conservation Status: Holding Steady (For Now)

  • IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
  • Regional Threats:
    • Hunted for meat and hides in parts of Latin America
    • Habitat fragmentation in the U.S. Southwest
  • Protected Areas: Thrives in national parks like Big Bend (Texas) and the Sonoran Desert.

Biology & Ecology: The Ultimate Survivor

  • Diet: Omnivorous but mostly herbivorous:
    • Cacti (especially prickly pear!), roots, fruits, nuts
    • Occasional insects, small vertebrates, or carrion
  • Behavior:
    • Highly social—lives in herds of 6–30 (led by dominant females)
    • Defensive: Forms a united front against predators (coyotes, pumas)
    • Vocal: Grunts, squeals, and tooth-chattering to communicate
  • Ecological Role:
    • Seed disperser for desert plants
    • Prey for large carnivores

Population Trend: Stable but Locally Vulnerable

  • Global Population: ~5 million (estimated)
  • Declines in:
    • Urbanized areas of Arizona/Texas (roadkill, habitat loss)
    • Northern Mexico (overhunting)
  • Expanding in: Some South American regions due to reforestation

Geographical Distribution: Where Do They Roam?

  • Native Range: Southwestern U.S. through Central America to Argentina
  • Habitats:
    • Deserts (Sonoran, Chihuahuan)
    • Tropical forests (Amazon, Yucatán)
    • Scrublands (Caatinga in Brazil)
  • Countries: U.S. (AZ, TX, NM), Mexico, Brazil, Costa Rica, Paraguay

Threats to Survival: Human Conflicts

1️⃣ Habitat Loss (urban sprawl, agriculture)
2️⃣ Hunting (for meat, sport, or retaliatory killings)
3️⃣ Roadkill (major cause of death in the U.S. Southwest)
4️⃣ Climate Change (drought reduces food/water availability)

Reproductive Cycle: Strong Family Bonds

  • Mating Season: Year-round (peaks in rainy seasons)
  • Gestation: 145–155 days (~5 months)
  • Litter Size: 1–4 young (usually 2–3)
  • Maternal Care:
    • Piglets (“reds” for their color) follow mom within hours of birth
    • Weaned at 2–3 months
    • Stay with the herd for 6–12 months
  • Sexual Maturity: Females at 8–14 months, males at 11 months
  • Lifespan: 8–10 years in wild, up to 24 years in captivity

How Can We Help Protect Collared Peccaries?

✅ Support habitat corridors to reduce roadkill.
✅ Advocate for sustainable hunting laws in Latin America.
✅ Keep wildlife wild—never feed javelinas (they lose fear of humans).
✅ Donate to conservation groups like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

Collared peccaries are more than just tough survivors—they’re ecosystem engineers, shaping landscapes from deserts to rainforests. While still widespread, local declines remind us that even resilient species need protection.

Did you learn something new? Share this post to spread peccary pride! 🐗💨

Google Reviews and Photos from our visitors.

Consider becoming a Donor

Monthly Donation

$10

$25

$50

$75

Enter your amount