White-faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus imitator) are among the most intelligent primates in Costa Rica — and that intelligence needs to be exercised every single day.
At Proyecto Asis, our caregivers use enrichment toys to stimulate natural behaviors like foraging, problem-solving, and manual dexterity. These are not store-bought accessories. Every toy is handmade from safe, natural materials — and visitors can help build them.
What Are Enrichment Toys and Why Do They Matter?
Animal enrichment is a core principle of responsible wildlife rescue. When a monkey arrives at our sanctuary after injury or rescue from illegal captivity, rehabilitation isn’t just physical — it’s behavioral. Enrichment toys help animals:
- Practice species-typical behaviors (foraging, manipulating objects, exploring)
- Exercise cognitive problem-solving skills
- Maintain physical dexterity needed for eventual release
- Reduce stress in a sanctuary environment
For white-faced capuchins, whose hands and minds are in constant use in the wild, enrichment is not optional — it is essential care.
How Visitors Help at Proyecto Asis
In the video above, you can see a young visitor working alongside our guide Carlos to assemble enrichment toys that go directly to our capuchin monkeys. She’s selecting live worms — one of the natural food rewards hidden inside the toys — under the guidance of our team.
This is exactly what guests experience during our Wildlife Tour + Volunteer: a 2.5-hour program (Monday through Saturday, 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM) where visitors participate in real sanctuary work — preparing diets, building enrichment toys, and observing feeding from a respectful distance, in line with Costa Rica’s Ministry of Environment regulations.
It is suitable for all ages and families are welcome.
Join Us in La Fortuna
Proyecto Asis is a certified wildlife rescue sanctuary and educational center located in La Fortuna de San Carlos, steps from Arenal Volcano. We care for over 30 rescued species, and every tour directly supports their recovery and long-term welfare.
Wildlife Tour + Volunteer — from $60 USD adults / $35 USD kids (ages 5–9)
→ Book your spot here