If you are looking for meaningful things to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, visiting Kids Saving the Rainforest (KSTR) should be at the top of your list.
Yesterday, we visited this incredible wildlife rescue center with my cousin, his wife, and their 7-year-old daughter, Mila. What we expected to be a simple animal visit turned into a powerful and emotional experience about Costa Rica’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Unlike a zoo or tourist attraction, KSTR is a real wildlife rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary in Manuel Antonio, where every animal has a story.
Where is Kids Saving the Rainforest located?
Kids Saving the Rainforest (KSTR) is located near Quepos, in Naranjito, 40 minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast.
Its location makes it an easy stop for travelers staying in:
You need a good car or a 4x4 to get there; the road is unpaved and really bumpy.
Even though it is close to tourist areas, the sanctuary feels peaceful and fully immersed in nature.
What is Kids Saving the Rainforest?
Kids Saving the Rainforest, Costa Rica is a non-profit wildlife rescue center founded in 1999 by two young girls who wanted to protect local rainforest animals.
Today, it is one of the most respected wildlife rehabilitation centers in Costa Rica, focused on:
- Rescuing injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife
- Rehabilitating animals for release back into the wild
- Providing lifelong sanctuary care when release is not possible
- Building wildlife bridges for monkeys and sloths
- Educating visitors about conservation and rainforest protection
Animals commonly seen at KSTR include:
- Howler monkeys
- Capuchin monkeys
- Sloths
- Tropical birds
- Small rainforest mammals
Each animal has a unique rescue story explained during the tour.
The KSTR Tour Experience (What to Expect)
The Kids Saving the Rainforest tour in Manuel Antonio is guided and highly educational. It is not a typical zoo visit—it focuses on awareness, conservation, and storytelling.
During the tour, you will learn:
- How each animal was rescued
- Why some animals cannot be released back into the wild
- The rehabilitation process
- The impact of human activity on wildlife in Costa Rica
One of the most special parts of our visit was seeing how engaged a 7-year-old child, Mila, was. The experience is designed to be family-friendly while still meaningful for adults.
Instead of just observing animals, you leave with an understanding of their stories and the importance of protecting Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
Kids Saving the Rainforest Hours & Tour Duration
- Duration: 1h to 2h
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM.
- Closed: usually on Mondays
- Best for: families, couples, wildlife lovers, and educational visits
Kids Saving the Rainforest Prices
The KSTR entrance fee in Costa Rica is generally:
- Adults: approx. $60 USD
- Children: approx. $45 USD
- Free for children under 3.
You can also eat at their onsite organic restaurant for about 12$ per person.
Important: Fees directly support wildlife rescue, food, veterinary care, and rehabilitation programs.
You can book a tour directly through Kids Saving the Rainforest’s website.
Why Visit Kids Saving the Rainforest in Manuel Antonio?
There are many animal-related tours in Costa Rica, but Kids Saving the Rainforest stands out as a true conservation experience.
Here’s why it’s worth visiting:
1. Real wildlife rescue center (not a zoo)
Every animal here has been rescued, not bought or displayed for entertainment.
2. Supports conservation in Costa Rica
Your ticket directly funds rescue operations and wildlife protection programs.
3. Educational and meaningful experience
You learn about wildlife protection, not just observe animals.
4. Perfect for families
Children gain awareness about nature and conservation in a fun and engaging way.
5. Unique experience in Manuel Antonio
It’s one of the most authentic wildlife experiences near Manuel Antonio National Park.
Is Kids Saving the Rainforest good for kids?
Yes—Kids Saving the Rainforest is one of the best family-friendly activities in Manuel Antonio.
For Mila (7 years old), the visit was both exciting and educational. She was able to see animals up close while also learning why they cannot live freely in the wild.
It’s an ideal experience for:
- Families with children
- School-age kids
- Animal lovers
- First-time visitors to Costa Rica
Tips for Visiting KSTR
To make the most of your visit:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring your swimsuit if you want to take a refreshing dip in the pool
- Bring mosquito repellent
- Avoid flash photography
- Book your tour in advance (especially in high season)
- Combine it with Manuel Antonio National Park for a full wildlife day
Final Thoughts: Is Kids Saving the Rainforest Worth It?
Yes—absolutely.
Visiting Kids Saving the Rainforest in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is not just a tourist activity. It is a chance to understand the real impact of conservation work and the importance of protecting wildlife habitats.
It’s emotional, educational, and inspiring—especially when experienced with family or children.
If you are traveling in the area and looking for something meaningful beyond beaches and adventure tours, KSTR is one of the best wildlife experiences in Costa Rica.
Frequently asked questions
Kids Saving the Rainforest is located in Quepos, just a few minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park on the Central Pacific coast.
Its convenient location makes it easy to visit for travelers staying in Manuel Antonio or nearby beach towns.
Kids can play an important role in protecting the rainforest, even while traveling or from home. Simple actions make a big difference:
- Learn about wildlife and conservation
- Respect animals and never feed wildlife
- Reduce plastic use and recycle
- Support ethical organizations like Kids Saving the Rainforest
- Encourage family members to choose eco-friendly tours
Visiting a wildlife rescue center is also a great way for kids to understand why protecting nature matters
Costa Rica is considered a global leader in rainforest conservation. The country protects its forests through:
- National parks and protected areas (over 25% of the land)
- Renewable energy and sustainability initiatives
- Payments to landowners to preserve forests (PES program)
- Wildlife conservation programs and rescue centers
- Strict laws against deforestation and illegal wildlife trade
These efforts have helped Costa Rica reverse deforestation and become one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Both young people and adults in Costa Rica are deeply involved in conservation efforts:
- The founders of Kids Saving the Rainforest started the project as children
- Communities build wildlife bridges to protect monkeys and sloths
- Scientists and volunteers work in rescue centers and research programs
- Locals participate in reforestation and environmental education
- Schools teach sustainability and conservation from a young age
Costa Rica’s culture strongly emphasizes living in harmony with nature—often referred to as the “Pura Vida” lifestyle.
Yes! Kids Saving the Rainforest offers volunteer programs for people who want to support wildlife rescue and conservation efforts.
Volunteer tasks may include:
- Preparing food for animals
- Cleaning enclosures
- Assisting staff with daily care
- Helping with maintenance and conservation projects
- Supporting educational programs
Tasks vary depending on the needs of the sanctuary and your experience level.
No prior experience is required for most volunteer roles. However:
- A positive attitude and willingness to help are essential
- Some roles may require basic physical fitness
- Specialized tasks (like veterinary work) require qualifications
Training and guidance are usually provided on-site.
Volunteer programs can range from:
- A few days (short-term experience)
- 1–2 weeks
- Several weeks or months for deeper involvement
Longer stays are ideal if you want a more immersive conservation experience.
No, most volunteer programs require a fee. This typically covers:
- Accommodation
- Meals (sometimes)
- Training and supervision
- Contribution to animal care and conservation
Fees help support the non-profit’s operations.
Volunteers usually stay in on-site or nearby accommodations arranged by the organization. Options may include:
- Shared volunteer housing
- Basic eco-lodges
- Nearby guesthouses (depending on the program)
Some programs accept:
- Teenagers (usually with a minimum age requirement)
- Families with older children
It’s best to check directly with the organization for age policies and availability.
Volunteering at a place like Kids Saving the Rainforest allows you to:
- Make a real impact on animal welfare
- Learn about conservation firsthand
- Experience Costa Rica beyond tourism
- Connect with like-minded travelers
It’s one of the most rewarding experiences you can have while traveling.
