Also: Stay away from roadside scammers who let tourists hold a sloth for a photo. They simply knock a baby sloth out of a tree, exploit it for quick money, then abandon the animal and allow it to die from malnutrition. When the next tourist comes along who wants to hold a sloth for a photo, they repeat this inhumane practice. If you see someone doing this, we ask that you take a photo of the person and call 9-1-1 to report them. top of page

Do you have a secured parking area where we can leave our luggage in the car?
Our facility is gated and enclosed and the parking area is secure and in close proximity to your tour. However, as with all locations in Costa Rica, please lock your car. We cannot take responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged property, so please be prudent. top of page

Sloth Sanctuary Wish List
Thank you for helping us serve the sloths in our care. Please see our Wish List page for current needs.

Can I drink the tap water there?
Not recommended. Bring plenty purified bottled drinking water. Purchase at any of the local markets such as Auto Mercado with various locations, including San José. Stay hydrated, because it’s hot and humid!

Tap water is OK for brushing teeth or taking a shower. Guests at the Buttercup Inn receive a complimentary bottle of purified drinking water. Additional bottles available for purchase in the Gift Shop. top of page

Why does the Insider’s Tour cost more than the Buttercup Tour?
The Buttercup Tour (1 hour) a fun and informative introduction to sloths and their rainforest habitat. The Insider’s Tour includes the Buttercup Tour (2 hours) with other guests, and then goes “behind the scenes” to the Nursery and NICU. Many guests tell us the Insider’s Tour was the highlight of their Costa Rican holiday. top of page

When is the best time of year to visit the Sanctuary? What’s the weather?
In our Caribbean coastal area, the High/Dry Season is February, March, September & October. The Green/Rainy Season is November–January, April–August. top of page

I need to change/cancel my Insider’s Tour/Buttercup Inn reservation. What’s your policy?
Payment is final; no refunds. If you need to cancel or change your visit, email us right away at ContactUs@SlothSanctuary.com. We will make every effort to reschedule within two years of your original arrival date, based on availability. If you cannot reschedule within that period, your payment will be considered a donation to the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica. top of page

How can I get there and back from my cruise ship in Puerto Limón?
There are always cabs waiting at port when a ship arrives; cost is about US$45 from Puerto Limón to the Sanctuary. Ideally, prearrange your return to port with your initial cab driver. If you are taking the Insider’s Tour, have the driver return at 5:15PM.

Depending on availability, we may be able take you back to port in our van. Transportation must be requested in advance at ContactUs@SlothSanctuary.com. top of page

Can I reserve the Buttercup Tour?
Yes! Email ButtercupTours@SlothSanctuary.com. top of page

What should I pack for a visit to the Sanctuary?
Comfortable shoes (ideally closed-toe), rain gear, sun hat, bottled water and your camera. top of page

What other activities can I do near the Sanctuary?
Cahuita National Park (both the park and the beach), Caribeans Chocolate Forest Experience, dining and sightseeing in Puerto Viejo or Cahuita are just a few nearby activities to consider. We also highly recommend Tortuguero National Park. top of page

Do you have any dinner recommendations in the area?
In nearby Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, Sobre las Olas, Amimodo and Café Viejo are popular dining options. top of page

I have a service dog that’s not a pet. May I bring it on the tour and to the Inn?
Service dogs are welcome, except for the tour segment when you visit the area where the sloths are housed. This is for their safety. We can arrange a staff member to help you and your service dog for that segment of the tour. top of page