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With a dedication to protecting the lives of Costa Rica’s sloths, this sanctuary is an educational destination for animal lovers

Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary

Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary

Good to Know

Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary in Costa Rica is a dedicated rehabilitation center for sloths, founded in 1992 by Judy and Luis Arroyo. Visitors can embark on a guided canoe safari through the mangroves, observing sloths, monkeys, lizards, and birds. The experience also includes an educational film and a live presentation at the sloth nursery, highlighting the sanctuary's mission to protect these unique creatures.


Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary was created by Judy and Luis Arroyo in 1992 by dedicating their once boutique hotel to a rehabilitation for sloths. It all started when a group of young girls brought Buttercup, an injured three-fingered sloth, to the Arroyos. Much of their knowledge about sloths was obtained through self-experience, as Buttercup was the first of many to come to their hotel. The transformation of the hotel came about as more and more sloths came to their doors. The sloths are brought here because they have special needs due to a wide range of reasons, most of which stem from mankind's encroachment into their habitat. Through study and observation, most of the sloths are on the right path to recovery.

A visit to the Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary includes a guided canoe safari in the mangroves behind the facilities. One can not only spot sloths here, but also monkeys, lizards and various species of birds. This is followed with a brief movie presentation about the importance of protecting these friendly creatures and then a live presentation at the sloth nursery.

The Arroyo family has been successful in rescuing hundreds of sloths. The success of their sanctuary can be credited to the care that they have given each individual sloth as well as the locals that have noticed and continue to support them.

Driving Distances

Cahuita12 km
Puerto Viejo29 km
Punta Uva36 km
San Jose192 km
Turrialba134 km

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary?

Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary, established in 1992 by Judy and Luis Arroyo, is a rehabilitation center dedicated to protecting and caring for sloths in Costa Rica, many of whom have special needs due to human encroachment.


What activities can visitors experience at the sanctuary?

A visit includes a guided canoe safari through the mangroves, where you can spot sloths, monkeys, lizards, and various bird species. It also features a brief educational film and a live presentation at the sloth nursery.


How did Aviarios Sloth Sanctuary begin?

The sanctuary began in 1992 when Judy and Luis Arroyo transformed their boutique hotel into a rehabilitation center after caring for Buttercup, an injured three-fingered sloth, and subsequently many others.