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This amazing wildlife rescue center is the perfect place to meet many of Costa Rica’s birds

Zoo Ave

Zoo Ave

Good to Know

Zoo Ave, a distinguished wildlife rescue center in La Garita de Alajuela, offers a unique opportunity to encounter Costa Rica's diverse fauna. Dedicated to rehabilitating injured animals and breeding endangered species like the Scarlet Macaw, it guarantees sightings of the vibrant quetzal, its main attraction. This remarkable center provides an engaging day trip for those exploring the Central Valley, showcasing hundreds of native birds, reptiles, and mammals.


Zoo Ave, Ave meaning Bird in Spanish, is a remarkable rescue center that is home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals. This rescue and rehabilitation is located in La Garita de Alajuela, making for the perfect day trip for those that are traveling to or from San Jose as it is close by. Zoo Ave has a remarkable display of the most exquisite animals and birds making for great photos!

In 1995, Zoo Ave was declared as a Wildlife Rescue Center. Zoo Ave brings in animals that have been injured or mistreated and provides them with the proper help they need in order to be released back into the wild. This center has made an impact in Costa Rica as it has housed and bred many different species such as the Scarlet Macaw, which are highly endangered.

Zoo Ave is the only place in all of Costa Rica that visitors are guaranteed to see the quetzal! This beautiful bird with its vibrant colorful body and long feathers is Zoo Aves main attraction! This rescue center also houses king African cranes, monkeys, sloths and many more!

Visitors should take note that no authorized tours stop at Zoo Ave, so transportation is dependent on the individual. The fee of the park is 5 USD and is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Maps are provided online and at the entrance! Zoo Ave is a nice day trip that presents visitors with many of the different wildlife species that are native to Costa Rica!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zoo Ave?

Zoo Ave is a distinguished wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center located in La Garita de Alajuela, Costa Rica. Established in 1995, it provides care for injured or mistreated animals, facilitates their release, and actively breeds endangered species.


What animals can visitors expect to see at Zoo Ave?

Visitors to Zoo Ave can observe hundreds of species, including a vibrant array of birds like toucans, macaws, and the resplendent quetzal, which is guaranteed to be seen. The center also houses reptiles, mammals such as monkeys and sloths, and king African cranes.


What are the operating hours and entrance fee for Zoo Ave?

Zoo Ave is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. The entrance fee for visitors is 5 USD.


How should visitors arrange transportation to Zoo Ave?

Visitors are responsible for their own transportation to Zoo Ave, as no authorized tours include a stop at the center. It is conveniently located near Alajuela (1 km) and San Jose (28 km), making it an ideal day trip.