Overview
Established in the early 1990s, this center began as a zoo but has since transformed entirely into a rescue, rehabilitation, and breeding facility focused on returning injured animals to the wild. Though officially renamed Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, it remains widely known by its original name, Zoo Ave. It runs breeding programs for endangered species like scarlet and great green macaws, and provides lifetime care for roughly 800 non-releasable animals. Just 15 minutes from San José's airport, it offers wheelchair rentals and children's wagons for accessibility. Adult admission runs around $30, though prices may change, so check ahead.
💰 Tickets
About $30 for adults, $15 for children (subject to change, please verify before visiting).
🎟️ Check ticket prices →Opening Hours
Daily 09:00-17:00.
Travel Tips
Morning visits catch the birds at their most active. Adding a guided tour helps explain each animal's rescue story and rehabilitation process.
Affiliate link — RoadMento may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to San José, Costa Rica from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Costa Rica on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to San José on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in San José with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "San José 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Zoo Ave (Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center)
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Things to Do in San José
Poás Volcano National Park Day Trip
A day trip to Poás Volcano (2,708m), about 1.5 hours from San José. View the 1.3km-wide crater and its emerald sulfuric lake during a 20-minute window. On clear days, see both the Caribbean and Pacific. Online booking mandatory.
Central Market Food Tour
Explore the Central Market (since 1880) with a guide, sampling casado, gallo pinto, tropical fruits, and Costa Rican coffee. A deep dive into Costa Rican food culture and market life.
Barrio Escalante Foodie Walk
Stroll through Barrio Escalante, San José's 'Gastronomic Street,' hopping between Costa Rican fusion restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and craft breweries. Start at Franco Café and discover hidden gems in every alley.