Rescate Wildlife Rescue Centre

The wind didn’t make for a peaceful sleep, but we were ready to go nonetheless!
We packed up one last time, and headed out for breakfast at “Soda La Amistad”. There decor was so lovely, with mural-filled walls and sweet plaques. We enjoyed traditional breckie and omelettes.

We then drove back down to lower ground, winding down the sunny lush green valleys and past fields of “saggy neck cows” while the temperature climbed again. At one toll we were given a haul of free snacks, but as I excitedly tucked in the crackers they turned out to be disgusting! They were swiftly donated to a grateful passer by in town later on. For the remainder of the journey we rinsed the last of the extensive 80s playlist that has served us well the past fortnight.

Our final stop was Rescat Animal Sanctuary, just outside of San Jose. Notably Central America’s largest wildlife rescue centre, they help 3000 animals annually, aiming to rehabilitate and release them where possible. The stories of the rescued animals were so moving, and where re-release isn’t possible they become permanent residents. The enclosures were huge, and the VR experience was really unique. My highlights were seeing the jaguars and oselots up close, the white peacock and huge crocodiles, and understanding more about the breading programme for the animals at risk of endangered status. The large bearded dragons milling around the paths (outside enclosures) were quite disconcerting too. A really enjoyable afternoon.

Then a drive through bustling Arajuella to our last stopover, and out for the most delicious veggie burgers at “El Chante Vegano”.

Despite being “expired” (ha!) I.e. super tired… we mustered up the energy for a last few card games. With our “gloat chart” tallied up, Dom gets the final gloat this time, much to his delight. We had an early night in preparation for our flight home tomorrow.Read more