Adventure brief
Discovery Pass
Walk through Guanacaste’s largest wildlife sanctuary with Diamante Eco Adventure Park’s Discovery Pass. Encounter rescued sloths, jaguars, and monkeys while learning about vital conservation efforts on a self-paced visit.
Located in the heart of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, Diamante Eco Adventure Park offers an immersive experience through its Discovery Pass—Guanacaste’s largest animal sanctuary. This self-guided tour invites visitors to witness a rich collection of rescued wildlife thriving within habitats meticulously designed to mirror their natural environments. As you wander the sanctuary’s trails, you’ll come face-to-face with iconic Central American species such as sloths lazily hanging from branches, curious monkeys swinging from canopy to canopy, and the elusive jaguar navigating shaded undergrowth.
Diamante’s sanctuary plays a vital role in wildlife conservation, partnering with Costa Rica’s Ministry of Wildlife (MINAE) to care for animals rescued from unsafe conditions. The sanctuary not only provides a refuge but also educates visitors about the region’s biodiversity and ongoing efforts to protect these creatures and their ecosystems. The walk itself stretches over gentle terrain that suits all ages, allowing visitors to set their own pace over a typical 1.5-hour visit.
Interpretive signage throughout the sanctuary offers insights into the biology and behavior of the animals, making this more than just a viewing experience. The park’s location near Playa Matapalo places it within reach of Guanacaste’s renowned coastline and dry tropical forests, known for their distinct flora like towering Guanacaste trees and vibrant toucan populations. Diamante Eco Adventure Park stands out among Costa Rica’s outdoor destinations due to its focus on ethical wildlife interaction, providing safe, non-intrusive wildlife encounters that respect animal welfare.
Whether you're an animal enthusiast, a family seeking an engaging and educational outing, or an eco-conscious traveler eager to support sustainable tourism, the Discovery Pass offers a rare opportunity to connect intimately with Costa Rica’s wild residents in a setting that champions conservation first.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early to Beat the Heatinfo
Start your visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and more active animals.
- 02Wear Comfortable Walking Shoesessential
The trails feature gentle elevation but uneven ground—sturdy shoes will ensure comfort throughout your 1.5-hour tour.
- 03Bring Binoculars for Wildlife Viewinginfo
A pair of binoculars can help you spot shy animals, especially birds and small mammals hidden in the canopy.
- 04Respect the Animal Spacesessential
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and follow all posted guidelines to protect both animals and visitors.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Lightweight hiking shoes
Ideal for traversing natural sanctuary trails comfortably.
EssentialBinoculars
Enhances viewing of animals high in the treetops or distant areas.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit in Costa Rica’s warm climate.
allEssentialSun protection (hat and sunscreen)
Protects against intense tropical sun during midday hours.
summerEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Quiet birdwatching spots near the Guanacaste trail edges, Secluded picnic areas overlooking forested hillside views
Local fauna
Three-toed sloth, Rescued jaguar
Historic heritage
Diamante Eco Adventure Park was established to consolidate rescued wildlife ensuring long-term protection in Guanacaste’s rapidly developing region.
Mindful exploration
The park’s collaboration with MINAE emphasizes rehabilitation and environmental education, promoting sustainable tourism practices across Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Canopy bridge overlooking the monkey habitat, Forest edge trails showing jaguar enclosure, Open areas near the sanctuary entrance
- Subjects
- Wildlife encounters, Dense tropical foliage, Naturalistic animal enclosures
- Best times
- Early morning, Late afternoon, Golden hour
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is the Discovery Pass suitable for children?
Yes, the sanctuary is family-friendly and safe for children ages 5 and up.
Can I bring my own guide for the self-guided tour?
Guides are not required—the experience is designed for self-paced discovery using provided interpretive materials.
Are the animals kept in natural conditions?
Absolutely. The sanctuary’s habitats emulate natural environments to ensure animal well-being and comfort.
How long does the self-guided tour usually take?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 hours touring the sanctuary at a relaxed pace.
Is photography allowed inside the sanctuary?
Photography is welcome, but flash use near animals is discouraged to avoid stress.
What measures are in place to support conservation?
Diamante Eco Adventure Park partners with Costa Rica’s Ministry of Wildlife to rehabilitate and protect native species while educating visitors.