LA FORTUNA RIVER TUBE FIELD GUIDE
An Hour Among Rescued Wildlife, Followed by a Mineral Soak in La Fortuna
A one-hour, guide-led sanctuary tour that introduces rescued animals and conservation challenges, followed by a hot‑springs day pass—this practical guide explains what to expect and what to pack.
An Hour Among Rescued Wildlife, Followed by a Mineral Soak in La Fortuna.
On the slopes near La Fortuna, a concentrated one‑hour circuit through a licensed wildlife sanctuary pairs close-up encounters with a clear conservation message. Trained guides and extensive interpretive signage walk you through the challenges rescued animals face in Costa Rica, and the visit culminates in an included hot‑springs day pass for the rest of the afternoon.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Rescued Residents and Care
For more than 15 years the operator has worked with Costa Rica’s Environmental Ministry to care for animals that cannot be returned to the wild; the sanctuary focuses on providing enclosures and conditions that promote instinctual behaviors for these rescued or confiscated animals.
Guides and Educational Signage
The one‑hour tour is led by trained guides and supported by extensive educational signage designed to explain the delicate balance between people and nature in Costa Rica and the specific threats these animals face.
Sanctuary Mission and Public Education
The facility is one of only a handful licensed entities in the country to receive certain animals and makes public education central to its mission—helping visitors understand why some animals remain in human care rather than being released.
What the day feels like
How the Day Feels
The visit is compact and focused: a guided hour among enclosures and interpretive points that foreground rescue, rehabilitation and habitat pressures, then a transition to the mineral‑rich hot springs where your included day pass lets you relax for the remainder of the afternoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear comfortable sport or synthetic clothing and tennis or hiking shoes. Bring water shoes for river activities (available to rent), a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunblock and a change of clothes in case of rain. For tubing, wear a long‑sleeve water shirt to avoid chafing. For horseback tours bring long pants and sneakers as crossings may get your shoes wet.
The springs are mineral‑rich and may stain or snag swimsuits—use a dark, inexpensive suit if concerned. Lockers, changing rooms and towels are available free of charge.
Water shoes are offered for rent at $4.52 (tax included) per pair.
Please present identification at check‑in time. The property is incorporated and operated entirely in Costa Rica.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sanctuary tour?
The sanctuary tour is one hour in duration.
Is the hot‑springs pass included?
Yes—the published price includes the hot‑springs day pass.
Can guests of The Springs Resort & Spa book this tour directly?
If you are staying at The Springs Resort & Spa you should not book this public option; instead contact the resort concierge for reservations and options specific to hotel guests.
Are towels and lockers provided?
Yes—lockers, changing rooms and towels are available free of charge.
Are water shoes available?
Water shoes are available to rent for $4.52 (tax included) per pair.
Will the hot‑springs water affect my swimsuit?
The hot‑springs water is rich in minerals and might stain or snag bathing suits; dark, inexpensive suits are recommended.
How long can I stay at the springs after the tour?
You will have the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the hot springs after the one‑hour sanctuary tour.