ABOUT
iRescue Wildlife
MISSION & VISION.
At iRescue Wildlife, our mission is to end the illegal pet wildlife trade in Costa Rica by providing rescue, rehabilitation, release, and retirement services for animals seized by the government. We work alongside government enforcement agencies to ensure injured, orphaned, or displaced animals receive the specialized care they need to heal and thrive. Our vision is a world where all wildlife is valued and protected, able to live freely in flourishing ecosystems. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, we inspire communities to preserve biodiversity, promote humane attitudes toward wildlife, and safeguard natural habitats for present and future generations.
ABOUT US
Nestled in the serene mountains of southern Costa Rica at 9°07'49"N 83°36'40"W, iRescue Wildlife and Farm Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope and compassion. At 3200 feet elevation between the charming community of Pejibaye and the coastal paradise of Ojochal, our 500-acre haven offers a mild highland climate average temperatures of 66–83°F (19–28°C) year-round with cooler, refreshing nights and pleasant days. Surrounded by lush rainforests, natural springs, clean rivers, and rich biodiversity teeming with vibrant birds, mammals, and plants, this pristine landscape serves as a vital corridor for wildlife, including Costa Rica's majestic big cats.
As one of only a handful of fully permitted non-profit wildlife rescue centers in Costa Rica, iRescue is the exclusive licensed facility serving the Pérez Zeledón region, including San Isidro de El General, the country's second-largest city. Licensed under Asociacion I Rescue Refugio De Vida Silvestre by SINAC and MINAE since partnering in 2012 following the landmark law banning wild animals as pets, we specialize in rescue, rehabilitation, release, and lifelong retirement for a wide array of mammals and birds.
Unlike many centers that operate as public zoos for tourism revenue, iRescue remains a private sanctuary. We prioritize the privacy, dignity, and highest quality of life for every animal over public access. Our vast, untouched surroundings minimize human interaction while maximizing natural habitat ensuring optimal recovery and release. We go further by providing lifelong care for elderly, disfigured, or handicapped wildlife through custom enclosures, specialized diets, round-the-clock attention, and dedicated rehabilitation compassion that every animal deserves.
Our roots trace back to 2005 as a U.S.-based 501(c)(3), named iRescue Wildlife Inc., focused on animal rescue and welfare. Expanding our reach to Costa Rica in 2011, we began local rescues and have now operated for over 15 years. As we evolve, we're excited to launch transformative initiatives in 2026. We operate in Costa Rica under our non-profit entity: Asociacion I Rescue Refugio De Vida Silvestre.
Join our hands-on volunteer program limited to just 8 participants at a time for an elevated, private experience. Enjoy luxurious accommodations with king-size beds, private bathrooms, optional apartments, pure spring water, and organic, homegrown meals while contributing daily to wildlife and farm care.
Within our 500 acres lies a 35-acre farm sanctuary: compassionate no-kill home to cows, horses, chickens, ducks, goats, and an evolving 3-acre food forest and organic garden producing fruits and vegetables. These animals live in harmony with nature, providing milk and eggs to support our wildlife efforts while embodying balanced, sustainable living.
We're also creating an exclusive on-site community: only 5 home sites for qualified individuals and families passionate about wildlife rescue, organic farming, and clean living generating vital funds and expanding our dedicated team.
As a registered participant in Costa Rica's FONAFIFO environmental services program, we protect our rainforest forever safeguarding released animals and future generations in this irreplaceable habitat.
iRescue is truly one-of-a-kind: a wildlife rescue center, farm sanctuary, protected rainforest, and welcoming community united in compassion, conservation, and harmony.
Our Attributes
iRescue is one of Costa Rica’s most exclusive private wildlife rescue centers, situated on a pristine 500-acre FONAFIFO protected sanctuary at 3,200 feet. We provide specialized lifelong care for all animals including special-needs cases within a vast natural habitat, complemented by a no-kill organic farm and limited 2026 volunteer and resident community programs.
Location
Located at 3200 ft elevation in the mountains above Ojochal in the southern zone.
Rich Soil
Dark, rich, well balanced soil is located throughout the property which ensures our ability to grow food organically.
Staff
Full on-site staff of animal professionals, skilled builders and a robust property maintenance crew.
Size
Our legal footprint is 500 acres with over 250 acres protected under the FONAFIFO program.
Tropical Rainforest
Our property is just one part of 10,000+ acres of surrounding unadulterated, pristine rainforest.
Accommodations
High end bamboo inspired home construction along side our soon to be launched upscale volunteer center.
Spring Water
The entire property is fed 100% pure spring water through natural springs.
Natural Habitat
Located in the native habitat of nearly every animal we treat, our on-site release program thrives.
Amenities
Enjoy every aspect of nature in its fullest due to our private location. Jungle hikes, bird watching, river walks, forest bathing
OUR PARTNERSHIPS.
At iRescue Wildlife, we value our partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to wildlife conservation and protection. These partnerships enable us to collectively work towards our mission of ending the illegal pet wildlife trade, providing specialized care for animals, and advocating for the preservation of natural habitats. Together, we strive to inspire communities to promote humane attitudes toward wildlife and safeguard biodiversity for future generations.
