16/07/2025
In Costa Rica, it is illegal to touch, hold, or take selfies with wild animals. The government, through MINAE, launched the campaign to protect wildlife and encourage ethical, respectful tourism.
Taking selfies with wild animals is a serious problem:
• It causes stress and suffering. Wild animals aren’t meant for human interaction. Getting too close can frighten or even harm them.
• It encourages the illegal wildlife trade, where animals are taken from the wild or raised in poor conditions for photos.
• It disrupts their natural behaviors, making them more vulnerable and less able to thrive in the wild.
If you truly care about animals, observe them from a respectful distance.
Let your photos show admiration—not exploitation.
