Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Ecotourism is a phrase heard quite often in Costa Rica. Even though the country is small – it only takes up three ten-thousandths of the earth’s surface – it is famous for having five percent of the planet’s plant and animal species. Costa Rica is also classified as one of the top 10 most important destinations in the world regarding the environment and is often considered a leader in ecotourism.
All of this makes it a prime destination for ecotourists. Whether you live in Tamarindo and want to take advantage of what the area has to offer, or are visiting the area and want to check out some new activities, chances are you have thought about participating in ecotourism. This column is a guide for staying green while still experiencing ecotourism to its full potential.
Firstly, “ecotourism” does not necessarily translate to being green or environmentally friendly. In fact, assuming that you are being environmentally friendly while participating in ecotourism is a common misconception. Ecotourism is simply wanting to observe nature to some degree, whether it be casually through hiking, in an adventure manner through river rafting, or scientifically through studying. However, participating in ecotourism does not necessarily mean preserving the ecosystem you are in is a priority. In fact, some ecotourism activities can actually be destructive to the environment and not “green” at all.
The Costa Rican government is very aware of how important ecotourism is to the economy. The government is also aware of how necessary it is to protect the country’s environment and ecosystems in order for ecotourism - and tourism in general - to continue thriving. From taking steps to becoming carbon neutral and supporting carbon neutral airlines such as NatureAir to supporting activities and tours that are environmentally sustainable and beneficial to local communities, the Costa Rican government is very “greenly” aware.
One of the most significant steps they have taken in preserving the natural beauty of the country while still encouraging tourism is to establish the Certification of Sustainable Tourism (CST). CST is a program that evaluates and rates tourism companies on how environmentally sustainable they are. Each company is rated on a level from one to five, with five being the highest (most sustainable) rating possible. The evaluations are based on four aspects: physical-biological barriers; infrastructure and services; external clients; and socio-economic environment. For example, to achieve a level three category, it is necessary to comply with at least 60 percent of the established conditions for the four areas evaluated. Participation in the program is free and completely voluntary on the part of the companies.
Establishing programs such as CST is one way to ensure that your ecotourism activities are actually eco-friendly. That being said, there are plenty of ways to participate in ecotourism while still being green and supporting the environment. Often, people think of ecotourism in Costa Rica as being inland in places such as Monteverde and La Fortuna, but the Tamarindo area has just has much to offer while still getting a good dose of the sun and beach.
One of the most environmentally-friendly activities to do is canopy tours. Originally created with the scientific intent to study the flora, fauna, and ecosystems living in the treetops of Costa Rica, canopy tours now also provide tourists with the option to explore exciting rainforest environments with minimal impact on their surroundings. Estuary tours and turtle tours are also excellent ways to experience ecotourism. Again, these tours are minimally invasive to the surrounding environments, but they still give tourists a chance to experience nature in a way in which they might not otherwise be able. Even sport fishing can be eco-friendly because of Costa Rica’s catch-and-release policy. There are numerous tour companies located in Tamarindo that can help you book the exact eco-friendly tour you want.
The Tamarindo and Playa Grande area is also well-known for its environmentally-friendly policies because of Tamarindo National Wildlife Sanctuary and Las Baulas National Marine Park which protects the leatherback turtles in the area. One of the forerunners in environmental awareness and ecotourism is Hotel Las Tortugas, located in Playa Grande. Hotel Las Tortugas, as they say on their website, realizes that “safeguarding this unique environment (of Costa Rica) is the smartest way to maintain a strong economy through tourism, as well as to ensure a better future for all.” The structure of the hotel was created with the turtles in mind and is a model for ecotourism and sustainable development. Other hotels in the area that are green are Hotel Bahia Langosta, a four-star hotel with a CST rating of three, and Hotel Villa Baula in Playa Grande, with a CST level of two.
Ultimately, the great thing about participating in ecotourism in a “green” manner is that you are helping to save fragile environments for generations to come. However, the focus should go past ecotourism and transcend to the value of sustainable tourism. This way, tourism occurs with minimum impact on the environment and natural areas are protected, yet the necessary tourist income can still be produced. Costa Rica’s biodiversity is one its most valuable assets, and we must do everything we can do keep it thriving.

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