Your Guide to Enjoying the best Ecotourism
Costa Rica is often hailed as the “poster child” of ecotourism, and for good reason. With its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and an eco-conscious mindset deeply embedded in the culture, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to explore without harming the environment. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep connection with nature, Costa Rica offers the best of all worlds.
But what does it mean to truly enjoy the best of ecotourism in Costa Rica? In this blog post, I’ll walk you through some of the most eco-friendly activities, accommodations, and tips to make your trip unforgettable while staying kind to Mother Earth.
1. Stay in Eco-Friendly Lodges
One of the most important aspects of ecotourism is where you choose to stay. In Costa Rica, you’ll find plenty of accommodations that prioritize sustainability and harmony with nature.
Tips for Finding Eco-Friendly Lodging:
- Look for certifications like CST (Certification for Sustainable Tourism), which is a Costa Rican initiative that certifies hotels and lodges based on their environmental and social practices.
- Choose solar-powered lodges or those that use renewable energy.
- Opt for lodges that have a low-impact design, such as treehouses or cabins that blend into the natural landscape without disturbing wildlife.
Some fantastic options include Lapa Rios Lodge on the Osa Peninsula, which is solar-powered and surrounded by a private rainforest reserve, or Finca Rosa Blanca near San José, which offers a luxurious stay in an organic coffee plantation.
By choosing eco-friendly lodging, you’ll not only reduce your carbon footprint but also immerse yourself more deeply in Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
2. Explore National Parks and Wildlife Reserves
Costa Rica is home to 28 national parks, and a quarter of the country is protected territory! This is where Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation really shines, and these parks provide the best way to witness the country’s incredible biodiversity up close.
Must-Visit National Parks:
- Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula is often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica” due to its diverse range of species. You can hike through rainforests, spot scarlet macaws, tapirs, and even jaguars if you’re lucky!
- Manuel Antonio National Park is smaller but offers a perfect mix of white-sand beaches and lush jungle, with plenty of monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a magical place where you can walk along suspended bridges through the misty cloud forest, spotting hummingbirds, orchids, and exotic frogs.
When visiting, stick to designated trails, don’t disturb wildlife, and leave no trace. This allows future visitors to enjoy these pristine areas as well.
3. Go on a Wildlife Safari
Costa Rica boasts some of the richest biodiversity in the world. And what better way to experience it than going on a wildlife safari?
Whether you’re gliding down a jungle river or walking through dense forests, Costa Rica offers a variety of eco-friendly ways to see its amazing creatures.
Wildlife Safari Tips:
- Take a guided tour. Local guides are experts at spotting animals and sharing interesting facts about their habitat. Plus, they ensure you follow ethical wildlife-watching practices.
- Go on a river safari at Tortuguero National Park. Drift along the river and spot howler monkeys, caimans, and toucans, or visit during turtle nesting season to see sea turtles laying eggs on the beaches.
- Snorkel or scuba dive at Cahuita National Park to explore the vibrant coral reefs and spot marine life like reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
By supporting locally run tours, you’re also contributing to the community and helping promote sustainable practices that protect the wildlife.
4. Trek Through Rainforests and Cloud Forests
Costa Rica’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from tropical rainforests to misty cloud forests. Hiking is a great way to immerse yourself in these environments, giving you an up-close look at the flora and fauna.
Best Hiking Spots:
- Arenal Volcano National Park: You can hike around the base of the impressive Arenal Volcano, which last erupted in 2010. Along the way, you’ll encounter lava fields, hot springs, and a chance to see wildlife like coatis, toucans, and monkeys.
- La Fortuna Waterfall: If you love waterfalls, this short hike leads you to one of the most stunning in Costa Rica, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear water below.
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: For something truly unique, hike through the misty forests of Monteverde. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a different world, with giant ferns, towering trees, and the constant sound of wildlife all around you.
To minimize your impact, always stay on the trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and make sure to follow any specific guidelines for the park or reserve you’re visiting.
5. Embrace Sustainable Activities
Costa Rica offers an abundance of activities for eco-conscious travelers, and many of them are geared towards preserving the environment while still offering an exhilarating experience.
Top Sustainable Activities:
- Zip-lining through the forest canopy is one of the most thrilling ways to see Costa Rica’s forests. Look for companies that practice sustainability, like Sky Adventures in Monteverde, which prioritizes environmental conservation.
- Surfing is huge in Costa Rica, with world-class waves on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Choose surf schools that promote eco-friendly practices and beach conservation.
- Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in Golfo Dulce is another great way to explore the waters without leaving a negative impact on the environment. Plus, you might see dolphins or even whale sharks during certain times of the year!
Sustainable activities are not only fun but give you the peace of mind that you’re enjoying Costa Rica’s natural beauty without causing harm.
6. Eat Local and Organic
Food plays an important role in any travel experience, and Costa Rica offers plenty of opportunities to dine sustainably. The country has a growing farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms.
Tips for Eating Sustainably:
- Choose local over imported. Costa Rica’s cuisine is packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Try the traditional Casado, which includes rice, beans, salad, plantains, and your choice of protein, or snack on empanadas made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Support organic farms. Many eco-lodges and restaurants grow their own organic produce or source from nearby farms. If you’re staying in a rural area, look for farm-to-table dining experiences.
By eating locally and choosing organic when possible, you’re supporting the local economy and reducing your carbon footprint.
7. Practice “Pura Vida” Mindfulness
Costa Rica is known for the phrase “Pura Vida”, which translates to “pure life.” It’s more than just a slogan—it’s a way of life that embraces simplicity, appreciation for nature, and happiness.
When you’re in Costa Rica, embrace the Pura Vida mindset by taking things slow, being present, and appreciating the beauty around you. Whether you’re hiking in the jungle or watching the sunset over the ocean, practicing mindfulness will help you connect more deeply with nature.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica is one of the world’s best destinations for ecotourism, offering travelers the chance to experience its incredible biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and sustainable lifestyle. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in sustainable activities, and embracing the Pura Vida spirit, you can enjoy the best of what Costa Rica has to offer while leaving a positive impact on the environment. Happy travels!