Costa Rica’s Ecotourism Industry
Ecotourism appeals to the increasing number of travelers who are longing for an opportunity to explore environments that have yet to be touched by modern amenities. This new trend in travel abandons luxurious five star hotels and lavish dining experiences. The tourists drawn to this industry are not concerned with the thread count in their sheets, comfy robes, or the promptness of room service. Rather they seek out adventures to natural areas which focus on the conservation of the environment as well as the welfare of the local community.
Globally there are numerous organizations that specialize in this recreational and educational travel based industry. Asia, Africa and Costa Rica seem to be the preferred destinations for eco-conscious travelers. Recognizing this Costa Rica has actively turned to ecotourism as a key factor in its economic development. With scenic beaches, massive volcanoes, a lush rain forest, and exotic wildlife this country has a strong biodiversity which lends itself to this ever popular form of travel. In 2000 Costa Rica received a $40 million dollar loan from the World Bank. These funds were used to create a unique program which paid landowners not to cut down their forests. This form of international support continues to give Costa Rica a degree of financial stability in handling the substantial costs for developing and maintaining their ecotourism industry.
Carara National Park is one of Costa Rica’s many biological reserves and wildlife refuges. With its close proximity to San Jose this is the perfect testing ground for non seasoned ecotravelers. By offering guided tours, as well as the opportunity to explore as individuals, Carara can provide an entire day of adventure for only an $8 dollar admission fee. Carara is just on the list of over 30 different destinations that Costa Rica offers for those interested in exploring ecotourism. If you are interested in taking a vacation that is literally off the beaten path, www.keytocostarica.com and www.ecotourdirectory.com are wonderful references for assisting you with your planning. �
Tags: Carara National Park, ecotourism, nature, vacation
February 24th, 2008 at 9:33 am
We stayed at an amazing place that was up in the mountains just miles from the beaches at Dominical. This beautiful lodge had single rooms you could book, or you could lease the entire place for a little over $300 a night. It was like having an entire hotel to yourself. The lodge can be seen at www.lasaguas.com. It is on over 60 acres of lush forest located at a higher elevation with an almost perfect climate including warm days and cool nights. There are several trails on the grounds that end up at amazing waterfalls. There is an awesome pool, jacuzzi, and even a theater room. There was wireless internet throughout the hotel, or a computer in the theater room, in case you forgot your laptop, like we did.
Las Aguas was the perfect fit for us, and I think for anyone who wants the an authentic Costa Rican experience. 5 stars!!!!!!
February 27th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Does anyone have suggestions on Costa Rican spas that cater to an eco-friendly crowd?
March 5th, 2008 at 1:52 am
I’m not sure on what part of Costa Rica you will be in but my favorite spa is 30 mins outside San Jose. Rancho Pacifico Resort is home to Spa Tranquila. This boutique hotel is quaint and focused on bringing the indoors out and vice versa. Nature is the main decor here however the place still offers a sense of elegance. So no need to worry about sleeping in a mosquito net. Most of the spa treatments are done outside which just adds to the over experience. The yoga classes are also out in the elements and if you can get into the early morning class it’s a wonderful way to start your day. Now most of their spa products are natural however there is a separate area where you can get Botox at their Medi-Spa. Obviously this resort has a little of everything so being adventurous is your choice. You can go & explore the grounds or sip champagne while getting Botox. If it sounds like heaven…it is.
-Mary
March 11th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
I’ve just heard of a new resort pegged as “eco-luxurious”. It’s a newly constructed Four Seasons Resort located on the Peninsula Papagayo. With the average price tag at $2,000 a night I think this is just purely eco-expensive. There’s no opportunity here to save the three toed sloth or learn about the native people. It seems like “eco” in now being used as a marketing tool rather than a legitimate movement for the environment. I would hope that anyone interested in truly preserving nature would thoroughly research a resorts program before making a reservation.
March 13th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Timarai Bamboo Resort has an amazing spa. You sleep in bungalows made from bamboo and stucco. They truly utilized natural materials for the construction and decor of the resort. The breakfast that’s included is nothing to wake up early for but that’s my only complaint. There are some great pics at 2costarica.com.
-LC
March 18th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
This is probably the wrong forum for this question but I can’t find a more appropriate article. Does anyone know if you have to receive vaccinations prior to traveling to Costa Rica? PS. We are taking a missionary trip to remote areas and will primarily be camping along the way. Not sure if that makes a difference or not.
March 24th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
The region of Costa Rica that you will be traveling to and the length of your stay can be determining factors in the types of vaccinations that are recommended. Here is just a general list for travelers: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B, MMR(Measles, mumps, rubella),Tetanus-diphtheria. You may want to also ask your physician about a Malaria vaccination. Keep in mind you should see your physician 4-8 weeks prior to your departure.
March 26th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
You may be able to avoid the Hepatitis B vaccination. A physician usually suggests this only if you are visiting for more than 6 months and if there is a chance you could have intimate contact with local residents. I know you mentioned that you were doing some type of missionary work. If you will be providing medical related services this would constitute as intimate contact. I’m assuming that you’re not in the medical field so I think you will be fine without it.