Sustainable tourism development must be seen as the balanced intention to use appropriately our natural and cultural resources, to improve the quality of life of local communities and to obtain economic success in the activity, which will also contribute to the national development. Tourism sustainability is not only the answer to the demand, but also an essential condition to successfully compete now, and in the future. (Definition of Tourism Sustainability, CST 1997)
Sustainability, as a model for development, suggests the need to satisfy society’s current requirements, without compromising the right of future generations to satisfy theirs. This means that the development of the country cannot be based on the excessive exploitation of the resources (natural, cultural, social, etc.) to cover the lacks of the population (food, housing, health, employment…) because these resources are the only ones future generations of this country have to satisfy their own needs.
Author Stefania Guglielmi lists Costa Rica as one of The Top 24 Ecotourism Destinations for 2024, in this post from Feb. 17, 2023, on Every Steph.
Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, volcanoes, and biodiversity. Much of Costa Rica is protected jungle, alive with wildlife including a variety of monkeys, exotic birds, and frogs. The country offers both cloud forest and rainforest, both interesting and breathtaking.
Hotels and resorts throughout the country offer sustainable ecotourism and are rated the ICT’s Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) program. Many hotels and resorts serve organic food; landscape their grounds with lush tropical plants and flowers; and conserve and recycle their resources.
Different types of ecotourism options include excursions to one of the country’s volcanos (including Poas and Arenal); daytime and nighttime nature hikes; whitewater rafting; tours of the country’s coffee region ;visiting the white-faced Capuchin monkeys; birding; and visits to the thermal hot springs. For the best weather, visit between mid-December and April, Costa Rica’s dry season.
For a different kind of experience, you can also volunteer and help with the sea turtle conservation or volunteer with local coffee growers who practice sustainable farming.
