Sustainable Travel in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the pioneer of ecotourism — but not every "Eco" label is genuine. Here's how to travel truly sustainably:

CST Certification

The Certificación para la Sostenibilidad Turística (CST) is Costa Rica's official sustainability seal for hotels, tour operators, and restaurants. The rating ranges from 1–5 leaves. Hotels with 4–5 leaves engage in serious environmental protection: solar energy, rainwater use, local employment, waste management. Look for the CST logo when booking.

Practical Tips

• Eco-Lodges instead of All-Inclusive Resorts: The money stays in the local economy
• Hire Local Guides: Not through international platforms, but directly on-site. The money goes to the community.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens are banned in national parks. Use mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium oxide).
• Avoid Plastic Bottles: Tap water is drinkable in most places! A reusable bottle saves hundreds of plastic bottles per trip.
• No Wildlife Selfies: The "Selfie with Sloth" promotes illegal wildlife trade. Photograph animals from a distance.
• Eat in Sodas instead of Chains: Support the local economy, eat authentically, pay less.
• Carbon Offset: Your long-haul flight to Costa Rica generates about 3 tons of CO₂. Costa Rica's FONAFIFO program offers official carbon offsets.

Volunteering

Costa Rica offers many reputable volunteer programs:

• Turtle Conservation: In Tortuguero, Ostional, and Pacuare (1–4 weeks, from 200 USD/week incl. accommodation)
• Rainforest Reforestation: Osa Conservation on the Osa Peninsula
• Wildlife Rescue: Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo — care for injured and orphaned wildlife