Best eco-friendly accommodations in Costa Rica for sustainable travelers

Posted on: January 01, 2025

Eco-Friendly Accommodations in Costa Rica: A Sustainable Traveler's Paradise

Costa Rica has long been hailed as a haven for nature lovers and sustainable travelers. The country's commitment to conservation and its rich biodiversity make it an ideal destination for those seeking eco-friendly accommodations. In this exploration, we'll uncover some of the best places to stay that not only offer comfort but also minimize the environmental impact.

Monteverde: The Birthplace of Sustainable Tourism

In Monteverde, the roots of sustainable tourism run deep. The Belmar family's Hotel Belmar, established in 1985, is a prime example. Surrounded by fruit trees and organic vegetable gardens on the edge of the cloud forest, it feels like an oasis within an oasis. The rooms are lined with honey-colored wood, and the huge wraparound terrace and nature soundtrack outside the windows provide a truly immersive experience. Early in the morning, you'll be greeted by the sounds of pale-billed woodpeckers and green parakeets.

The town's history is intertwined with conservation efforts. In 1951, a group of Quakers arrived and later worked with scientists to establish the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. Today, Hotel Belmar's founder, Vera Zeledón, runs a carbon-neutral farm that supplies produce to the hotel's restaurant, creating a circular system of sustainability.

Santa Teresa: A Bohemian Beach Town with a Sustainable Soul

Santa Teresa, a bohemian beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, has transformed from a quiet fishing village into a surfer's paradise. Hotel Nantipa, owned by Harry Hartman and Mario Mikowski, embodies the town's commitment to sustainability. Only six trees were removed during construction, and they have developed strict sustainability standards that support local initiatives and ensure tourism benefits the local community.

Beyond the hotel, you can meet local providers like Tico fisherman Jason Rodriguez Ugalde, who runs charters off the coast near Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve. The town also plays a role in sea turtle conservation at the Caletas-Arío National Wildlife Reserve, where efforts are being made to protect endangered species despite challenges like arson attacks.

Osa Peninsula: A Biodiversity Hotspot and Eco-Lodge Haven

The Osa Peninsula is a nature lover's dream, home to an astonishing amount of biodiversity. Lapa Rios Lodge, one of Costa Rica's first eco-lodges, was founded in 1993 by Karen and John Lewis. Their vision of conserving the land through tourism has led to a thriving lodge that continues to protect the rainforest and provide unforgettable experiences for guests.

Guests at Lapa Rios can enjoy activities like early morning birding tours and hikes to nearby waterfalls, all while surrounded by the raw beauty of the rainforest. The staff, inspired by the environment, actively participates in local environmental education.

Conclusion

Costa Rica offers a plethora of eco-friendly accommodations that not only provide a comfortable stay but also allow sustainable travelers to be part of the country's conservation efforts. From the cloud forests of Monteverde to the beaches of Santa Teresa and the biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula, these accommodations are a testament to Costa Rica's dedication to protecting its natural treasures. By choosing to stay in these places, travelers can contribute to a more sustainable future while experiencing the pure life that Costa Rica has to offer.