Sustainable travel in Costa Rica - 6 ultimate tips

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How to travel sustainably in Costa Rica, we tell you today. The country is already very committed to sustainability and is already supplied with 98 % of renewable energy. A quarter of the country's land is also protected areas, which protect biodiversity. We give you six simple travel tips that will make your stay in Costa Rica more responsible. 

Sustainability at first glance

It would be great if all you had to do locally was look for a trustworthy seal that identifies responsible businesses, right? 

This is exactly what has existed in Costa Rica since 1997.

The official seal "Certificacíon de Turismos Sostenible" (CST) draws attention to sustainable tourism businesses. Behind the certificate are government agencies, scientific and economic representatives, and international organizations. The seal is intended to specifically prevent greenwashing, with the World Trousim Organization confirming the great effectiveness of the project.

The goal is conservation, improved quality of life for local communities, and engaging tourists in achieving sustainability goals.

Sustainable Travel In Costa Rica

From A to B

There are many options to get around Costa Rica: private shuttles, rental cars, domestic flights and so on. However, the most environmentally friendly option is to use the public transportation network. From the capital San José, you can choose from the numerous bus lines that will take you to your desired destination.

It is time consuming to travel by bus, but it is the cheapest way to get around there. Some of the buses are equipped with air conditioners, which make the trip more comfortable. In addition, on longer routes, drivers take small breaks at rest stops, where you can have snacks or meals.

The following bus lines will take you to Costa Rica's most popular places:

  • Monteverde: Transmonteverde departs daily at 14h 30 to Monteverde. The trip usually takes 5h 30m.
  • Santa Teresa: With Transportes Cóbano you can get from San José to Santa Teresa in just 5 hours. The bus leaves once a day at 6:30 am and takes you to your destination after a ferry crossing. 
  • Puerto Viejo: The bus companies Grupo Caribenos and Mepe go to Puertoviejo 15 times a day. You can take the first bus at 5am and the last one at 7pm. You can expect a journey time between 4h 30m and 5h 30m.
Sustainable Travel In Costa Rica

Sustainable souvenirs

Buying souvenirs is part of a trip for many. Remember, your receipt is your ballot, you decide what you want your purchase to do. Unfortunately, many large markets sell only imported souvenirs, for example, this is the case at San José's Mercado Central.

A great alternative is to support the local community by buying directly from small artists and markets. Sarchi, a town near San José, is known for art and typical crafts. Guaitil, in Guanacaste, is the place to buy ceramics from the indigenous Chorotega people. In general, souvenirs made of fur and feathers of (endangered) animals as well as shells and corals should be avoided.

Sustainable Travel In Costa Rica

Working and learning on vacation?

In Costa Rica there are countless offers for volunteering and workshops. Here you can either become part of environmental, animal or marine conservation. Many locals also offer workshops on various topics, such as permaculture, chocolate making or language schools. This way you can learn new things during your stay and also directly support the local economy. You can inform yourself about possible projects before your stay or look for interesting workshops on site. The following organizations can help you with your research:

  • ACTUAR (Costa Rica Association of Community-based Rural Tourism)
  • ATEC (Talamanca Association of Ecotorism and Conservation)
  • COOPRENA
Sustainable Travel In Costa Rica

Good preparation is everything

In order to produce as little waste as possible on site, it is advisable to be well prepared when packing. Various items can help you avoid disposable plastic. The tap water in Costa Rica is drinkable, so it is worth taking a water bottle with you.

We also recommend:

  • A reusable straw (perfect for coconuts),
  • Reusable tableware,
  • a shopping bag,
  • and bring environmentally friendly cosmetic products.

So you are well prepared for any everyday situation and do not need any consumption of disposable products

Off the beaten track

Even though a visit to the well-known travel destinations is absolutely worthwhile, it is additionally recommended to visit more remote destinations. There you can find the real Costa Rica and strengthen the local economy.

We therefore offer you a mix of both and provide for unforgettable adventures in the tropical paradise. Us is Sustainability on the road at least as important as you, which is why we support local businesses. We also offset 100 % of the CO₂ emissions generated by our journey together.

So do not hesitate and experience with us the true Pura Vida in a sustainable way. We have already given you the ultimate Costa Rica packing list prepared and tell you about the beautiful beaches of the country.

For more travel inspiration we also provide daily on Instagram.

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