Sustainable Travel in Costa Rica: Your Essential Guide

Welcome to Costa Rica, a beacon of sustainability and a haven for those who cherish the natural world. Covering just 0.03% of the Earth’s surface, Costa Rica is a testament to the wonders of biodiversity, containing nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity within its borders. At Nantipa Hotel in Santa Teresa, we offer you more than just a stay — we invite you to immerse yourself in a lifestyle that harmonizes with our lush surroundings and vibrant culture. This guide is designed to enrich your journey, providing you with sustainable travel tips that align with our commitment to preserving the unparalleled beauty and rich heritage of our corner of paradise. Join us in embracing a way of travel that not only respects the environment and local communities but also enhances your experience, making your visit to Costa Rica an unforgettable part of your sustainable life journey.

As you settle in, we encourage you to engage with Nantipa Hotel’s sustainability initiatives. From water conservation measures to our recycling programs, your participation amplifies our collective impact. We’re proud to offer various eco-friendly activities and amenities that allow you to enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica while contributing to our environmental goals.

So, let’s explore four key areas where your travel choices can have an easy yet profound impact, ensuring your visit is as enriching for Costa Rica as it is for you.

Sustainable Packing List

Packing smart not only lightens your luggage but also your environmental footprint. When visiting a biodiverse paradise like Costa Rica, where the natural environment is both a treasure and a responsibility, bringing along eco-friendly essentials can make a significant difference. Here are essentials for a sustainable trip to Costa Rica, ensuring you’re prepared for adventure while contributing positively to the preservation of this unique destination.

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink in most areas, so a durable water bottle is a must-have to stay hydrated without plastic waste.
  • Reef-Friendly Sunblock: Protect your skin and marine life with sunblock that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
  • Eco-Friendly Bug Repellent: Opt for natural or DEET-free options to keep the bugs at bay without harming the ecosystem.
  • Biodegradable Toiletries: At Nantipa, we provide guests with refillable toiletries, including shampoo and soap, to minimize waste and environmental impact. Should you prefer to bring your own, choosing biodegradable products is a thoughtful way to further reduce your footprint.
  • Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing: Ideal for Costa Rica’s climate, these clothes reduce laundry needs and conserve water.

Wildlife Respect

Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity is one of its most extraordinary treasures, attracting nature lovers from all corners of the globe. Respecting wildlife and their habitats is paramount to ensuring these natural wonders continue to thrive. Engaging with the environment responsibly allows us to witness the beauty of nature without disrupting the delicate balance that sustains it. Below are key considerations and tips for interacting with Costa Rica’s wildlife in a way that honors their rightful place in the ecosystem and ensures their preservation for years to come.

  • Guided Tours: Opt for local eco-guides who can provide insights without disturbing the wildlife. Our concierge service is ready to organize a range of nature-based experiences for you, carefully selecting from our curated list of responsible partners. This ensures your adventures contribute positively to the local ecosystem and community.
  • Keep Distance: Always maintain a respectful distance from animals to avoid stressing them.
  • No Feeding: Feeding wildlife can alter their natural behaviors and diet. Enjoy watching them, but let them find their own food.

Support Local Economies

The heart of Costa Rica’s charm lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its vibrant communities and rich cultural heritage. Supporting local economies is a powerful way to contribute to sustainable development and enrich your travel experience. By choosing to spend your money on local businesses, eateries, and artisans, you’re investing in the community’s growth and sustainability. This approach fosters a deeper connection to the places you visit and provides a more authentic insight into Costa Rican life and traditions. Here’s how you can make a positive impact on the local economy while enjoying the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people.

  • Local Dining: Choose restaurants that use local, sustainably sourced ingredients. Nantipa Hotel’s restaurant is a prime example, offering delicious meals that support local farmers. Our concierge can provide a list of recommended restaurants, ensuring you experience the best of local cuisine while supporting the community.
  • Crafts and Souvenirs: Purchase from local artisans to help keep traditional crafts alive and support local economies. Look for shops and markets that sell authentic local products. We are proud to partner with and recommend a variety of local artisans and shops known for their quality and commitment to sustainability. Our concierge service is available to guide you to these unique spots, making it easier for you to find meaningful souvenirs and gifts that contribute positively to the local economy.

Environmental Care

Costa Rica is a global leader in conservation and environmental management, making it a prime destination for eco-conscious travelers. Practicing environmental care during your visit plays a crucial role in maintaining the country’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Simple, mindful actions can significantly reduce your ecological footprint, supporting Costa Rica’s efforts to remain a verdant and thriving paradise. From waste reduction to water conservation, these tips will help you travel more sustainably, ensuring that Costa Rica continues to be a beacon of environmental stewardship for the world to see.

  • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Be mindful of waste. Refuse single-use plastics and participate in Nantipa’s recycling programs. In partnership with the Nicoya Peninsula Waterkeepers, we are committed to preserving our pristine environment through dedicated efforts in waste management and water conservation. Your participation helps support these vital initiatives, ensuring the beauty of Costa Rica for future generations.
  • Water Conservation: Water is precious. Reuse towels and avoid long showers. Nantipa provides options for guests to easily conserve water.
  • Support Conservation Efforts: Engage in activities that contribute to local conservation, such as beach clean-ups or donating to environmental organizations. At Nantipa, we’ve made it easy and accessible for our guests to contribute through the beach cleanup station located at Manzú Restaurant. We invite you to join a quick 10-minute beach clean-up at any time during your stay. This simple act of stewardship not only enhances the beauty of our shores but also supports our broader commitment to preserving the natural environment.

Engage in Volunteer Experiences

To further enrich your journey, consider engaging in volunteer experiences that allow you to give back directly to the community and environment. Visiting our local animal rescue center offers a hands-on way to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts, while spending time at local schools can foster cultural exchange and support education. These experiences not only deepen your understanding of Costa Rica’s environmental and social fabric but also leave a lasting positive impact on the places and lives you touch.

For those interested in participating in these meaningful activities, our concierge service is here to assist. We can provide you with all the necessary information and help you book these volunteer experiences. Whether it’s contributing to our local wildlife conservation efforts or supporting education in our community, we’ll make sure your involvement is as impactful and rewarding as possible.

Your journey to Costa Rica can be as enriching for the planet as it is for you. By choosing sustainable practices and supporting local communities, you make a real difference. Nantipa Hotel is here to support your eco-friendly adventure, ensuring a stay that’s both memorable and meaningful. Join us in making your visit a vibrant part of your sustainable life journey, leaving a positive footprint in our cherished paradise.

For more information on Nantipa’s sustainability efforts and how you can contribute, visit our website at https://www.nantipa.com/sustainability/. Let’s make your visit a significant stride towards a more sustainable world.

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa Joins Virtuoso Culinary & Sustainability Community!

Tabacón has always strived to be a positive leader in the La Fortuna region, and its entry into the exclusive Virtuoso communities aligns perfectly with its commitment to excellence. From unforgettable Food and Beverage to Hands-On experiences such as local culture and the environment.

Tabacón’s presence in the Virtuoso Culinary & Sustainability Communities allows it not only to offer the most exclusive culinary and sustainable experiences but also to support local economies and protect the planet. The resort is dedicated to celebrating culture, deeply connecting to Costa Rica’s essence through culinary experiences, and prioritizing environmentally friendly practices, all while creating unforgettable memories.

Visitors to Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa can embark on a culinary journey. They can enjoy a coffee tasting, wine and tapas pairing, a Tico Chef Class, and a Cocktail Briefing. The Ephemeral Table, a 6-course chef’s table in a rainforest bungalow, should not be missed. Each dish served here comes with a story of inspiration, ingredient origins, and creative pairings. Guests can discover the essence of Costa Rica, experience exceptional service, and immerse themselves in nature with every bite and sip.

“Thrilled to be a part of Virtuoso’s culinary community and proudly crafting unforgettable culinary experiences at our Tabacón home with joy and dedication.”  Saúl Umaña, Culinary  Director.

At Tabacón, the focus is on celebrating Costa Rican culture while supporting the local community and preserving the environment. The resort actively incorporates native elements into wellness services and gastronomy, engages with local initiatives and businesses, and commits to resource conservation through initiatives like solar energy, biodiversity protection, and reforestation programs. Tabacón holds esteemed certifications that reflect its dedication to these values.

“We are very excited to host the first annual excellence in education awards this February and to recognize top performances in our schools” commented Shirley Mora, Tabacon’s leader in Corporate Social Responsibility.

Tabacón’s goal is to tailor guests’ journeys precisely to their interests, experiences, and expertise. It’s not just about offering a getaway; it’s about creating unforgettable memories that resonate with guests’ souls.

Tabacón looks forward to welcoming visitors to its haven of relaxation and culinary excellence.

Discover more about Tabacon’s commitment in its 2022 sustainability report.