Sustainable Tourism - Costa Rica

What percentage of Costa Rica's GDP comes from tourism?

Tourism accounts for about 8.2% of Costa Rica’s GDP.

How many tourists visit Costa Rica annually?

Around 3 million tourists visit Costa Rica each year.

What attracts tourists to Costa Rica?

Tourists are drawn to Costa Rica’s biodiversity, rainforests, national parks, and eco-friendly tourism initiatives.

What is Costa Rica’s approach to tourism?

Costa Rica focuses on ecotourism to minimize environmental impact and support conservation.

What percentage of Costa Rica’s land is protected?

Around 25% of Costa Rica’s land is protected through national parks and reserves.

What eco-friendly activities are popular in Costa Rica?

Eco-friendly activities include bird watching, hiking, and wildlife tours.

What environmental laws support Costa Rica’s conservation efforts?

Costa Rica has strong laws like the Biodiversity Law and the Forest Law to conserve natural habitats.

What success has Costa Rica had with reforestation?

Since the 1980s, Costa Rica has reversed deforestation, and as of 2021, more than 50% of its land is covered in forest.

What is the primary source of Costa Rica's electricity?

Costa Rica generates over 98% of its electricity from renewable sources like hydropower, geothermal, wind, and solar energy.

What is community-based tourism in Costa Rica?

Community-based tourism includes locally run lodges and tours that preserve cultural heritage and support local economies.

What is the Rural Community Tourism (TCR) program?

The TCR program provides tourists with authentic experiences like farming, cooking, and handicrafts while benefiting local communities.

What is Costa Rica’s Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST)?

The CST program certifies businesses meeting strict environmental and social standards, rated from 1 to 5 “leaves.”

How does the CST program rate businesses?

CST rates businesses on sustainability practices, including energy efficiency, waste management, and community involvement.

How many jobs does tourism generate in Costa Rica?

Tourism generates employment for about 600,000 people directly and indirectly.

How does tourism impact rural areas in Costa Rica?

Tourism reduces rural-urban migration by creating jobs in rural areas, such as family-owned lodges and eco-friendly farms.

What challenges does Costa Rica face from overtourism?

Overtourism in places like Manuel Antonio National Park and Monteverde stresses local ecosystems.

What role do carbon emissions play in Costa Rica’s sustainability challenges?

Carbon emissions from air travel and tourist influxes challenge Costa Rica’s sustainability goals.

How does Costa Rica mitigate tourism-related environmental impacts?

The government limits visitors to sensitive areas, and eco-lodges participate in carbon offset programs by planting trees.

What is Costa Rica’s carbon-neutral goal?

Costa Rica aims to become one of the world’s first carbon-neutral countries, with tourism playing a key role.

How is sustainable tourism education promoted in Costa Rica?

Sustainability education is integrated into school programs and community outreach, raising environmental awareness among locals and tourists.

How are tourists encouraged to participate in conservation efforts?

Tourists can volunteer in wildlife rescue centers, sea turtle conservation projects, and reforestation initiatives.