Sustainable Travel in Costa Rica: More Than Meets the Eye
If you're thinking of coming to Costa Rica, chances are you have beaches, palm trees, nature, national parks, volcanoes, sunshine, and wildlife on your mind. You know, all the good stuff that makes a vacation here so appealing! But there's also an addition to all that, a "secret sauce," if you will, that improves these commendable reasons to travel. And that's Costa Rica's reputation for ethical and sustainable tourism that gives back to local communities.
While other countries often recommend tourists stay within the compounds of their resorts when not on tour, Costa Rica is different.
In Costa Rica, it's easy for travelers to get out of their hotels and walk around their local communities, engaging with local people. It's easy, in Costa Rica, to feel like you're a part of things, that you're contributing and interacting with local life in ways you might not be able to elsewhere.
In this article, we'll explore how engaging with and staying among local communities in Costa Rica will enhance your vacation in so many ways—whether it is beach communities, rural and indigenous locales, or even the cities. You'll even find out how staying in many Costa Rican hotels makes you, automatically, an active participant in sustainable tourism initiatives.
Discover how your presence in Costa Rica contributes to the economic well-being of local families and how your patronage supports local businesses in Costa Rica, ensuring that the fruits of tourism are shared equitably. This, after all, could be one of the true definitions of Pura Vida.
Understanding the Heartbeat of Costa Rican Communities
While beaches and rainforests are all good, the key to an authentic Costa Rica travel experience lies with the people. Plenty of other countries have beautiful tropical beaches to enjoy and lush rainforests to explore, but only Costa Rica has Costa Ricans. And it's Costa Ricans who make Costa Rica so special. Over the years, we've lost count of the number of clients who tell us that the highlight of their trip was the local people they met and engaged with.
The population of Costa Rica stands at around 5.2 million people in 2023. Although almost 40% of Costa Rica's population lives in the Central Valley, around the capital of San José and the cities and suburbs of Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago, it remains, at heart, an agrarian society.
There are plenty of opportunities while traversing the country to see just what the lifestyle looks like for most of the country’s population. Though to further understand the significance of what you see, some historical facts can offer more insight.
History Background: Costa Rica’s Rural Origins
The importance of rural life in Costa Rica goes back a long time ago, and it has contributed to much of how the culture of the country developed. Before independence in 1821, Costa Rica spent some 200 years as the southernmost province of the Captaincy General of Guatemala. Its distance from the capital (Antigua, Guatemala) and the absence of valuable metal resources contributed to Costa Rica's status as a poor and isolated region. Indeed, in the early 18th century, a Spanish governor called Costa Rica "the poorest and most miserable Spanish colony in all America."
In addition, the area did not have as big an indigenous population as other parts of Central America, which discouraged the establishment of large haciendas. This is important because the hacienda system—also called encomienda—created a feudal dynamic where rich landowners effectively owned the local land and its mostly indigenous habitants, effectively enslaving them to work on plantations. This system, ubiquitous around most of the region, is the root of many of the political divides and conflicts that have plagued Central America. Costa Rica, in comparison to most of its neighbors, saw less of it.
Most settlers in Costa Rica were, in fact, smaller landowners who cultivated their own land, which fostered the development of a very reduced agrarian society, but one that had a deep connection to the land they were working on, and often with their neighbors as well, since they depended on each other for help. Although most Costa Ricans today are a long way from tilling their own soil, the spirit of this past remains to this day. It's created a real sense of community and is something most Ticos are very proud of. You can take the Costa Rican out of the countryside but you can't take the countryside out of the Costa Rican. If you understand this, it's much easier to understand the Costa Rican psyche and the concept of Pura Vida.
Of course, it's not perfect. Costa Ricans, like everyone else, complain about their politicians, about crime, about taxes, about economic inequality. It's just another country in the world where people have the same problems as anywhere else. But the overall sense of community in Costa Rica, from a local to a national level, is something real, and it goes back to this past as an isolated and poor backwater of the Spanish Empire.
In the long run, this isolation has made Costa Rica notable for being more stable, since it didn’t see as much intervention from the Spaniards as other areas did. To this day, most Costa Ricans don’t have much need to migrate, since the country is quite stable politically and economically. Because of these many reasons, Costa Ricans have been able to become a tight-knit group that generally values a good relationship with their land and their neighbors.
The Strength of Costa Rica's Diverse Communities
So much for the history. While it's important to understand the past to have a grip on the present, it's worth looking into Costa Rican communities today.
As mentioned, most Costa Ricans nowadays live in the Central Valley—in cities, towns, and suburbs, working regular jobs, mostly in the service industries. They don't forget their rural, agrarian roots—that's evident by the popularity of certain cultural activities, such as horse parades ("topes") and oxcart processions, where everyone puts on their cowboy hats and celebrates. However, for the most part, their daily lives are not that much different from most people in North America and Europe.
Outside of the Central Valley, it's far more rural, and most Costa Ricans do work in agriculture. There's the traditional coffee and banana plantations, but there are also pineapples, strawberries, cacao, and so much more growing in the fields. All these are grown both at small and large scales, for sustenance and exportation. There are also cattle ranches, especially in Guanacaste, and there is much fishing along the coasts. In rural Costa Rica, if you're not working in agriculture, chances are you're working in tourism.
Most smaller towns and villages in the country retain that sense of community where everyone knows each other, and this includes tourist communities. People generally pull together for the common good in these places. The need to remain together usually makes these communities a more united front, with neighbors helping each other by building businesses where many of them can participate.
Demographically, Costa Ricans are also quite diverse. Mestizos—those with Spaniard and indigenous ancestors—, Afro-Latinos, indigenous populations, and people of Asian descent are some of the groups that make up the country. In addition, there is a large immigrant population from nearby countries (mainly Nicaragua, Colombia, and Venezuela) as well as a growing number of immigrants from North America and Europe, who frequently band together in expat communities.
Regardless of demographics, what this large variety proves is that most Costa Ricans see themselves and their fellow countrymen as Ticos first and foremost, before anything else. They have pride in their country and culture, no matter what. Again, it's something we see all the time, and clients always tell us. It's a matter of pride for most Ticos, no matter what color they are or where they're from, to show off their love for Costa Rica and all its natural resources. And that, really, when all is said and done, is the essence of Costa Rican community and culture.
Ways to Support for Local Communities in Costa Rica
Most Costa Ricans love their country and genuinely see themselves as stewards of their local environment, and there are many ways for foreign tourists and travelers to participate on that spirit. Below, we list several ways that tourists can support local Costa Rica communities when they visit:
- Consider the hotel you're staying at. Does the hotel treat sustainability as more than just a buzzword? Do they locally source their restaurant ingredients if they can? Do they pay an active role in training and employing local people rather than bringing in outsiders?
- Patronize local businesses. Instead of opting for large multinational chains, seek out locally-owned restaurants, shops, and tour companies. Your patronage directly supports the community's economy and empowers small businesses to thrive.
- Choose authentic experiences. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in community-based activities, such as traditional cooking classes, craft workshops, or guided tours led by locals. These experiences provide valuable insights into the community's way of life and contribute to their economic well-being.
- Support local artisans and craftspeople. Purchase souvenirs and handmade goods directly from local artisans and craftspeople. This ensures that the proceeds from your purchases stay within the community and support the preservation of traditional crafts and skills.
- Respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of local customs and traditions and avoid behaviors that may be considered disrespectful. Demonstrating cultural sensitivity fosters mutual understanding and strengthens the relationship between visitors and the community.
- Engage in meaningful conversations. Strike up conversations with locals, ask questions about their culture and traditions, and share stories about your own background. These interactions create a bridge of understanding and foster a sense of connection.
- Contribute to local causes. If you find a community-based project or initiative that resonates with you, consider making a donation or volunteering your time. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
- Leave a positive impact. Minimize your environmental footprint by practicing responsible tourism habits, such as using reusable water bottles, conserving energy, and disposing of waste properly. Your actions contribute to the preservation of the natural environment that the community cherishes.
It's worth pointing out that Costa Rica is a remarkably easy country to follow these basic rules in. We do a lot of the heavy lifting, in fact, before you even arrive, with the choice of many of our eco-hotels and tour companies we work with. But it's never a bad thing to look at how we can be better tourists and enhance not only our own travel experiences but also the experiences of the local communities we're interacting with.
The Best of Community-Based Tourism
When it comes to supporting local communities as a tourist in Costa Rica, it's also possible to go further than the basic tenets we've listed above. In recent years, not only in Costa Rica but also in many countries around the world, community-based tourism (CBT), has become a real and valid way of doing business. Over the years, traditional tourism models have often been criticized for their negative impacts on local communities. There's a definite image of tourism being an industry that exploits local resources and provides limited economic benefits for locals.
CBT seeks to address these concerns by putting local communities at the center of tourism development and ensuring that they reap a fair share of the profits. It emphasizes local communities to get themselves involved in the planning, development, and operation of tourism activities/projects in their areas. The goal is to create a more sustainable and equitable tourism model that benefits both travelers and locals.
Benefits for Travelers:
- Authentic experiences. CBT provides travelers with opportunities to immerse themselves in local cultures and traditions, gain a deeper understanding of the destination, and forge meaningful connections with locals.
- Sustainable tourism. CBT promotes sustainable tourism practices by supporting local businesses, protecting the environment, and empowering communities to manage their own resources.
- Positive impact. Travelers can feel good about knowing that their visit is making a positive contribution to the local community and its development.
Benefits for Locals:
- Economic development. CBT creates employment opportunities, generates income for local businesses, and promotes the sale of local products and services.
- Cultural preservation. CBT helps to preserve local cultures and traditions by providing a platform for sharing knowledge and skills with visitors.
- Empowerment. CBT empowers communities to take control of their own tourism development and make decisions that benefit their communities.
- Environmental protection. CBT promotes sustainable tourism practices that protect the environment and conserve natural resources.
In Costa Rica, the ICT (Costa Rica's tourism board) has been actively promoting the concept of community-based tourism through their Tourism Development Department. You can read more about what they're doing on their website. Another great example of CBT is at the Santa Juana Lodge, operated by Greentique Hotels in Santa Juana, outside of Quepos.
Volunteer Opportunities in Costa Rica: Lend a Helping Hand
For tourists, one of the best ways of giving back is with time spent volunteering in the country they're traveling to. While many people travel to Costa Rica on specific volunteer programs, spending weeks or months donating their time to a specific cause, that's not the only way to do it. It's certainly possible to spend a morning, afternoon, or a day during your vacation to volunteer. Whether you're full-time volunteering or doing it as part of your vacation, you're doing good by giving back, and that's what's important. Every little bit helps.
If you want to volunteer in Costa Rica, consider what field you want to work in. Costa Rica is most famous in volunteering circles for its ecological projects, and volunteers come from all over the world to take part in wildlife conservation initiatives and rainforest research. An example here would be spending time working on sea turtle nesting projects or a sloth sanctuary, which are popular ways to volunteer. But there are also plenty of social programs to help with, from working with economically deprived kids to teaching English in schools or providing support to indigenous communities.
Another, slightly more lowkey, but no less important way to volunteer is by taking part in a beach cleanup. Oftentimes these are community efforts led by local hotels and surf schools, and they're an excellent way to meet people and spend a morning doing something worthwhile. It all counts!
There are so many different ways to volunteer while on vacation in Costa Rica, so don't hesitate to ask us if this is something you're interested in. We can point you in the direction of various programs and also ensure you're staying in community-minded hotels with eco-practices of their own.
If you're looking for some more long-term ways to volunteer in Costa Rica, then we recommend the guys at Maximo Nivel. They offer programs in a range of different fields and are well-established and reliable.
Authentic Experiences: Exploring Indigenous Communities in Costa Rica
Costa Rica, as we stated earlier, has a smaller and far less visible indigenous community than elsewhere in Central America. Unlike countries like Guatemala or Panamá, where indigenous people are everywhere and their communities are easy to visit, most of Costa Rica’s indigenous communities are in remote, hard-to-reach areas, where regular tourists simply don’t visit. For example, some indigenous Bribri communities in the Talamanca mountains take days to get to, only accessible on foot or horseback. This is the norm with most indigenous reservations.
Costa Rica is home to eight indigenous groups: Cabécares, Bribris, Ngäbe, Térrabas, Borucas, Huetares, Malekus, and Chorotegas. As stated above, only 2.5% of the total population identifies with these indigenous groups. Although most communities are not easy to reach, they’re not impossible, if you have the time. As an example, for those looking for a day trip to experience indigenous culture, it's possible to visit the Chorotega people in their community of Matambú near Santa Cruz in Guanacaste. The Boruca people, in the Osa Peninsula region, also organize a yearly celebration that commemorates indigenous resistance against the Spaniards, called the Dance of Little Devils. Everyone’s invited to assist and participate in various activities!
Visiting and engaging with indigenous communities in Costa Rica requires sensitivity, respect, and a willingness to learn about their cultures and traditions. Here are some guidelines to ensure a positive and respectful interaction:
- Seek permission and guidance. Before entering indigenous territories or participating in community activities, seek permission from the appropriate authorities or community leaders. Respect their customs and traditions regarding access to sacred sites or participation in ceremonies.
- Respect traditional values and practices. Be mindful of local customs, dress appropriately, and avoid behaviors that may be considered disrespectful. Seek guidance from community members on appropriate conduct and etiquette.
- Seek informed consent. When taking photographs or recording videos, always seek informed consent from individuals, especially if they are engaged in traditional activities or ceremonies. Respect their wishes if they decline or request limitations.
- Contribute to community wellbeing. Consider making a donation to local community projects or initiatives that support their development and well-being. Your contribution can make a significant difference in their lives. If you're on an organized tour, you've already contributed, but individual donations on the ground can always help.
- Learn from indigenous knowledge. Be open to learning about indigenous knowledge systems, traditional practices, and their unique connection to the land they’ve lived in for generations. Embrace the opportunity to gain new perspectives and appreciate their worldview.
- Promote responsible tourism. Encourage other travelers to practice responsible tourism principles when visiting indigenous communities. Share your experiences and insights to promote respectful and sustainable interactions with indigenous cultures.
It's worth pointing out that many of these guidelines are the same as those we laid out when talking about supporting other local communities. There really isn't a great deal of difference. Respect is really the key, and if you show this, you'll be okay.
Sustainable Practices: Minimizing Impact While Maximizing Support
We've spent a lot of time here looking at communities and how to be a respectful, supportive tourist when visiting and interacting with local people. But what about the actual environment itself? After all, people come to Costa Rica for its natural wonders and wildlife. It's the rainforests, beaches, and nature that draw tourists to Costa Rica and the local people that make them fall in love with Costa Rica. That's our experience, anyway.
So how do you travel responsibly and sustainably in Costa Rica? Below, we offer some guidance:
1. Choose sustainable accommodations:
- Opt for eco-lodges and hotels. Look for accommodations that have been certified for sustainable tourism practices. These establishments often have implemented measures to conserve water and energy, reduce waste, and support local communities.
- Consider staying in local homes or guesthouses. This provides direct support to local families and allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Avoid resorts and large hotels. These often have a larger environmental footprint and may not contribute as much to the local economy.
2. Minimize waste and pollution:
- Reduce your use of disposable plastics. Bring reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils to minimize waste.
- Dispose of trash properly. Use designated waste bins and avoid littering. That saying about "leaving only footprints on the beach" should be taken seriously.
- Avoid using single-use toiletries. Bring your own toiletries in reusable containers to reduce packaging waste.
3. Respect wildlife and natural habitats:
- Observe wildlife from a distance. Don't approach or disturb wildlife.
- Avoid feeding wildlife. Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural behavior and make them dependent on humans.
- Stay on designated trails. Avoid trampling off-trail and disturbing vegetation.
4. Support local communities and businesses:
- Patronize local businesses. Eat at local restaurants, shop at local markets, and use local tour operators.
- Learn about local conservation efforts. Support organizations that are working to protect Costa Rica's natural environment.
- Volunteer your time or skills. Volunteer at a local organization or project that is making a positive impact.
By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure your travels to Costa Rica are both enjoyable and environmentally responsible.
Visiting Local Communities in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a small country, but there's plenty to pack in for the community-supporting tourist seeking more than just poolside cocktails. Below, we look at a few areas and communities that are worth checking out.
- The Central Valley. Most tourists skip San José and the Central Valley to get straight to the volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches. This is absolutely understandable for travelers who are short on time. But if you're around for longer, consider taking some time to volunteer in La Carpio, one of San José's most deprived neighborhoods. The Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation is a great place to start if you're interested.
- Arenal Volcano. This is Costa Rica's adventure capital, where tourists come to zip line, raft, hike, and soak in thermal hot springs. But there are also a number of great projects and tours available here, which define the concept of community-based tourism. From local guides showing you around to agri-tourism tours to local farms, you can get real insight into community life here. Ask us about CBT options!
- Monteverde. The Quakers who came to Santa Elena in the early 1950s could well be the original pioneers of community-based tourism in Costa Rica. The whole area is dedicated towards stewardship of the local cloud forests and community development for the good of all.
- Guanacaste. There's more to Guanacaste than sunshine and surf. In the south of the province, on the Nicoya Peninsula, it's possible to visit communities in one of the planet's few "Blue Zones", where people live much longer than the norm. It's also possible to visit the Chorotega indigenous community of Matambú. Elsewhere, there's always a beach cleanup to join. Ask your hotel.
- Central Pacific. Up in the hills above the town of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park is a community called Santa Juana with a unique hotel called Santa Juana Lodge. This place provides, in their own words, "a unique and immersive guest experience in rural Costa Rican life". If you seek some true community-based tourism, you need to spend a few days here.
- Southern Pacific. The communities around the Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula, particularly the village of Drake Bay, know about being stewards of their environment. These are places where communities come together to protect nature, while proudly showing visiting tourists around the most biodiverse piece of land on the planet. The eco-lodges down here wrote the book on sustainable tourism.
- The Caribbean. Less visited than other parts of Costa Rica, the Caribbean side is home to most of Costa Rica's indigenous people. the Bribri, Costa Rica's largest indigenous group, live in the rainforests of Talamanca in the mountains above Puerto Viejo. Also, the Caribbean coast is where most Afro-Costa Ricans live. We recommend checking out the village of Cahuita for a taste of the Afro-Costa Rican community that thrives here.
In the list above, we've tried to highlight some communities in each of the regions around the country that are worth checking out for people interested in culture, volunteering, local support, or giving back in any way. If you want more info on any of these areas, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Tacos4Ticos: Our Very Own Community Project
We'll use this section to talk about Tacos4Ticos, the nonprofit community project that we started back in 2014. We basically provide soccer coaching and English-language teaching to some of the poorest kids in the city, working with them to improve their confidence and make them team players. It's become something of a passion of ours, over the years. We could wax lyrical about Tacos4Ticos and the kids we work with, but sometimes a picture (or, in this case, a video) paints a thousand words. If you're interested in volunteering with us, or donating in any way, contact us for more info. This is definitely a great way to support a local community in Costa Rica.
Creating a Ripple of Positive Impact in Your Travels
We hope we've opened your eyes a little about traveling in a different way to Costa Rica. This is a beautiful country with so many sights to see and adventures to enjoy. But behind it all are the people who live here and the communities who look after the beaches, national parks, and wildlife. Costa Rica would be nothing without the pride in their country and the effort that local people make to ensure Costa Rica stays beautiful. Getting to know the communities you visit in Costa Rica and the people you meet might well become the best and most memorable part of your vacation. If you’re ready to visit, don’t hesitate to ask for our help!
