Eco-Resorts and Lodges in Costa Rica

The “ecotourism” first appeared in the 1970’s, but it’s definition is more recent.

A part of the sustainable development movement, ecotourism was defined in 1992 by the International Ecotourism Society as “a form of responsible travel in natural areas that contributes to the protection of the environment and the well-being of local populations”.

You do have to fly – and sometimes rent a car to – in order to reach to Costa Rica, but once on the ground, choose to travel in ways that are better for the environment and for local populations.

Our beautiful country is “green” in every sense of the word and offers many options for accommodation and activities that respect the environment as well as the flora and fauna.

Costa Rica is home to many Eco-resorts and lodges. They are part of a network called “the organization of tropical studies” (a network of universities and research institutes).

La Selva Eco-lodge and research center

Located in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, in the northwestern corner of the country in the province of Heredia, La Selva is a protected area covered by of 15km2 of tropical rain forest.

It is home to exotic wildlife: frogs, butterflies, jaguars, pumas, monkeys, many birds, and more… and incredible plant life too: more than 1,000 species of trees!

La Selva hosts about 300 scientists and 100 university courses each year. The main goal of the station is to preserve and protect the forest.

During your stay, you’ll to enjoy the 50 kilometers of hiking trails through this unspoiled jungle. Access to the lodge is limited to a certain number of visitors; therefore, we recommend you to book your visit in advance.

Palo Verde Biological station

This station is located in the province of Guanacaste in the national park of the same name.

It is one of the most important sites for research on dry tropical forests, one of the most endangered forest types in the world!

Palo Verde National Park is a refuge for wildlife endemic to Costa Rica as well as a protected wetland.

The station studies the mangroves and the waders that live in the protected area. There are no less than 2,000 species of plants, 125 species of mammals (including 72 bats), 470 species of birds and 87 species of reptiles.

If you choose to stay at Palo Verde, you’ll be housed in rustic accommodations with exclusive access to 60 kilometers of hiking trails and viewpoints to watch the beautiful sunsets over the jungle.

Las Cruces Research station

Located in a mountainous region at an altitude of about 1000 meters, in the south of the province of Puntarenas, Las Cruces is surrounded mainly by pastures, coffee plantations and other agricultural areas.

Las Cruces national park counts more than 270 hectares. The research carried out here focuses on agro-ecology and the study of forest fragmentation, it’s also home to a botanical garden.

With lush flora and fauna, La Cruces boasts a rich biodiversity.

Our team is available for further information on eco-friendly tours or to help you book your next stay at one of these eco-resorts! Costa Rica offers you a multitude of possibilities as an eco-tourist in the making!