If lately you’ve felt stuck in your routine, working long hours without spending quality time with friends or family, then you are in serious need of a break from this energy-draining dynamics. A great medicine is visiting green areas for leisure and vitality. In fact, we suggest that you start looking for tickets to Costa Rica’s most eco-friendly destinations.
There is no doubt that Costa Rica’s green reputation is well deserved, being a pioneer in ecotourism in Latin America. Close to 30% of the country’s territory has been designated national park or reserve, and 95% of its energy needs are met using local renewable sources, according to the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE). The government has pledged to become a carbon-neutral country by the year 2021.
Clearly, numerous are the natural environments in Costa Rica, ranging from cloud forests to pristine shores, waiting to be explored–by both groups and solo travelers. If you don’t know how to start planning your break, here are 3 eco-friendly destinations in Costa Rica.
The Cocos Island National Park is a pristine paradise located 535 kilometers from Cabo Blanco in the Pacific Ocean. It was declared World Heritage in 1997 thanks to its protection efforts towards critical marine fauna, which have made it one of the world’s largest biological laboratories.
100 species of birds have been identified, three of which are endemic; 5 of reptiles, two of them unique, and 400 species of insects being 65 native. Also, almost 60 crustacean species, 100 mollusks, and 18 corals have been classified. However, the beauty of Cocos Island does not only lie in its waters. The island’s interior is just as exquisite, with exuberant vegetation, waterfalls, and caves.
This is why it was become one of Costa Rica’s top eco-friendly destinations. It offers explorer visitors all sorts of adventures. Can you imagine seeing such wonders in person? Absolutely indescribable!
If you want to visit this earthly paradise, take into account that there are tourism companies that offer trips starting at 9 nights and 10 days. They include land transport from San José to Puntarenas, accommodation on board the ferryboat, meals, and admission tickets, among other services. Also, bear in mind that the island is under maximum protection, so there is no accommodation available.
Tortuguero is an incredible treasure hidden deep inside the Caribbean region in Costa Rica that you can’t miss. Located 144 kilometers from San José, this protected and seemingly impenetrable paradise can only be accessed through nature–through a stunning aquatic maze. It is internationally known for being one of the major sea turtle nesting sites. Among the turtle species that you will get to see are green, leatherback, and hawksbill turtles. If you intend to witness this natural spectacle, know that it takes place between March and October.
Tortuguero is listed among Costa Rica’s top eco-friendly destinations because of its gorgeous scenery and rich biodiversity. Amidst the tropical rainforest and marine biology, the channels, rivers, beaches, and lakes here make up an incredible natural sight.
You may also like:5 Benefits of Green Areas
Here your adventure will consist of discovering the park’s infinite channels and meanders, a true natural maze surrounded by tropical forest and local fauna.
Take into account that all hotels offer channel tours where you can spot sloths, monkeys, and aquatic fauna such as river turtles, caimans, and crocodiles.
Arenal Volcano is a fascinating natural wonder and a tourist site you shouldn’t skip. It is the highest point in La Fortuna, known worldwide for having a nearly perfect volcanic cone.
Before December 2010, Arenal Volcano was among the top ten most active volcanos in the world. Daily eruptions of rocks and ash made for a majestic view. Currently no lava eruptions occur. However, you can still catch sight of smoke and ash rising from the volcano summit.
Arenal Volcano stands out as an eco-friendly destination in Costa Rica because it offers a variety of ideal scenarios for both relaxation and adrenaline-filled activities. Here you can visit the Arenal Volcano National Park, Lake Arenal, and La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can hike and will also marvel at waterfalls, rivers, and flora and fauna.
If what you’re seeking is to leave your comfort zone and explore green adventure-filled areas, Mistico Park is the right site for you. It is a reserve inhabited by wildlife species where you can challenge your fears in activities such as the Spider Monkey Canyon.
At the same time, you will be amazed by the forest wildlife species in their natural habitat. You will get up close and personal with nature in infinite ways: in trails, hanging bridges, adventure tours–even at the Park’s restaurant.
Here you have a short list of Costa Rica’s eco-friendly destinations to appreciate the country’s natural essence. On top of that, by visiting green areas, you’ll receive the benefits of being surrounded by countless trees, plants, and animals: recovering from exhaustion, and combatting stress and depression.
So, are you ready to enjoy these benefits?
