When it comes to Costa Rica, one of its greatest charms lies in its biodiversity. Whether it is about the country’s beautiful landscapes, its mountains, its oceans, or its exuberant wildlife.
Costa Rica is a great travel destination not only for those looking for a relaxing vacation but also for anyone who loves nature and who is concerned about wildlife and habitat conservation. That is why it is cataloged as one of the best destinations for ecotourism. But what exactly is ecotourism?
According to the International Ecotourism Society (TIES), ecotourism refers to the type of traveling that is mindful of conserving the environment and procuring the well-being of the local people. It takes place in natural areas, This is why Costa Rica, where more than a quarter of the territory is protected in the form of reservoirs or National Parks, is becoming a renowned spot for ecotourism. If you’re interested in traveling and in environmentally friendly activities, here are five ecotourism options you should definitely try while in Costa Rica.
1. Birdwatching in Carara
If you’re an animal lover and you're interested in birdwatching, Costa Rica is the perfect place for you. The Asociación Ornitológica de Costa Rica (Costa Rican Ornithological Association) states that the country possesses approximately 922 bird species, of which 9 are endemic to the Latin American country, including at least two mockingbird species. Not only does Costa Rica possess an abundance of bird species to watch, but you can also observe these beautiful birds no matter where you are in the country. One place that is especially recommended for birdwatching purposes, though, is Carara National Park. Carara, located between San Jose and Puntarenas, stands out in birdwatching because of its diverse wildlife, particularly the Lapa Roja, or Red Macaw species, which charms anyone who looks at it.
2. Looking At The Frogs in Corcovado
Another great opportunity to practice ecotourism in Costa Rica is frog-watching. Costa Rica is the home to approximately 193 species of frogs and toads, which thrive in the country thanks to its weather, mostly humid and warm. Some of the most renowned frog species in Costa Rica include the red-eyed frog, the blue-jeans frog, and the poison dart frog. These can be spotted in different National Parks and Wildlife Protection Areas all around the country, such as Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde. However, one of the best places to spot animal species in Costa Rica is the Corcovado National Park in the Osa Peninsula, which possesses 2.5% of the world's biodiversity. If you wish to encounter these frogs in their natural environment, Corcovado is the perfect spot for you.
3. Witnessing Turtle Nesting at the Pacuare Reserve
Another great activity for animal lovers and wildlife conservation enthusiasts in Costa Rica is visiting the Pacuare Reserve. The Reserve, surrounded by dense rainforest, is located on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica, between Tortuguero and Limon. This is also an awesome wildlife spotting area, home to numerous species of birds and approximately 32 species of mammals. However, one of the most magical ecotourism experiences at the Pacuare is the nestling and hatching of the leatherback turtle. Pacuare Beach is one of the most important nesting areas for this specific species of turtle. Visitors are welcome at the Pacuare Reserve from March to July to witness the nesting process, and from June to September when the baby turtles hatch. It is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience.
Playa Junquillal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where Out of Office Villa is located, also has a locally based turtle preservation program.
4. Potholing in Barra Honda
A different variety of ecotourism options in Costa Rica is more expedition-based. If what you’re looking for is an adventure, then you should check out Barra Honda National Park, located in the Guanacaste Province. In this park you can find intricate underground caverns that are unlike any other caves in the country due to their complexity. Scientists and speleologists have explored around 50% of these calcareous (made of calcium carbonate) cave formations. However, not all of the Barra Honda caverns explored so far are open to the public. Bu the Terciopelo Cavern is known for being an amazing spot for those seeking adventure.
5. Snorkeling in Isla Tortuga
Another adventure-related ecotourism opportunity to take advantage of in Costa Rica is snorkeling and getting in contact with another one of the country’s greatest beauties - its seas. Costa Rica’s marine territory extends approximately 224 605 square miles (581 726 km2). This is equivalent to about 11 times the country’s terrestrial area. One of the best places to fully enjoy and be immersed in one of the country’s marine habitats is snorkeling in Isla Tortuga. This paradise-like, uninhabited island is part of the Puntarenas Province and is located south of Nicoya, in Guanacaste. The island is a popular snorkeling location due to the beautiful tropical fish that can be spotted in the area as well as some manta rays, dolphins, and whitetip reef sharks. It is an unforgettable experience.
Costa Rica homes an incredible amount of wildlife and the country is constantly doubling efforts to secure the protection of its very valued species. Because of this, it has become a renowned vacation destination for ecotourism. Don’t think about it twice and make sure you give yourself the wonderful experience of traveling and getting to know Costa Rica while also supporting wildlife conservation efforts. And if you are looking for a place to stay during your visit, Out of Office Villa is just what you're looking for. Book a stay with us now.