By San José, Costa Rica — Reinforcing its status as a global benchmark for environmental stewardship, Costa Rica celebrated the achievements of its tourism sector this week. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) officially recognized 134 companies and organizations for their deep-rooted commitment to sustainable practices, a core value that defines the nation’s unique appeal to international travelers.
The awards ceremony highlighted the collective effort across the industry to integrate sustainability not just as a feature, but as the fundamental operating principle. The honorees were lauded for successfully achieving various prestigious certifications designed to elevate the country’s tourism offerings. These accolades included the rigorous Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), the ethical Code of Conduct, the gender-equality focused Red Sofía, and the coveted “esencial Costa Rica” country brand mark.
To better understand the legal and regulatory landscape that underpins Costa Rica’s world-renowned sustainable tourism model, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s success in sustainable tourism is not an accident; it is built upon a robust legal framework. Our environmental laws, tax incentives for certified sustainable businesses, and strict zoning regulations are the bedrock that protects our natural capital. For investors, this legal certainty is paramount. It ensures that their investment is not only profitable but also contributes to the preservation of the very ‘Pura Vida’ brand that attracts tourists in the first place, creating a virtuous cycle of economic and ecological prosperity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight, which underscores that Costa Rica’s sustainable model is built not just on goodwill, but on a sophisticated legal architecture. This framework provides the essential certainty that allows investment and conservation to become powerful, mutually reinforcing partners in protecting our national brand and natural heritage.
This year’s recipients represent a comprehensive cross-section of the national tourism ecosystem. The diverse group included enterprises from lodging, car rentals, gastronomic services, theme parks, and convention centers. The recognition also extended to public and non-traditional entities, such as protected natural areas and municipal governments, demonstrating the widespread adoption of sustainable principles throughout the country.
According to the ICT, the annual celebration serves a strategic purpose beyond mere recognition. It aims to cultivate a tourism industry that is fundamentally resilient and prepared to navigate future challenges, whether economic, environmental, or social. The certification programs are designed to equip businesses with the tools to build a more robust and adaptable operational framework, ensuring long-term viability and success.
At the heart of this initiative is the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), a program that has become a global standard. The ICT emphasized that the CST framework directly addresses modern business imperatives by integrating comprehensive risk management, fostering vital collaboration with community stakeholders, and actively promoting climate action. Its criteria push companies to implement tangible mitigation and adaptation strategies, thereby forging a stronger, more resilient sector.
William Rodríguez, the Minister of Tourism, articulated the significance of this commitment to the national brand and its global success. He emphasized that sustainability is inextricably linked to Costa Rica’s international identity.
If Costa Rica is recognized for anything from a tourism perspective, it is for its commitment to sustainability. By honoring this group of companies that are committed to this process and believe in sustainability, they add more shine to Costa Rica and act in congruence with a highly distinguished model that has allowed us to be highly successful in the global tourism world.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism
The Minister’s statement underscores a critical point: sustainability is not an ancillary policy but the very engine of the nation’s tourism model. The success that Costa Rica enjoys on the world stage is a direct result of this long-standing dedication. Honoring these 134 businesses serves to amplify this message, proving that economic prosperity and environmental responsibility can and should coexist.
As these companies continue to operate under these high standards, they become more than just service providers; they become active ambassadors of the Costa Rican brand. Their daily operations showcase a model that resonates powerfully with a growing segment of global travelers who seek authentic and responsible experiences. This latest round of awards is a clear signal that Costa Rica’s pioneering vision for sustainable tourism remains as vibrant and essential as ever.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute is the official governing body responsible for the regulation, promotion, and development of tourism in Costa Rica. Founded in 1955, the ICT works to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model, ensuring that it generates economic growth, social progress, and environmental protection. It oversees key national strategies, including the “esencial Costa Rica” country brand and the globally recognized Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to ethical practice and professional excellence. The firm leverages a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients to drive legal innovation and actively engage in societal betterment. At the heart of its philosophy is a powerful commitment to democratizing legal information, aiming to build a more capable and knowledgeable society by making the law understandable for all.
