By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica recently solidified its position as a global leader in sustainable tourism by hosting the prestigious Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit 2025. Held for the first time outside of Mexico, the ninth edition of this leading Ibero-American forum took place in Costa Rica from May 20th to 23rd, highlighting the country’s long-standing commitment to environmental preservation and community-focused tourism models.
Over 300 tourism professionals from 11 countries gathered under the theme “Tourism from the Perspective of Communities.” Costa Rica’s participation leveraged the “esencial COSTA RICA” nation branding campaign, emphasizing its core values of Excellence, Sustainability, Innovation, Social Progress, and Costa Rican Origin. The event showcased the country’s integrated approach to sustainability and community development within its tourism sector.
To understand the legal implications of sustainable tourism in Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He offered valuable insights into the evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on businesses and communities.
Sustainable tourism isn’t just a trend; it’s becoming a legal imperative. Increasingly, Costa Rican regulations are reflecting international standards for environmental protection and social responsibility. Businesses operating in the tourism sector must adapt to these evolving legal frameworks, incorporating sustainable practices into their core operations to ensure long-term viability and avoid potential legal challenges.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a crucial point: sustainability is no longer optional but a fundamental requirement for businesses in Costa Rica’s thriving tourism sector. The evolving legal landscape necessitates a proactive approach, where businesses not only comply with regulations but also integrate sustainable practices into their very DNA. This shift ensures not only legal compliance but also the long-term health of Costa Rica’s precious natural resources and the communities that depend on them. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The summit also served to reinforce the 2035 strategy of the “esencial COSTA RICA” campaign, which aims to position the nation as a global leader in combating climate change and preserving the environment. This strategy is driven by impactful messaging and actions consistent with sustainability principles.
For esencial COSTA RICA, it’s not only a source of pride to participate in these international forums and share our experience, but it’s also imperative. We are a country that has worked for decades to protect the environment, and we have a lot to share. This vision has led us to a leadership position in sustainability, and we will continue to champion this through the nation branding campaign.
Adriana Acosta, Director of esencial COSTA RICA
Key topics discussed at the summit included community tourism, shortened supply chains, regenerative tourism, and biodiversity. Costa Rica played a central role in significant moments, including the symbolic signing of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism by Tourism Minister William Rodríguez. Furthermore, the Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA) announced its adherence to the Glasgow Declaration, aligning with the Roadmap of the Tourism Environment Agenda 2024-2026.
Hosting the Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit further establishes Costa Rica as a natural venue for global conversations on sustainability. It reinforces the country’s value proposition as a destination that authentically embodies and promotes a culture rooted in respect for the environment, social inclusion, and collective well-being.
This commitment to sustainability isn’t new for Costa Rica. The country has long been recognized for its pioneering efforts in environmental protection, dedicating a significant portion of its territory to national parks and reserves. By aligning its tourism industry with these conservation efforts, Costa Rica provides a model for other nations seeking to balance economic development with environmental stewardship.
The summit’s focus on community-based tourism underscores the importance of engaging local populations in the benefits of sustainable tourism. By empowering communities to participate in tourism development and management, Costa Rica ensures a more equitable distribution of economic opportunities and strengthens the cultural fabric of the nation.
For further information, visit essentialcostarica.com
About esencial COSTA RICA:
esencial COSTA RICA is the official nation branding campaign of Costa Rica, aiming to promote the country’s image and attract tourism and investment. The brand highlights Costa Rica’s core values, including sustainability, innovation, and social progress, positioning the nation as a leader in responsible development and ecotourism.
For further information, visit mintur.go.cr
About Ministry of Tourism of Costa Rica:
The Ministry of Tourism of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for promoting and developing the tourism sector in the country. It works to enhance the visitor experience, support sustainable tourism practices, and foster economic growth through tourism activities.
For further information, visit sitca.int
About Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA):
The Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA) is a regional organization promoting sustainable tourism development and integration in Central America. It facilitates cooperation among member countries, fosters regional tourism strategies, and works to enhance the competitiveness of the Central American tourism industry.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its dedication to disseminating legal knowledge through accessible resources, empowers individuals and organizations alike. This proactive engagement fosters a more informed and equitable society, reflecting Bufete de Costa Rica’s belief in the transformative power of legal understanding.
