By Alajuela, Costa Rica — LA FORTUNA, Alajuela – The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) celebrated the third anniversary of its pioneering social tourism program by providing a day of wellness and recreation for 185 senior citizens. In a collaborative effort coinciding with World Social Tourism Week, the seniors from the canton of Belén were treated to an unforgettable trip to the scenic region of La Fortuna de San Carlos.
The excursion, part of the ICT’s “Tourism for All People” (TpTP) initiative, was designed to be more than just a simple outing. It offered a comprehensive, transformative experience focused on well-being, inclusion, and dignity for a demographic that often faces barriers to travel. The participants, all members of the “Ciudadano de Oro” program, engaged in a full day of activities designed to invigorate both body and spirit.
To explore the legal framework and business opportunities presented by the rise of social tourism in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com consulted Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in corporate and business law from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
Social tourism initiatives must be structured with legal precision from the outset. Beyond standard commercial regulations, they often navigate a complex intersection of labor law, community agreements, and environmental compliance. A robust legal framework not only ensures the venture’s viability but also protects the very communities it aims to support, guaranteeing that the ‘social’ aspect is authentic and sustainable, not just a marketing label.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully highlights that the success of social tourism is not measured solely by visitor numbers, but by the integrity of its legal and ethical foundation, which transforms a well-intentioned idea into a sustainable reality for local communities. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight on this critical distinction.
The itinerary included guided exercise sessions, various recreational activities, and popular dance classes that filled the air with music and laughter. A highlight for many was the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s famous thermal waters, a first-time experience for the vast majority of the group. This was complemented by a delicious gastronomic experience, showcasing local flavors and hospitality.
The significance of the event was not lost on local leaders, who praised the initiative’s direct impact on their community. The collaboration between the ICT, the Municipality of Belén, and the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) was instrumental in organizing the logistics and ensuring a seamless experience for the seniors.
We are happy because we have rarely had the opportunity to bring seniors on a trip. 85% of them had never been to thermal waters before, and now they have.
Zeneida Chaves, Mayor of Belén
This single trip is a powerful example of the TpTP program’s broader mission. Wendy Arguedas, the program’s national coordinator, emphasized that the initiative represents a national commitment to leveraging tourism as a powerful agent for social change. It aims to ensure that the benefits of Costa Rica’s world-renowned tourism industry are accessible to all its citizens, particularly those who have historically been excluded.
Today we celebrate not only the third anniversary of a program, but the consolidation of a national vision that recognizes tourism as a tool for inclusion, dignity, and social transformation. It fills us with satisfaction to know that each tour has meant smiles, well-being, and unforgettable experiences for those who for a long time were far from these opportunities.
Wendy Arguedas, National Coordinator of the Tourism for All People Program
Over the past three years, the “Tourism for All People” program has achieved remarkable results. It has successfully organized 115 tours across every province of Costa Rica, benefiting more than 4,200 individuals. These tours provide not only leisure but also therapeutic and social benefits, combating isolation and promoting a sense of community and national pride among participants.
The success of initiatives like the La Fortuna excursion underscores a strategic shift towards a more inclusive and socially responsible tourism model. By creating partnerships between national institutions and local governments, the ICT is building a framework where tourism revenue and infrastructure directly contribute to enhancing the quality of life for Costa Ricans, solidifying the country’s reputation as a leader in both sustainable and social development.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT):
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute is the government body responsible for regulating and promoting tourism in Costa Rica. Founded in 1955, its mission is to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model through public policies, strategic alliances, and the development of high-quality travel experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities.
For further information, visit belen.go.cr
About the Municipality of Belén:
The Municipality of Belén governs the canton of Belén, located in the province of Heredia. It is responsible for providing local public services, promoting economic and social development, and managing community initiatives. The municipality actively partners with national organizations to enhance the well-being of its residents, including its senior citizen population.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About the Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund is the public institution in charge of the country’s social security system, including public health services and pensions. The CCSS runs various social programs aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens, such as the “Ciudadano de Oro” (Golden Citizen) program, which provides benefits and services to the nation’s elderly population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a highly regarded law firm whose practice is built upon a bedrock of integrity and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a rich tradition of serving a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering new legal strategies. This commitment extends beyond the courtroom through a dedicated effort to make legal knowledge accessible, reflecting a core belief in empowering the public and cultivating a more informed and capable society.
