In association with: Costa Rica Tourism Board
An exciting range of sustainable adventure activities awaits clients of all ages and abilities in Costa Rica
Costa Rica prides itself on being one of the few countries in the world that’s regenerating its rainforests – as highlighted by David Attenborough. It’s just one part of the country’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and sustainable travel, which agents can learn all about by taking an online course at the Pura Vida University.
Pura Vida means pure or simple life. And the tourist board’s Pura Vida Pledge promises to educate the travel trade and visitors on the real meaning of responsible tourism and the actions everyone can take to make a true difference to local communities.
In a country filled with soaring volcanoes and lush rainforests, those actions include a variety of adventure experiences, many located in the country’s 26 protected national parks. The 30,000 acres of rainforest, rugged mountains and tumbling waterfalls that make up the Arenal Volcano National Park offer exhilarating activities for all ages and abilities, from volcano hikes, mountain-biking, ziplining and horseback riding to a range of canyoning options, including white-water rafting and abseiling. Lava-heated hot springs act as a welcome balm to tired limbs.
Hikes and hot springs without the crowds are a feature of the Turrialba Volcano National Park near San Jose, where clients can kayak and raft along the valley’s Rio Reventazón and Rio Pejibaye. On the Pacuare River, white-water thrillseekers can take on category 3 and 4 rapids on a river that’s rated one of the top five rivers in the world for its stunning scenery and challenging rapids.
There is no shortage of adventure across Costa Rica. Clients can fly above the forest canopy on ziplines at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, kayak through mangroves in Manuel Antonio National Park or Tortuguero (where they’re sure to see monkeys, crocodiles and iguanas and even more of the country’s amazing wildlife), hike in San Gerardo de Dota or the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
They can also swim in the river of the Sarapiquí Valley, scuba dive off the Cocos Island and surf the breakers at Playa Naranjo in the Santa Rosa National Park. Help your clients put their perfect itinerary together by learning about Pura Vida, so they can enjoy their adventures in a sustainable way.
Pura Vida principles
- The Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) is awarded to companies based on their efforts to support the environment. More than 400 hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and tourism attractions have the certificate and UK operators are encouraged to work with these companies.
- As part of its commitment to an innovative vision of the future, the tourist board has partnered with the National Forestry Financing Fund to tackle carbon emissions. An online tool found on the Pura Vida University calculates the emissions of flights.
- Visitors keen to support Costa Rica’s local communities and their economies can get involved in a range of volunteering opportunities, from conservation programmes to teaching English.
- Fundamental to the Pura Vida message is respect for the environment and a commitment to sustainable travel. In promoting sustainability and eco-tourism, more businesses will be inspired to follow suit.
Increase bookings with the help of the Pura Vida online course
Agents can learn all about Costa Rica and its Pura Vida pledge through the online training. Head to puravidauniversity.co.uk where you’ll find tools to help you create more sustainable itineraries, resources to help you sell Costa Rica and special offers from local partners.
PICTURES: Joan Vendrell