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Environment
Costa Rica is renowned for its long standing achievements in conservation and environmental issues and is one of Latin Americas best promoters of responsible tourism. Combining luxury accommodation with eco-tourism is the ethos of this tour and the accommodation chosen reflects the advanced practices in sustainable tourism, recycling and local initiatives in this region.
Tortuga Lodge, set within the Tortuguero National Park prides itself on conservation. The lodge supports the local sea turtle project which studies and tags the turtles that come to nest on Tortuguero Beach. Tortuga Lodge has implemented an energy conservation program that saves an average of 50% of the overall electrical energy consumption. The Lodge has a unique swimming pool that mirrors the river beside it and which uses a small amount of salt instead of polluting chlorine.
In Monteverde, another National Park, the Monteverde Lodge and Gardens shows its continuing commitment to minimum impact and rational use of resources. Monteverde Lodge was the pioneer hotel in the area in garbage separation for recycling. This is an attitude that has extended to the inhabitants of Monteverde to the point that the local Conservation League and the Cloud Forest Reserve are now in charge of recycling for most of the community.
Another expression of their commitment is the installation, with the help of the U.S. Department of Energy and a local energy efficiency expert, of a solar energy system that saves an average of 50% on our overall electrical energy consumption. In addition to the solar panels, high efficiency lighting and water-saving fixtures have been installed to reduce the consumption of natural resources.
Morgan’s Rock Eco-Lodge near the town of San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua offers the height of luxury. Pioneering a new trend in eco-tourism, the lodge combines tree farming and reforestation as well as organic and traditional agriculture, 60% of the food served at the lodge is grown on the premises, benefitting from a sophisticated irrigation system based on a wastewater treatment plant that eventually produces clean water.
Community
Morgan’s Rock is also involved in projects in the local area, most notably with local schools. They have provided backpacks filled with school supplies, uniforms, story books and other useful materials. They are also now working in conjunction with the Ministry of Education to improve learning in the community.
Later on the tour we visit the Indian market town of Masaya. Here local artisans create fine ceramics, wood and leather souvenirs as well the best hammocks in Central America. All of which can be purchased providing much need money to the poor local areas.
On this Costa Rica & Nicaragua tour we work with small privately owned ground agents who live in the area, have established RT policies in place, and employ local guides and staff. We eat in local restaurants serving locally grown produce – our style of travel ensures that as many local people as possible benefit by our being there. This tour runs with a maximum of 20 people which helps to minimise the impact on delicate environments and communities.
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