Costa Rica cycling tour

Planet

Throughout this trip we use bicycles to get between points and take in scenic loops. Travelling by bike has a limited detrimental impact on the environment. When travelling the longer distances through Costa Rica we opt for more environmental friendly 15-25 seat coaches that use less fuel and therefore emit less carbon then the 40-50 seaters. We work with local transport companies. In addition to this, we also use a boat to access Tortuguero National Park.

We support the Caribbean Conservation Corps in Tortuguero National Park which contributes to conservation in the Turtle laying area of Costa Ricas coast, and encouraging people to help clean up the beach where turtles lay their eggs. This all helps Costa Rica work towards earning carbon-neutral status by 2021.

We actively try to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic on our trips. Guests can regularly refill their water bottles from a reusable large water container on the support vehicle thus avoiding the need to buy water in smaller bottles.

As a travel company we are continually looking for ways to improve and are proud to be ‘Responsible in everything we do’. Education is key, and so all staff, Tour Leaders and partnering suppliers are trained in responsible and sustainable tourism. At our Head Office, we continually strive towards a sustainable and planet-friendly working environment, including having solar panels installed and a company commitment to reducing our plastic usage.

People

Enjoying authentic Costa Rican cuisine is an opportunity to try something different, but to also support the local economy. The local Tour Leaders make recommendations of dishes to try at locally-run, family-owned restaurants, which helps local employment as well as adding an extra highlight to your unique tour. Where meals are included we use locally sourced ingredients as far as possible.

Local staff that help support the trip such as drivers, local guides and mechanics are all locals, thus offering guests a direct close interaction as well as injecting money into the local economy. Optional activities such as hot springs, rafting or canopy walks and zip wiring help to create and support local employment.

As a company we have valuable and longstanding partnerships with UK charities Toilet Twinning and Send a Cow, plus many smaller initiatives and projects around the world. We’re members of the UK travel industry body AITO because we believe it’s important to share our knowledge and experience, as well as learn from other operators.