CST TOURISM SUSTAINABILITY

Since the beginning, Best of Costa Rica resolved to develop a business that operates hand-in-hand with the environment, guaranteeing its conservation. We established a set of best practices that contribute to achieving our Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) at the ELITE level, the highest level of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) program.

Sustainable development aims to fulfill society’s current needs without compromising the right of future generations to meet theirs. Thus, a country should not excessively exploit its resources (natural, cultural, social) to cover its present population’s needs (food, housing, health, employment) because these are the resources future generations need to survive.

Sustainability in tourism must balance the appropriate use of natural and cultural resources, improve the quality of life of local communities, and achieve economic success, which also contributes to national development. The primary purpose of the CST is to make sustainability tangible, practical, and essential among tourism businesses in Costa Rica. It seeks to improve how natural and social resources are used, promote active participation in local communities, and stimulate healthy entrepreneurial competition.

At Best of Costa Rica, we firmly believe in sustainability and conservation. Our work philosophy ensures we partner with suppliers that identify with our vision of always being committed to the environment and people’s well-being. We offer accommodations all across Costa Rica, all of which have a commitment to sustainability and engage in responsible environmental practices.

Learn more about our certified suppliers in this section, sorted by region and stating their level of certification.