Okay, so we’ve been talking about the problems with the mega all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica.

But there is another type of all-inclusive resort that we believe presents the best of all Costa Rica experiences.

I don’t want to go into the technicalities of the distinction between eco-lodges and eco-resorts, but the ones we really like all fit the accepted definition of eco-resort, or eco-tourism resort…so let’s call them that.

Here is what distinguishes an eco-resort from a normal run of the mill hotel or resort…

1. They are generally all-inclusive by necessity…that is, they are located in remote places where there are simply no eating alternatives. So you either eat at the resort, or resort to hunting and gathering in the jungle.
2. They are located in some of the most pristine locals imaginable. In Costa Rica that generally means places like the Osa Peninsula, the southern Caribbean or perhaps the jungle areas of Sarapiqui or Arenal. Being so located, they provide ample opportunities for getting up close and personal with Costa Rica’s amazing biodiversity, usually in the form of guided tours with their on-staff naturalist guides.
3. They display an active commitment to sustainability. This will be evident in their participation in the Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program operated by Costa Rica’s Tourism Ministry (ICT). You can also generally find these resorts employing innovative methods for the utilization of renewable energy, recycling and perma-culture or organic farming to produce their own delicious food.
4. They are generally actively involved in the community and offer ways to integrate with and improve the conditions of local people. Often, guests are invited to participate in these efforts in unique and fulfilling ways.
5. They are actively engaged in the conservation of the natural environment in which they are located.

Now that we have a clear understanding of what actually constitutes an all-inclusive eco-resort, here is our list of 10 great Costa Rica eco-resorts (with web site links for each)…

1. Lapa Rios Ecolodge – Osa Peninsula
2. La Leona Ecolodge – Osa Peninsula
3. Drake Bay Wilderness Resort – Osa Peninsula
4. Casa Corcovado – Osa Peninsula
5. Corcovado Tent Camp – Osa Peninsula
6. Selva Bananito – Costa Rica Caribbean
7. Rancho Margot – Arenal Volcano area
8. Aguila de Osa – Osa Peninsula
9. Rara Avis Ecolodge – Sarapiqui
10. Hacienda Guachipelin – Rincon de la Vieja Volcano area

Each of these eco-resorts provides its own unique eco-experience of Costa Rica. Some offer more luxury than others, but they all have this in common. They offer the hands-down best way to experience what Costa Rica is all about…the flora and the fauna (and, of course, the great people).

Call us for more information on staying at any of these amazing eco-resorts.

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