Traveling is one of the greatest past times for people all over the world. It is truly the only way to fully experience other countries and what their cultures have to offer.
But, tourism also generates literally tons of cash for the global economy. In 2016, global tourism contributed $7.61 trillion in revenue.
This number is also the highest it has been in the last ten years, meaning travelers are showing no signs of slowing down.
Ecotourism, in particular, is becoming more prominent. It also has significant advantages over conventional traveling.
Costa Rica ecotourism has proven to be significantly popular. National parks and protected regions are what draw the majority of tourists to the country.
But, what benefits does it provide?
Read on to learn about the seven positive impacts of Costa Rica ecotourism.
What Is Costa Rica Ecotourism?
By definition, ecotourism is any sort of responsible tourist travel to exotic or natural environments. These locations generally need assistance toward their conservation.
In many countries, popular tourist destinations often become “resort towns.” The government sees the potential in these, and the spotlight is often entirely focused on them.
This sometimes leaves little attention toward the areas that actually need it.
Ecotourism gives a monetary value to locations with natural attractions. It also encourages community involvement (often with natives).
Most importantly, ecotourism fosters an environmentally conservative mindset.
1. Preserve The Environment
In order to make way for further human habitat, governments clear out natural areas. Roads and sidewalks replace trees and plains.
The country gains convenience but loses some of its natural history.
Costa Rica’s natural attractions are often the main focus for tourists. This creates more incentive for the local government to leave these areas untouched.
Plus, environmental conservation is vital in order to keep Costa Rica unique.
2. Strengthen Local Communities
It’s not uncommon for indigenous communities to receive little attention. They are often left alone until they are forced out to make room for land development.
Costa Rican communities in remote areas don’t have the economical power that the larger cities do.
Those who travel to these locations help give its citizens the boost they need to improve their lifestyles. In fact, a variety of jobs exist only because tourists come to that location, such as tour guides.
There are also unique examples, too. In communities that have indigenous people, translators are a service that visitors can take advantage of.
3. More Tourism As Time Goes On
Humans are a social species. We love to talk. When we come back from vacation, the first thing we do is tell our friends and share the pictures we took.
If your stories and pictures are particularly good, your friends, family, and coworkers will tell your story to people they know.
Once you return home, it doesn’t take long for others to become interested in the unique experiences of Costa Rica ecotourism.
Word of your travels to a place like the tropical forest in the mountains of Guanacaste (where the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Buena Vista Eco Lodge and Adventure Center are located) will spread. Soon enough, others will be itching to have the same experience.
4. A Lasting Impact On The Tourist
It’s true that traveling abroad is a memorable and eye-opening experience (just look back at the global economy numbers).
But, it’s even more rewarding when done in a way that helps preserve the most precious areas of the country.
Costa Rica ecotourism in particular has a large number of locations to choose from. Long after your trip is over, you will still have the feeling of how important it is to preserve the natural environment.
You may even want to become involved in preservation efforts yourself. It is not uncommon for people to become active in environmental conservation after they return from traveling.
But, you will only understand after seeing for yourself.
5. Cultural Immersion
When traveling to more “formal” tourist destinations, it can be easy to get caught up in the restaurants and hotels. Oftentimes, people come back from other countries with no solid idea of what the culture is like.
Ecotourism focuses on areas that are more secluded and less busy than other locations. These are frequently places that nobody would know about if not for their proximity to a natural attraction.
Sometimes, these areas may have indigenous people living nearby. This offers a rare glimpse into their lifestyles that many people miss out on.
These groups of people often speak their own language that is different from the national language (Spanish) of Costa Rica.
With the aid of a translator, you can communicate with them. Bridging the gap between your world and theirs will help you understand their lifestyle, their history, and their culture.
6. Attention To Human Rights
Smaller communities are often financially weaker than others. The lack of economic power sometimes results in poor conditions going virtually unseen.
Those who live in areas that are out of the spotlight rely on you to tell others about their situation.
While the ecotourism money that directly flows into the community is a nice benefit, it doesn’t help certain types of issues. These include a lack of infrastructure or government aid.
Letting others know that a problem exists will help bring about its resolution.
7. Preserve Endangered Species
As previously mentioned, land is often cleared out so that the government can develop cities and highways. While humans can relocate and survive, native animals sometimes cannot.
Habitat destruction is the leading cause for a species’ extinction. Even just one species going extinct causes a chain reaction that puts others at risk.
In the eyes of the government, ecotourism gives a reason for a natural location to exist. Preserving the surrounding environment also keeps its animals safe.
Costa Rica Ecotourism
Ecotourism in Costa Rica has become a global interest. The country offers tropical tourist destinations that are unlike any other on Earth.
It’s not all just about sightseeing, though. There is plenty to do all over the country on any day of the week. To learn more, check out our list of daily excursions.
Check out our vacation packages: http://bestcostaricadmc.com/vacation-packages/
