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Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in Cartago

30 HOTELS IN CARTAGORanking can be influenced by the commissions we receive.
Pacuare Lodge by Böëna main photo
Pacuare Lodge by Böëna
Lodge in Bajo TigreTurrialbaCR flag
9.2
Excellent
From $1,234
$
+2
Sustainability Journey
Pacuare Lodge is a luxury eco-hotel located on the banks of the Pacuare River. It was built with minimal impact on the environment, using lumber from a reforestation project and no trees were cut for construction. The lodge sources 100% of its electricity from clean energy, utilizing three hydroelectric turbines and 204 solar panels. They use electric golf carts charged with in-house clean energy and have solar-heated water in the suites. The lodge uses organic and chemical-free products, including biodegradable soaps and shampoos, and sources local organic ingredients for their restaurant. They have a strong commitment to conservation, having acquired 840 acres of primary forests for preservation and engaging in wildlife conservation projects. The lodge also supports the local community by hiring 90% of its staff from the area and contributing to community development initiatives.
Questionnaire
Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?
Solar radiation
Hydro
What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?
Building materials from sustainable resources
Written environmental policy statement in place
The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning
The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating
Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)
Use of non-toxic cleaning products
Environmental manager appointed
Employees are trained to follow environmental policies
Electric car charging station(s) available
Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush
Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request
Waste is separated into at least 3 categories
Recycling bins in guest rooms
No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery
Organic waste is composted
Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced
A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant
Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?CONSERVATION

– The Pacuare Lodge was built with minimal impact on the surrounding forest and river. No trees were cut to accommodate the suites and main lodge; our buildings use lumber from a reforestation project run by small farmers. The lodge story involves effort and a unique vision from the owners. Since 1995, we have gone through constant evolution, carrying since the beginning the Böëna Wilderness Pillars.

– Suites, spa, and main buildings design include natural ventilation and illumination.

– Pacuare Lodge was the first adventure travel company to acquire parcels of primary forest in this area solely for the purpose of conservation. Over the years, we’ve purchased 340 hectares (840 acres) of primary rainforest along the Pacuare River both to protect the local ecosystem and to offset the atmospheric carbon created by our vehicles. Some of that forest was in danger of being cleared before we purchased it but is now strictly protected in order to conserve the flora and fauna that lives there. Because our goal is preservation of this untouched virgin rainforest, no visitors are allowed into this area.

Energy:

– Our electricity comes from clean energy generated by 2 hydroelectrical turbines and 120 solar panels. The energy produced through these high-tech systems if stored in batteries for its responsible use. We have implemented an educational process to include guests’ participation in water and electricity efficient use, as well as staff and operative actions.

– We also implemented a management plan for water and electricity usage, involving guests and staff. This includes a constant invest in technology, data analysis, and reaching for usage reduction.

– We use electric cars (golf carts) our property to transfer our guests and supplies. These are charged at the lodge with clean energy produced in-house.

Water:

– Water for suites is solar heated with a high-tech solar panel system installed in each suite or villa.

– All the lodge’s wastewater flows into state-of-the-art septic systems to avoid pollution of the nearby river.

– The lodge’s bathrooms are equipped with biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel. All laundry is made with biodegradable soap, and washers and dryers devices allow an efficient use of the electricity produced in-property.

Wastes:

– Pacuare Lodge operates a waste management program that includes all operative departments and guests, including separating inorganic wastes and organic material. Most organic waste is processed in a compost process, and solid wastes are responsibly managed in the local recycling center.

– Single use plastic bottles are not allowed in Pacuare Lodge and we ask our guests to use reusable instead.

– Tuis Farm: A piece of land was acquired 45 minutes away from the Lodge, in which an organic farm was developed, allowing to use organic produce as much as possible in all of our meal options. This was worked as both a source of organic food for the Lodge as well as a vehicle to teach organic farming practices to local community members, including composting to improve our production and quality of produce we provide to our guests and staff. We also support local community commerce with Pacuare Lodge daily operative requirements.

Wildlife:

Another important component of our commitment to environmental protection and sustainable tourism is supporting a project to study felines and other species in the Pacuare Protected Zone. Since 2009, Pacuare Lodge has supported the Jaguar Program; we signed an agreement with National University and in addition to providing the researchers with food and lodging, we support cameras and equipment needed for their expeditions including tent camps, batteries for the cameras, and support with local guides.

This collaboration is a result of his growing concern about conservation and the environment, and the need to contribute to the preservation of its ecosystems.

The largest feline in the Americas, the jaguar was once common from the southwest United States to northern Argentina, but it has been eliminated from more than half of its original range during the past century. Those spotted cats continue to be threatened by hunters and ranchers in Costa Rica, where they are increasingly restricted to isolated protected areas that are too small to sustain their species. The jaguar project complements our comprehensive sustainable tourism policy, which includes efforts to decrease the lodge’s environmental footprint, benefit communities near the Pacuare River, and contribute to conservation. Those efforts range from recycling programs at all the company’s facilities to planting trees on former pastureland near the river and using wood from reforestation projects in construction of the Pacuare Lodge.

In recent years, the availability of affordable camera traps with movement sensors has revolutionized wildlife research. National University scientist placed camera traps along game trails in the Pacuare Lodge’s 340-hectare (840-acre) private rainforest reserve, the adjacent Nairí Awari Indigenous Reserve and remote Barbilla National Park. Over the years, she has captured approximately 5,000 photos and videos of mammals there with over 144 cameras donated by July 22. Through the equipment and research over the years, the program has documented that the rainforest surrounding the Pacuare Lodge is home to at least 24 species of large mammal, including five of the six felines native to Costa Rica and other rare species such as Baird’s tapir, the red brocket deer and naked-tailed armadillo. Carolina has used the photos and videos to identify five individual jaguars, since the rosettes – patterns of spots – of any given jaguar are as unique as a fingerprint. These include a rare black jaguar (a.k.a. black panther) a mutation that had only been documented in one other region of Costa Rica.

COMMUNITY

Our staff:

– A 100% of the Pacuare Lodge staff belongs to the closer communities like Nairi Awari Indigenous Reserve, Bajos del Tigre, Linda Vista, Santa Marta and other nearby communities between Turrialba Town and Siquirres. Pacuare Lodge provides direct or indirect employment to these communities that before lacked any source of formal employment. Their main income used to come from subsistence coriander cultivation and cattle raising.

– Through our Boena Wilderness sister lodges we have a cross training program to improve and share knowledge from property to property, as we believe in empowering our staff and providing growth opportunities.

Community Outreach:

Sustainable tourism should improve the lives of local people, and we’ve made donations and initiated projects in the communities nearest to the Pacuare Lodge.

– Pacuare Lodge believes responsible tourism should benefit and respect local communities and it consistently works toward this goal. The Lodge is in a remote area which as a result has been poorly maintained over time by local governments mainly due to its inaccessibility by conventional means. Its Community Support Program works to enhance the living standards of people along the Pacuare River and near the lodge by improving the infrastructure in this area.

– Pacuare Lodge supports local schools and provides funds to support environmental education, sports and other social programs in the area. It has restored the cable car service which local residents use to cross the river, and also through the years has helped keep the road accessible to use.

Children education:

– In addition to teaching our guests about the ecology of the surrounding rainforest, the Pacuare Lodge has launched an environmental education program for schools in nearby communities. Our goal is to raise awareness among local elementary school students of the importance of protecting their environment, and to promote the adoption of good practices that will help them have a more balanced relationship with nature, to live in an ever-healthier environment, and preserve natural resources for future generations. Teams of river guides and Pacuare Lodge staff were trained to give presentations at local schools. The presentations emphasize sustainability, in a practical, simple way, and urge the kids to adopt good habits, emphasizing 4C’s: CULTURE, CONSERVATION, COMMUNITY, and COMMERCE. Among the principal issues we want the children to understand are:

• The importance of water in their environment and the need to conserve water and protect water sources.

• The importance of energy for human beings and the tools and techniques for conserving it.

• Basic concepts about the local flora and fauna and the principals of their protection.

• The basic principles of managing waste in our communities.

• Biodiversity conservation.

Also in education, the lodge serves as classroom for training and basic courses of guiding, English lessons, and food handling, among other subjects, for the Cabecar Indigenous population from nearby reserves.

– We are founders of the Subcorredor Biológico Barbilla-Destierro, better known as “Paso del Jaguar”. This group studies and supports different projects and initiatives for conservation, sustainable production, and ecotourism, among other actions.

Turrialba Foundation:

– We are founders of Turrialba Foundation, a non-profit organization founded and based in sustainable tourism experiences through Boena Wilderness Lodges and the projects and operations, building options to improve quality living and a sustainable development with our projects and actions.

Fundación Turrialba first name was Turrialba Sostenible and was embraced by the local commerce and services chamber of Turrialba Town. Since the beginning the project was presented to the local government council, and as a result was declared of local interest and then registered as foundation.

COMMERCE

– We also support local community commerce with Pacuare Lodge daily operative requirements. Eggs, chicken, cheese, some of the protein required for meals, and other fresh produce is locally sourced.

– We support the Cabecar Indigenous Nairi Awari Reserve with our visits in the Cabecar Indigenous Hike.

– In Pacuare Lodge our guests support the local community through the Rural experience were our guest through their visit to the Bajo del Tigre Community, where many of our staff come from. This is a farming area, that produce spices, roots, and tubers. We promote visiting a local family’s home, trying traditional snacks learning about daily life in a rural Costarican small town, while supporting them through our visit.

– We offer locally produced products for sale at the lodge, for example chocolate and other artisan products like the laundry bags that are hand-made by Tirrases community women leaders.

CULTURE

– Cabecar Indigenous Culture program: At Pacuare Lodge, culture development is carried with the Nairi Awari Indigenous group. We support a group of Cabecar with an area and resources to promote their art, their techniques, using ancestral materials and supplies, helping carry their legacy from generation to generation. We also support them with job opportunities at the lodge, and through our Cabecar Hike Experience, our guests support their economy through learning and sharing, discovering their secrets through the Cabecar trails.

– Cabecar Ranch: sharing and promoting culture also means introducing the Cabecar Indigenous culture and customs to our guests. We use the Cabecar Ranch, built by members of a clan that lives in the nearby Nairi Awari Indigenous Reserve, located a short hike from the lodge, where the son of a local shaman provides visitors with an introduction to his people’s culture and customs.

– We offer the farm-to-table cuisine with traditional Costa Rican dishes included in our regular menu. Our guests can enjoy a delicious Pozol with corn kernels or the Pejibaye soup, the Casado, Caribbean style Ricen´beans, cas sorbet, or the Arroz con Leche.

– Through the Experiences we offer, we promote nature, cultural and culinary learning for our guests, promoting the local culture among our visitors. During our guests stays, Pacuare Lodge includes natural hikes like birdwatching and the Sustainability Tour, were we share some of our actions towards sustainability and we introduce our vision and pillars to our visitors.

We are Fellow Members of The Long Run, a membership organization of nature-based tourism businesses committed to driving holistic sustainability. Each member aspires to maintain a healthy and productive planet for posterity. Collectively, conserving over 23-million acres of biodiversity and improving the lives of 750,000 people. Through The Long Run, we support, connect, and inspire nature-based businesses to excel in the highest sustainable standards via the tried and tested 4C framework: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce (4Cs).

Boena’s Collection of Wilderness Lodges forms part of the National Chamber of Sustainable Tourism (CANAECO). A non-profit organization, CANAECO provides stimulus to develop responsible and sustainable practices across the tourism industry.

Certifications:

Pacuare River has received the highest rating from the Costa Rican government’s Ecological Blue Flag Program for River Watersheds. Rafting and kayaking experts have long considered the Pacuare to be one of the world’s top whitewater rivers, primarily due to the quality of its environment and rainforest scenery. This Blue Flag rating confirms that it is an exemplary natural wonder, and includes working with local communities to involved them in the river’s protection. The company has always taken great care to ensure that the Pacuare Lodge has no negative impact on the river and together with local farmers and guests, is planting trees in the Pacuare watershed. This designation by the Ecological Blue Flag Program for River Watersheds – a pioneer project on a global level – is yet another recognition that the Pacuare is one of Costa Rica’s natural jewels.

In 2018 we had our second evaluation for the Sustainable Tourism Certificate (CST) from the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT), receiving the highest level of sustainability as ELITE. The CST is a technical tool to strengthen sustainable tourism industry in Costa Rica. It recognizes the organizations management that work actively to mitigate the impact of the operations. This certification empowers social, cultural, economic, and environmental development in Costa Rica touristic areas.

Glamping Campo Alegre main photo
Glamping Campo Alegre
Campground in CartagoCartagoCR flag
9.5
Excellent
$
Sustainability Journey
Glamping Campo Alegre is an eco-friendly and sustainable glamping site set amidst farmlands. The property operates as a sustainable eco-farm, providing fresh, organic meals directly from their garden. They offer eco-friendly bungalows with ecological bathrooms and sustainable water practices. Guests can connect with nature and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Hotel Casa Turire main photo
Hotel Casa Turire
Hotel in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
8.5
Very Good
From $169
$
+4
Sustainability Journey
Hotel Casa Turire is a colonial-style hotel surrounded by a tropical garden and a sustainable working farm. The farm provides ingredients for the hotel's restaurant, utilizing compost produced from organic waste. The hotel has implemented a Savings Plan for Energy and Water and works with nature-friendly suppliers. They have a reforestation area and treat residual waters to prevent pollution.
Finca Queveri main photo
Finca Queveri
Bed & Breakfast in OrosiParaisoCR flag
9.5
Excellent
From $135
$
Sustainability Journey
Finca Queveri is an agricultural farm that aims to be friendly with the environment in various aspects of production, including alimentation, facilities, and waste management. They work with free-range cows and other animals in a subsistence way. The farm prioritizes animal welfare, adhering to the five freedoms for farm animals. They offer organic food and meals with natural ingredients.
Rinconcito Verde main photo
Rinconcito Verde
Bed & Breakfast in UjarrasParaisoCR flag
8.6
Very Good
From $88
$
+3
Sustainability Journey
Hotel Rinconcito Verde utilizes solar energy and eco-friendly cleaning products. They also incorporate recycling and use LED light bulbs. The hotel provides eco-friendly toiletries in the rooms.
Bella Vista Ranch Ecolodge main photo
Bella Vista Ranch Ecolodge
Hotel in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
9.5
Excellent
From $50
$
+1
Sustainability Journey
Bella Vista Ranch Ecolodge is described as an eco-friendly retreat. It is located on a working farm. The lodge offers guests the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area through activities like cycling and hiking.
Hotel Villa Florencia main photo
Hotel Villa Florencia
Hotel in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
7.7
Good
From $122
$
+4
Sustainability Journey
Hotel Villa Florencia is an eco-friendly hotel that aims to be as self-sustainable as possible, minimizing its environmental impact. The hotel participates in the Best Practices program of Rainforest Alliance, monitoring water and energy usage, using biodegradable cleaning products, and engaging in recycling and tree planting programs.
Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco main photo
Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco
Hotel in CartagoCartagoCR flag
8.4
Very Good
From $81
$
+1
Sustainability Journey
Hotel y Restaurante El Guarco has an eco-friendliness rating. While specific eco-friendly practices are not detailed, the hotel is recognized for its commitment to minimizing its impact on the environment and working with local communities.
Casa Hacienda La Esperanza main photo
Casa Hacienda La Esperanza
Bed & Breakfast in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
9.5
Excellent
From $200
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Parking
Small
Hotel Cabañas y Mirador Secret Garden CR main photo
$
+3
Sustainability Journey
Questionnaire
Certifications:
LEED Certification level: Silver (50-59 points earned)
Certification for Sustainable Tourism (Central America)
Biosphere Responsible Tourism
Travelife
Green Tourism Business Scheme
Certification for Sustainable Tourism (Costa Rica)
Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?
Hydro
What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?
Building materials from sustainable resources
The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning
The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating
Windows that block heat/cold (i.e. triple-glazed windows)
Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)
Use of non-toxic cleaning products
Serving organic food at the restaurant
LED lighting throughout the premises
Employees are trained to follow environmental policies
Carbon footprint is measured by recognised CO2 measurement tool
Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush
Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request
Toilet paper made of non-chlorine bleached paper or awarded with an eco-label
Waste is separated into at least 3 categories
Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced
A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant
Hotel Rivel - Restaurant & Nature Retreat main photo
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Family
Pool
Outdoor Pool
Hotel Green Mountain turrialba main photo
Hotel Green Mountain turrialba
Hotel in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
5.7
Rated
$
+3
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Dog Friendly
Business
Reserva y Estancia Robles Mimosos Lodge main photo
Reserva y Estancia Robles Mimosos Lodge
Bed & Breakfast in CartagoCartagoCR flag
7.9
Good
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Small
Parking
Boutique Hotel Casa de Lis, Turrialba main photo
From $43
$
+1
Info
Summary of reviews
Boutique Hotel Casa de Lis, Turrialba in Turrialba is a charming boutique hotel that consistently receives praise for its exquisite location, exceptional service, and welcoming ambience. Situated in the heart of the town, the hotel offers easy access to Turrialba's main attractions and activities, such as rafting and exploration of the surrounding sights, while maintaining a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for guests. Despite some challenges with limited parking availability, the hotel's location remains a strong point for travelers.

Guests frequently commend the staff for their friendliness and attentive service, highlighting their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with queries and recommendations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The accommodations are noted for their cleanliness and comfort, with well-furnished rooms equipped with necessary amenities providing a cozy retreat. While some rooms face the street and may experience noise, others offer tranquil garden views, which many guests appreciate.

The breakfast experience at Casa de Lis contributes to a delightful start to the day, with guests enjoying a variety of excellent and plentiful options at nearby cafes, often claiming these meals as some of their best in Costa Rica. The hotel's cleanliness is widely praised, with guests describing everything from rooms to shared kitchen facilities as immaculate, reflecting high standards of hygiene and upkeep.

Casa de Lis caters well to families, offering thoughtfully arranged family rooms and communal kitchen facilities, making it a practical choice for group stays. Beds are generally comfortable, though some guests mention the need for improvement in mattress quality. Nonetheless, the positive attributes of the accommodations overwhelmingly outweigh any negatives.

Overall,
Boutique Hotel Casa de Lis, Turrialba is celebrated as a hidden gem, offering a tranquil, boutique-style haven. Its combination of excellent location, charming atmosphere, welcoming staff, and pristine condition makes it a standout choice for visitors seeking a pleasant and memorable stay in Turrialba.
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Boutique-Style
Family
Cabañas Colibrí Tayutic main photo
Cabañas Colibrí Tayutic
Campground in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
8.1
Very Good
From $59
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Parking
Coffee Pickers Village By Hacienda Orosi main photo
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Family
Pool
Heated Pool
Outdoor Pool
Reventazon River Mountain Ranch main photo
Reventazon River Mountain Ranch
Bed & Breakfast in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
9.6
Excellent
From $99
$
+1
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Hotel Wagelia Espino Blanco main photo
Hotel Wagelia Espino Blanco
Lodge in TurrialbaTurrialbaCR flag
8.2
Very Good
From $110
$
+1
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Parking
Accessible
La Casa de Mamá Coyita main photo
La Casa de Mamá Coyita
Hotel in CartagoCartagoCR flag
8.6
Very Good
$
+1
Info
Summary of reviews
La Casa de Mamá Coyita offers an exceptional experience for travelers visiting Cartago, combining convenience, charm and warm hospitality. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, it is within easy reach of the city’s main attractions. The central location, coupled with a tranquil atmosphere enriched by a lush garden and traditional decor, provides a serene retreat. The hotel’s thoughtful design ensures restful nights even in Cartago’s chilly winds with comfortable beds adding to the cozy ambiance.

The breakfast at
La Casa de Mamá Coyita is a highlight, famous for its delicious and fresh home-cooked meals, including traditional regional dishes like Gallo pinto. Guests appreciate the early morning preparations and the communal dining experience which fosters a sense of community. The family-style setting and the host's accommodating nature make breakfast an enjoyable start to the day.

The rooms, described as elegant and cozy, uphold high standards of cleanliness and functionality. Most rooms are spacious and well-equipped, reflecting a beautiful Costa Rican style. Some minor inconveniences such as old furniture and occasional lack of windows exist, but overall, the comfort and style of the accommodations are highly praised. The meticulously maintained environment ensures everything is in order, contributing to guests’ satisfaction.

Visitors consistently applaud the exceptional hospitality of the staff, who are friendly, warm and eager to assist. The owners, Mamá Coyita and her son, leave a lasting positive impression through their kindness and helpfulness. The welcoming family atmosphere created by their attentiveness and genuine approach enhances the overall experience.

La Casa de Mamá Coyita is particularly noted for its family-friendly environment, exuding the warmth of a typical Costa Rican home. The cozy home-like environment and family-style breakfast create a comforting atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. This charming family accommodation is ideal for those seeking an authentic, comforting stay in Cartago, complete with a familial touch.
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Family
Parking
Casa Bartzis, Close to Orosi and Tapanti National Park main photo
From $80
$
+2
Info
Categories
Sustainability Journey
Parking
Small
*Additional taxes or fees may apply. Please check the final price before completing your booking.Showing 1-20 out of 30 hotels in Cartago
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