Updated November 7, 2024 by Matt Wilson, CEO of Under30Experiences. He lived in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica for many years and is very familiar with the sustainability issues of the region. Original article was published by Under30Experiences staff member Lauren Coffey.
Creating trips that are sustainable for the environment and the communities that we interact with on a daily basis is one of Under30Experiences' main goals.
Our Costa Rica trip has been operating in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area of Costa Rica for over ten years, and we’re proud supporters of one of the most underprivildged communities in the region, El Cocal.
El Cocal, Costa Rica is an island across the estuary in Quepos that is cut off from the normal services that everyday Costa Ricans enjoy, like trash pickup and a reliable energy grid. The community was started by squatters, and because of Costa Rican law, although they do not provide much support to this community, they don’t ask them to leave the land. Most people have built their homes by hand on land which they don’t actually own, according to the government.
Many of El Cocals’s residents have migrated over the years from places like Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador in search of a better life. It’s a culturally rich neighborhood situated on a stunning beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast.
The Beauty and Challenges of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Surrounded by the beauty of the Manuel Antonio National Park, the communities of Quepos and Manuel Antonio are developed in a touristic environment, building large hotels and tourism projects without taking into account the unintended environmental and social damage they cause to their community.
We always strive to support local businesses and communities, not big tourist traps or companies that are run by foreign corporations. We are trying to be mindful of our waste, care for our environment, and educate both our travelers and our communities about sustainable practices.
The Importance of Being a Traveler, Not a Tourist
The big takeaway is that we strive to be travelers, not tourists. We want to give back to the communities we are involved with and not just consume. Travelers seek to connect with the places they visit, learn about local customs, and contribute positively to the destinations they explore. In contrast, tourism without responsibility can lead to environmental degradation, cultural exploitation, and economic disparities. Our goal is to flip this narrative and show that the tourism sector can be a force for good.
Want to Make a Positive Impact While Traveling?
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica while supporting communities with meaningful, sustainable experiences. Book your adventure now and be part of the change!
Sustainable Community Activity in El Cocal de Quepos
Get ready for a unique and enriching experience that blends adventure with meaningful interactions!
We will embark on an exciting journey aboard a ferry, the only means of transportation to reach the charming community of El Cocal de Quepos, home to approximately 200 families. From the very first moment, you will feel the essence of this special place, where the strength and perseverance of its inhabitants shine through in every story of effort and overcoming challenges.
Our visit will take us to meet Don Geovanny, Doña Ivannia, and their daughter Judith, a family that has been an example of hard work and solidarity. They will welcome us with open arms, inviting us into their home for an authentic culinary experience. We will learn how to prepare traditional empanadas and enjoy a delicious coffee paired with a natural refreshment as we immerse ourselves in the warmth and hospitality of this family.
Making a Difference Through Community Engagement
The adventure continues with Andy Zapata, a young mother who has dedicated her life to the community where she grew up. Andy works tirelessly on environmental education programs and the preservation of values, inspiring children and young people to care for their surroundings.
During our visit, she will share her talent for creating bracelets, a skill she began developing as a child to support her studies and help others. With her enthusiasm and dedication, Andy will show us how every small act of effort can make a big difference. Travelers will have the chance to learn this art form and see how even small creative projects can have a ripple effect of positive impacts within the community. By participating, you become part of a movement that promotes responsible travel and empowers local artisans.
This experience will teach you practical skills and provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of daily life in El Cocal de Quepos. You’ll hear stories of resilience and hope, stories that highlight how the tourism sector can uplift communities when managed thoughtfully. These experiences remind us of the beauty of human connection and the importance of giving back to the places we visit.
Working with the Asociación Grupo Quepos Solidaridad Social Economia Turismo (AGQSSET)
To give you more insight into our work with AGQSSET, we spoke with the Andy, the President of the association to discuss our partnership and the community-driven projects we support:
What motivates you to work in El Cocal?
I grew up in a humble home in this very community, facing poverty, aggression, and the consequences of alcoholism. Understanding these challenges firsthand drives my passion for creating opportunities for the youth. We believe in the power of the tourism industry to make a difference when sustainability is prioritized.
Why does the association work with El Cocal?
Because the community itself has high indicators of vulnerability and social and environmental needs, its board is made up of older adults, and we have achieved great contributions together, such as the expansion of the community hall, seed capital for entrepreneurship as well as training, workshops, and fairs.
What does Cocal represent for you, Quepos, and Manuel Antonio?
It is a beautiful place with a lot of potential and very hard-working people, most of whom work in Manuel Antonio and require training and opportunities to improve.
Why start a project like this in El Cocal?
Because the community needs sources of employment and to improve its quality of life.
What are the needs of the community?
The community lacks job creation, waste management, poverty and lack of opportunities in education and health & wellness.
How is the financial support distributed to the rest of the community?
We provide financial resources to the boatmen, family, and community hall, and we also offer training, cleaning campaigns, and community work, among other activities we organize.
Time for us to eat delicious Costa Rican food!
Our itineraries are thoughtfully crafted to leave a positive impact on both the communities we visit and our travelers. By participating in these experiences, you’ll return home not only with new skills but also with a deeper appreciation for sustainability. You’ll have shared authentic moments with local families and contributed to meaningful projects, embodying the true spirit of responsible travel.
Join Us for a Potentially Life-Changing Experience
Ready to experience this incredible cultural exchange and contribute to sustainable tourism? Join us in Costa Rica, where every adventure is an opportunity to make a difference.
Learn more about our sustainability initiatives below...
FAQs on Ecotourism & Sustainable Tourism:
What is the main goal of sustainable tourism?
The main goal of sustainable tourism is to promote responsible tourism practices that minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage while maximizing economic benefits for destinations. Sustainability is at the core of this mission, ensuring that both natural resources and cultural assets are preserved. At Under30Experiences, we strive to create travel experiences that foster meaningful connections between travelers and destinations, ensuring that these places can thrive for generations. This approach balances enjoying travel while protecting what makes each destination unique.
What are the 5 pillars of sustainable tourism?
Sustainable tourism is guided by five key pillars that help shape responsible tourism practices:
1. Environmental Preservation: Protecting natural resources and habitats to safeguard biodiversity by conserving water and energy, reducing waste, and promoting eco-friendly initiatives.
2. Cultural Respect: Preserving the traditions and values of local communities, encouraging authentic cultural exchanges, and maintaining the unique identity of each destination.
3. Economic Benefits: Generating opportunities for local economies through responsible tourism spending, supporting local businesses, and creating sustainable jobs.
4. Social Equity: Ensuring tourism's benefits are distributed equitably, focusing on inclusivity, gender equality, and the fair treatment of all community members.
5. Traveler Education: Teaching travelers the importance of sustainability, informing them about the impacts of tourism, and empowering them to make responsible choices.
We do our best to bring these pillars to life by partnering with local communities, embracing sustainability through Leave No Trace principles, and creating experiences that emphasize the value of responsible tourism.
What is the meaning of sustainable travel?
Sustainable travel means engaging in responsible tourism that seeks to minimize the environmental, social, and economic impacts of tourism. This form of travel emphasizes protecting natural resources, respecting the cultures of destinations, and making choices that leave a positive mark. Sustainability is a guiding principle in these practices, influencing decisions like reducing carbon footprints, choosing eco-friendly accommodations, and supporting local economies. At Under30Experiences, we champion sustainable travel by crafting journeys that are not only memorable but also protect the environment and uplift local communities.
What are sustainable tourism types?
Sustainable tourism includes various types, each aimed at reducing tourism’s negative impacts while emphasizing economic benefits and preserving the essence of destinations. Here are some main types:
1. Eco-Tourism: Nature-focused travel that emphasizes environmental conservation, protecting natural resources, and educating travelers about ecosystems and sustainability.
2. Cultural Tourism: Encourages respectful cultural interactions, where travelers learn about and engage with local traditions while preserving the cultural heritage of the destination.
3. Community-Based Tourism: Engages travelers in local community life, ensuring that economic benefits are distributed fairly and that tourism supports community well-being.
4. Adventure Tourism: Includes responsible tourism activities like hiking and rafting, conducted with a focus on minimizing environmental impacts and supporting local economies.
5. Agro-Tourism: Connects travelers with local farming practices, offering experiences like farm stays and tours that promote sustainability in agriculture and highlight the economic benefits to local farmers.
We intend to craft travel experiences that weave these sustainability principles into every adventure, blending cultural immersion and community engagement while honoring the natural resources and unique cultures of each destination.
Learn more about our itineraries on Under30Experiences.com.
