Created by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), the CST programrates and certifies tourism businesses based on their compliance with natural, cultural and social resource management. CSTconsists of fivelevels, called "Leaves",Level five, or Five Leaves, signifies that the company is considered “outstanding in terms of sustainability."
"Our goal is to provide guests with an experience that they will always remember fondly: Excellence, friendly service, high-end accommodations, educational opportunities and unique, well-run adventure activities, and to provide this experience while operating the lodge in the most environmentally-friendly manner possible," explained Playa Nicuesa owners, Michael and Donna Butler.
"We traveled all over Costa Rica and other parts of Central America to find and create a special place where one can intimately experience the natural world of both the tropical rainforest and the Pacific Ocean,†expounded the Costa Rica rainforest lodge owners. “Our plan was to create a place that offers the comfort of a lodge and the activities and diversity of an adventure tour."
The area is part of a giant conservation area including the world-famous Corcovado National Parkon the Osa Peninsula. The unique tropical fjord of Golfo Dulce is a critical habitat for migrating Pacific Humpback Whales, and resident and migratory communities of dolphins and sea turtles.
Lodge buildings are located on less than 2% of property â€" 98% is a private protected area.
Used recycled construction materials, such as: roof tiles on the lodge and cabins made from recycled plastics, including banana bags.
Wood came from naturally fallen trees, permitted by the government to be pulled out of the forest by oxen, or from farmed trees.
Electricity is provided by solar energy. Panels are located on main lodge structure. Back-up generator runs on recycled vegetable oil.
Solar drying room used to dry all of the lodge wash.
Hot water is provided by on-demand propane which means that the propane is used only when the hot water faucet is turned on.
Received the Ecological Blue Flag Award for clean beaches.
Check out Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge “Green Season Specials†for adventure, nature, yoga, relaxation and comfort at great prices through Sept. 30, 2014.