Horizontes Achieves CST Elite Certification – Costa Rica’s Highest Standard in Sustainability

At Horizontes Nature Experiences, we are proud to announce that we have been awarded the Elite level of the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), Costa Rica’s highest distinction for environmental, social, and economic responsibility.

This prestigious recognition, granted by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), honors companies that go beyond compliance and truly embed sustainability into every part of their operations — from how they manage resources and support local communities, to how they inspire travelers to protect nature and culture through meaningful travel experiences.

What Does the CST Elite Certification Mean?

The Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) is a globally recognized program that evaluates tourism companies in key areas such as:

• Environmental management: reducing carbon emissions, conserving water and energy, and protecting biodiversity.
• Community impact: generating fair employment, promoting local entrepreneurship, and supporting social initiatives.
• Cultural preservation: honoring Costa Rica’s heritage and traditions through authentic experiences.
• Customer education: fostering awareness and responsible behavior among travelers.

Achieving the Elite level means Horizontes has met the highest possible standards across all categories — a level reserved for companies that demonstrate exceptional leadership and measurable results in sustainable tourism.

A Legacy of Responsible Travel

For over 40 years, Horizontes has been a pioneer in responsible, tailor-made travel across Costa Rica. Our philosophy is simple: travel should enrich both the traveler and the destination.

This certification reaffirms what our partners and travelers have always experienced with us:

• Authenticity: Journeys that connect deeply with Costa Rica’s people, culture, and nature.
• Integrity: Operations that protect biodiversity and empower local communities.
• Excellence: Seamless logistics, expert naturalist guides, and transformative experiences that inspire change.

“At Horizontes, sustainability has never been a trend — it’s part of who we are. Achieving the CST Elite level is a reflection of decades of work by a passionate team that believes travel can be a force for good. We’re deeply grateful to our partners and travelers who share our commitment to protecting what makes Costa Rica so special.”
— Ana Corrales, Head of Sustainability, Horizontes Nature Experiences

More Than Travel: A Commitment to Costa Rica’s Future

Every itinerary we design, every lodge we partner with, and every guide we train is part of a greater mission — to make tourism a tool for conservation, education, and wellbeing.

By traveling with Horizontes, you support:

• Local communities and small producers through fair partnerships and responsible sourcing.
• Environmental restoration projects that help protect Costa Rica’s rainforests, oceans, and wildlife.
• Educational initiatives that inspire the next generation to love and protect nature.

Why This Recognition Matters

Costa Rica has long been recognized as a global leader in sustainable tourism, and the CST program is one of the most respected certification models in the world.

Being part of the Elite category positions Horizontes among the top sustainable tour operators in Costa Rica — trusted by international partners, travel agents, and eco-conscious travelers who seek ethical and meaningful journeys.

This achievement isn’t just an award — it’s a promise to continue innovating, improving, and leading the transformation of travel in Costa Rica and beyond.

Travel That Makes a Difference

When you choose Horizontes Nature Experiences, you’re choosing more than a trip. You’re joining a movement — a community of travelers, guides, and local families working together to ensure that every journey leaves a positive footprint.

Let’s continue creating authentic experiences that inspire change, protect our natural heritage, and celebrate the beauty of Costa Rica.

Travel with purpose. Travel with Horizontes.