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The magnificent Iguazu Falls, located about where Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina join borders, are ranked as the second largest waterfalls in the world. This UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site is a collection of 275 falls that extend over 1.7 miles in total, reaching anywhere from 197 to 269 feet in height. The Iguazu Falls were discovered in 1542 by Spanish commander Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca. They were created by a geological fault about 200,000 years ago, but ancient myths have a different explanation:

It is said that many years ago, there was a big and monstrous serpent god who lived in the Iguazú River, and its name was Boi. Once a year, the Guaraní people had to sacrifice a beautiful maid as an offer to Boi by throwing her to the river. All of the tribes, including the ones that lived far away, were invited for this ceremony. One year, a young warrior named Tarobá found out that the beautiful maid Naipí was chosen for the sacrifice. He rebelled to elderly members of the tribe, trying in vain to convince them not to offer her.

To save his beloved Naipí, he decided to escape with her on the night before the sacrifice. They stole a canoe and fled down the river. But Boi caught them and became furious. He drove his serpent body into the ground, which split the river and formed the falls, engulfing Naipí and Tarobá in their canoe.

Tarobá became the trees on the cliffs above the falls, and the beautiful Naipí was transformed into a rock. Their punishment is to always see each other but never be together again.

Boi retreated into a cave, where he watches Naipí and Tarobá be forever separated. However, on sunny days, a rainbow surpasses Boi's power and joins the trees to the rock, symbolizing Naipí and Tarobá's eternal love.

Photo courtesy of Yacutinga Lodge.

This entry was posted on January 10, 2014 at 2:10 PM and has received 365 views. There are currently 0 comments. Print this entry.

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Our Making a Difference winner this month is Yacutinga Lodge, a very special sustainable lodge in Argentina located in the middle of the jungle and very close to one of South America's most famous attractions -- Iguazu Falls. The hotel is part of a small group of lodging providers in the department of Misiones that recently achieved Rainforest Alliance verification for sustainable tourism. As the first business in Argentina to earn Rainforest Alliance verification, it is a pioneer in the field of sustainability nationwide.

Yacutinga Lodge's director Carlos Sandoval tells us more about why tourists love this hotel, its history, and its efforts to remain an ally of the environment.

Question: What makes Yacutinga Lodge's location so special?

Sandoval: Yacutinga Lodge is located in one of the last remnants of the Interior Atlantic Forest ecoregion, which used to be the second largest forest in Latin America up until the early 20th century. Today, the forest that's left remains an area of very high biodiversity, rich in endemic species, with nearly 500 species of birds and more than 700 species of butterflies. Our guests can explore the curiosities of this subtropical forest accompanied by professional ecologists and native Guarani guides in Yacutinga's private nature reserve.

In addition, we are close to the legendary Iguazu Falls, a main attraction for visitors to southern South America.

Q: Why did you decide to build a sustainable lodge instead of a traditional one?

Sandoval: Yacutinga Lodge was created to be the economic backbone of a larger environmental project in the region. It was made for lovers of nature and for the intelligent traveler who wants to interact responsibly with the environment.

Q: What are the importance and benefits of becoming Rainforest Alliance Verified^TM ?

Sandoval: Achieving Rainforest Alliance verification is a reflection of our commitment to continuous improvement. We are delighted to receive this distinction after working so hard since the lodge was opened years ago to support sustainability. We hope that the Rainforest Alliance verified seal will now help us attract responsible tourists and build a sustainable identity.

Q: What were the main challenges you had to overcome to build and now run a business that is friendly to the environment and the communities?

Sandoval: Throughout the history of this project, there was one undeniable challenge: building with local labor in a quasi-pristine environment of tangled, wet jungle, far from modern civilization. It took us two years of intensive but highly constructive and creative work. Everyone involved participated enthusiastically, sharing technical or empirical knowledge and showing great coordination to optimize costs and efforts in a difficult working environment that had no drinking water, electricity, or roads. We consider ourselves late 20th century pioneers.

After inaugurating Yacutinga, the second great challenge began: constantly improving the delivery of services to ensure guest satisfaction and to keep local staff trained. This chapter is still alive, and it is a never ending process.

Q: How has Yacutinga's private wildlife refuge helped protect the valuable ecosystem in which it's located?

Sandoval: The refuge, which we administer, has been essential in protecting the region's natural resources. This reserve is a stronghold for the conservation of the Paraná Forest. Many scientific studies funded by Yacutinga Lodge have been carried out that have high academic value and have provided important data for improving our management of the area. We've used this information to make the hotel a self-sustaining economic and conservation system.

More than 320 species of birds and 572 species of butterflies have been documented in the reserve, and we even discovered 70 species that were new to Argentina and one subspecies new to science! We have planted over 20,000 native trees in the reserve as part of the project for forestry enrichment that we have been developing for six years. We also have volunteer and environmental education programs that we consider the soul of the Yacutinga project.

Q: Do you do anything to benefit the Guarani indigenous people?

Sandoval: The neighboring Kagui Pora community is a Guarani settlement of about 45 families who have many immediate and structural needs. We are constantly supporting them, not with a "charitable" approach but rather by training them to adapt to the dynamic of today's world without losing their roots. Little by little, and with great respect, we invite them to be involved in our ecotourism activities and our DO project, which aims to recycle non-polluting wastes generated by the lodge and transform them into art.

Q: How can tourists get involved with your sustainability efforts?

Sandoval: We invite guests to actively participate during their stay and provide ideas and contacts to help them do so. We do not ask for help or donations; we encourage them to have a respectful and responsible attitude toward our ecosystem and the local communities.

Q: What are Yacutinga's plans for keeping current and making improvements in the realm of sustainability?

Sandoval: We believe that keeping current requires constant improvement and maintaining the love for what you do. Regarding project sustainability, we aim to get the authorities more actively engaged with our work, since the threats are coming from outside of our gates. We need a stronger stance from those who govern us, one that is characterized by a long-term vision for solving together the negative impacts generated by the exploitative culture that has traditionally prevailed in the area.

This entry was posted on December 3, 2013 at 4:49 PM and has received 910 views. There are currently 0 comments. Print this entry.

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The Amazon jungle area near the border between Ecuador and Peru is one of the most remote and well-protected parts of the western Amazon Basin. It is a pristine region surrounded by forests are home to at least 19 species of mammals, and 37 species of amphibians as well as 11 reptile and 250 bird species. Also in this region is an indigenous community called the Achuar or "the people of the achu palm" -- a plant that is abundant in the swamps of the area.

The Achuar still maintain their rich ancestral traditions, and for years they have made a living from subsistence agriculture, hunting, fishing, and gathering in the tropical moist forest. In 1993, these communities decided to venture into tourism as a new opportunity for economic development.

In 1996, the Achuar allied with an Ecuadorian entrepreneur to found Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve. The hotel was built by local craftsmen using materials from the area and in a native style. About 90 percent of Kapawi's staff is Achuar, and they ensure that the hotel's operations are "ecologically responsible and culturally sensitive" according to the dictates of their own lifestyle.

After only a few years, the community project became a complete success. National Geographic named it one of the "Best Hotels in Ecuador" in 2011 and it won the Ecuador Prize of the United Nations 2010 Program for Development, the "Ecotourism Award 2002" from Skal International Tourism Professionals, and the "Ecotourism Excellence 2000" prize from Conservation International. This year, the Rainforest Alliance recognized Kapawi as a "2013 Sustainable Standard-Setter" during its annual gala in New York City.

General manager Andres Ordóñez tells us about Kapawi's success as a business, an engine of development, and a tool for preserving Achuar culture.

Question: Why did the Achuar opt for tourism instead of other activities to diversify their income?

Ordóñez : When the project began in the mid-1990s, the economic development outlook for these communities was not very positive. In decades past, there had been a lot of conflict stemming from oil exploration and exploitation. Agriculture was not a good option either due to geographical conditions, and because the local people needed nothing more than their vegetable gardens for home consumption anyway. So tourism emerged as an innovative proposal that allowed them to generate revenue, fulfill their desire for recognition, consolidate themselves as a nationality, and obtain legal possession of their lands. Moreover, it made them pioneers in the region.

Q: How have the local people benefited from Kapawi's great success?

O: More than a brand and a business, the hotel is the spearhead of the Achuar Nationality of Ecuador. Kapawi has become a tool for preserving Achuar culture and lands through sustainable tourism, which has generated many jobs and training opportunities, and has exposed these communities to the world as the guardians of the jungle.

Q: Can you expand on how the hotel contributes to the economic welfare of Achuar communities?

O: In addition to providing employment and training, the funds raised from tourist entry fees are delivered quarterly to the community for various needs. The priority is to support health and education, so money is first allocated to clinics and schools. Then the administrative costs of the six communities are divided up, and additional money is investmented in training, workshops and innovative projects, such as building the first solar canoe of the Amazon, now in the final implementation phase.

Q: Why did Kapawi seek SmartVoyager certification and Rainforest Alliance Verification?

O: Certifications and verifications help support responsible management by endorsing our hard work and reinforcing the actions the hotel is taking for sustainability.

Q: How did Kapawi's employees feel about receiving the Rainforest Alliance's "2013 Sustainable Standard-Setter Award"?

O: The news was received with a lot of excitement due to the award's international significance and because the Rainforest Alliance has been special ally of Kapawi's for many years. This award recognized the communities' management, particularly Kapawi's staff, who consider themselves to be Ecuadorians who understand the importance of sustainability. We are very proud to be one of the few companies that have sustainable tourism as the core of its operations.

Q: What are the main challenges the lodge is facing?

O: The main challenge is keeping Achuar culture active and alive, because the temptations to deviate are many. The hotel is now 100 percent owned by the community, which is a great achievement--but it also means that the owners do not yet have sufficient economic resources to recapitalize and innovate, which is essential for facing regional competition and growing costs.

Q: Is it more difficult to keep the traditional culture alive when you must adapt to the modern needs of the business, such as adopting new technologies and learning other languages?

O: As Darwin said, "The species that survives is the one that adapts to changes." Contemporary dynamism accelerates some changes, but the Achuar have maintained a relationship of harmony and respect with their land, which has been the keystone to preserving strong ties with their roots and maintaining a business based on their traditions. Technology, the internet, and learning languages are business tools that strengthen the company and help the Achuar share their culture with the world.

Q: How do you plan to maintain and improve Kapawi Ecolodge's sustainable tourism business model?

O: We have to maintain practices for cultural and environmental sustainability while working simultaneously on business model innovation. We want Kapawi's positive impact to reach more communities and boost productive development. We are already working on this and we hope to start a new phase in 2014.

Q: How has your life changed since you starting working at Kapawi?

O: I have worked in the tourism sector for 18 years and in community tourism for 10 years; however, this work is special. Working at Kapawi involves extraordinary commitment and long term dedication because we must not only meet the objectives of the business, but also support the vision of an entire people--of 7,000 people who want to preserve their culture and nature and live in harmony with it.

This entry was posted on July 9, 2013 at 1:01 PM and has received 1909 views. There are currently 0 comments. Print this entry.

Our Making a Difference award winner for this month is duPlooy's Jungle Lodge, a Rainforest Alliance Verified eco-hotel situated on the banks of the Macal River in Belize. duPlooy's blew us away with their thoughtful and comprehensive sustainability plan (available on their SustainableTrip.org profile), which tackles important issues such as energy consumption, food sourcing, building materials, community outreach, and more. We spoke with owner Judy duPlooy to find out more about her impressive Belizean lodge.

Q: What kinds of wildlife can guests expect to see at your lodge?

duPlooy: Guests can enjoy what we call the "morning show" - with your complimentary coffee each morning, you can see up to 20 bird species visiting our feeder. We encourage guests to start looking for the species they see at the feeder in bird books and on bird walks. Exposing our guests to these creatures increases awareness of the need to protect them.

We've also counted six hummingbird species visiting the feeders and flowers around our deck, and a small colony of bats lives at the end of our canopy walkway. Kinkajous, also known as honey bears, regularly visit our deck at night.

In total, over 300 species of birds can be found around the property. Agoutis, armadillos, and gibnuts run around near the rooms and in the botanic gardens. Coatamundis have been seen on the trails in the rainforest restoration area. People also see foxes quite often, as well as the occasional jagurundi, margay, or jaguar. There are 38 species of bats on the property, 9 species of frog, tarantulas, iguanas, basilisk lizards, and several other lizard species. River otters have been spotted occasionally by the river.

Q: Why is beef not on the menu?

dP: duPlooy's has never served beef, in part because cattle ranching is responsible for a lot of deforestation in the region. Ranchers clear forestland to provide pasture and grow food for the animals. There is also a methane problem associated with raising cattle, and we often do not agree with the way these animals are treated.

As an alternative, we serve organic or free range chickens and eggs when possible.

Q: What can your guests do to learn about local culture and customs?

dP: To learn about ancient cultures, travelers can visit the four major Mayan sites accessible from duPlooy's, as well as caves that are designated archaeological sites. Guests learn about present-day Belizean culture through interaction with our staff and their guides. They can also visit a local women's co-op, the local market, and the town of San Ignacio.

In October, we will be opening our food deck, which will feature a Mayan-style fogone (stove) and participatory cooking demonstrations for our guests. If space allows, we will also open this to the public. We will also feature food from other cultures of Belize and unusual fruits from the gardens.

Q: What do your guests say they enjoyed the most when they leave duPlooy's?

dP: They enjoy the adventures – caves, Mayan sites, and horseback riding. Guests also love our botanic gardens and trails and tubing, swimming, and canoeing the Macal River from our beach.

We like it best when they complement our staff, service and food -- which they often do!

Q: Why is sustainability so important to your hotel?

dP: When we came to Belize in 1988, we recognized the importance of sustainability. Time has only reinforced this notion, as we are seeing more and more natural resources destroyed all over the world. The idea that something should be left for future generations is one that we would like to share with others. The property has been organic and has composted organic waste since 1988. We have chosen not to grow our own vegetables, but rather to support local farmers and encourage them to grow organically. We have seen a great response to our needs, as farmers include more variety of produce in the market and make more efforts to stop using chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

We have tried to avoid having thatched roofs as much as possible, because the palm commonly used for thatching is generally not harvested in a sustainable fashion. The only thatched roofs we have are on our Maya house in the botanic gardens and a palapa on duPlooy's property, and these roofs were constructed from sustainably harvested palms grown on the property.

Q: How are you supporting the local community?

dP: There is a program at the adjacent Belize Botanic Gardens to host local school visits. We support the program in conjunction with the International Palm Society and the Darwin Initiative. Children visit the gardens and learn about environmental issues as well as the importance of conservation. We have developed an environmental board game, which they play after their walk through the gardens to help them retain what they have learned.

With European Union funding, Belize Botanic Gardens and duPlooy's have initiated a Professional Gardeners' Training Program that offers training to under-employed and unemployed Belizeans. The program emphasizes native plants, organic agriculture, and conservation. We believe there to be a good job market for trained gardeners in Belize, especially within the tourism industry.

Q: Of all the hotels in the area, what makes duPlooy's special?

dP: At duPlooy's you can have breakfast with aracaris, happy hour with hummingbirds, and dinner with kinkajous on our jungle deck. Our extensive trail system can take you to a cave, upstream to canoe or tube back to duPlooy's beach, or even to the Xunantunich Mayan site.

Guests love our beautiful location on the Macal River with a natural beach as well as our beautiful grounds. There's also our friendly and attentive hotel staff and guides and our delicious healthy food, locally sourced wherever possible. We also have lots of on-site activities – gardens, canoeing, tubing, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and birding.

Adjacent to the lodge is Belize's only botanic garden, which features a 37-acre (15-hectare) rainforest restoration area, medicinal trail, native orchid house, traditional Maya house, savannah trail, palm exhibit, 30-foot lookout tower, and some of the best bird and nature guides in Belize.

Visit duPlooy's profile on SustainableTrip.org to learn even more about this spectacular hotel!

This entry was posted on July 25, 2012 at 11:09 AM and has received 938 views. There are currently 0 comments. Print this entry.

On November 11, 2011, the New 7 Wonders of Nature were finally announced after a four-year voting period. The list features the most impressive natural spots on Earth according to millions of voters all over the world. The winners of the provisional count (the final count will be announced in early 2012) are:

1. The Amazon
2. Halong Bay
3. Iguazu Falls
4. Jeju Island
5. Komodo
6. Puerto Princesa Underground River
7. Table Mountain

We are absolutely thrilled that the Amazon topped the list! It's such a significant place--not only is it one of the world's most biodiverse regions, it also produces 20 percent of the Earth's oxygen, earning the nickname the "lungs" of our planet.

Here we share a selection of sustainable hotels in Peru and Ecuador where you can enjoy the beauty of the Amazon rainforest while also supporting its preservation.

Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve, Ecuador

Kapawi Ecolodge is located near the junction of the Pastaza and Capahuari Rivers, close to the national border with Peru. This exclusive, sustainable ecolodge was built with local materials and traditional techniques using low-impact, environmentally-friendly technologies. The lodge belongs to the local indigenous Achuar people and offers many comforts, as well as a boutique with handcrafts made by the Achuar. Highlights include a wide spectrum of wildlife, and many places where you can observe diverse flora and fauna, such as balconies, hammocks and lounge chairs.

Sani Lodge, Ecuador

Sani Lodge is very unique–not only is it fully owned and operated by the indigenous Kichwa Sani Island community, it also manages and protects the largest expanse of tropical moist forest in all of Ecuador. With black caimans that can reach 16 feet (5 meters), rare and threatened "chorongo" monkeys, 550 bird species, 13 species of primates, and more than 100 species of amphibians, Sani Lodge offers a wide array of wildlife watching opportunities.

Manatee Amazon Explorer, Ecuador

The Manatee Amazon Explorer is an exclusive floating hotel in the Ecuadorian Amazon, offering guided excursions and four, five, and eight-day cruises that visit indigenous communities and explore rivers where you can discover unique plants and animals. The friendly staff, excellent nature guides, and brilliant natural surroundings make this trip unforgettable.

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, Peru

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica is a comfortable, elegant retreat located by the Madre de Dios River in the Tambopata National Reserve, a region widely known as Peru's biodiversity capital. Visitors can enjoy a range of land and river tours as well as easy access to a 29,650-acre (12,000-hectare) private rainforest reserve. As part of the Peruvian research organization Inkaterra, which has more than 35 years of experience in sustainable tourism, environmental and social preservation are a key aspect of this hotel.

Wasai Tambopata Lodge, Peru

This lodge is located in the heart of the Amazon, on the banks of the Tambopata River in the Tambopata Candamo National Reserve, a place of abundant natural beauty. Surrounded by primary rainforest, there are 12 miles (20 km) of trails through private and protected areas of forest that host a great variety of birds, mammals, and amphibians. Other exciting attractions in the region include the local community of Baltimore, the El Gato Waterfalls, the Bahuaja Sonene National Park with a spectacular parrot clay lick, and the majestic Lake Sandoval, where families of otters live.

For more information on sustainable travel, visit SustainableTrip's sustainable tourism section, or the Country Walkers website, an initiative that released a beautiful guide to community-based tourism in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

We hope that we've inspired you to visit this unique part of the world, where the most rare and awe-inspiring plant and wildlife species still thrive!

This entry was posted on November 23, 2011 at 5:30 PM and has received 1566 views. There are currently 3 comments. Print this entry.

Visiting Costa Rica´s Southern Pacific region feels like  a new world; bountiful nature  and vibrant shades of green provide a welcome boost of fresh air and rejuvenation. A surprising range of biodiversity can still be found here. National Geographic has called it "one of the most biologically intense places on earth".

Costa Ballena – The Doorway to the South

The Costa Ballena, or "whale coast" is located at the northern end of this beautiful part of Costa Rica. Its captivating coastline includes beaches such as Playa Dominical, Playa Uvita, and Playa Tortuga, which offer various water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, diving, surfing, and scuba diving. The Terraba-Sierpe River is home to one of Costa Rica's largest mangroves. Marino Ballena National Park features the Pacific Coast's largest coral reef and is visited each year by various species of whales and dolphins, including the majestic humpback whale.

La Cusinga Ecolodge

Tucked away in a 600-acre private rainforest reserve, La Cusinga is nestled in the hills and overlooks the jungle and ocean. Its ten rustic cabins have an environmentally-friendly design and its open-air restaurant provides fresh foods from the hotel's own farm. The lodge's active environmental and social efforts include reforestation projects, environmental education in local schools, and much more.

Hotel Villas Río Mar

Located on the banks of the Barú River just 2,624 feet (800 meters) from the beach, Hotel Villas Río Mar is  walking distance from the popular Dominical village and beach, which is popular for its excellent surf. The hotel incorporates its natural surroundings and boasts large gardens. Regular clean-up campaigns on the beach, waste separation, and the use of solar panels to heat water are part of the environmental preservation activities undertaken by hotel, whereas social activities include participation in various community development committees and cooperation with local institutions such as schools, police, and religious organizations.

Mar y Selva Ecolodge

Facing the beautiful Marino Ballena National Park, Mar y Selva Ecolodge is located only 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from the beach and offers numerous activities such as swimming in the semi-Olympic pool, indulging in a massage, and listening to the sounds of nature from the terraces.  The more adventurous can rent mountain bikes or kayaks and explore the surroundings, Nearby activities include horseback riding, canopy tours, hiking, bird-watching, and much more. The ecolodge's dedication to preserving the natural and social environment is reflected in its waste management, energy conservation, support of a local school, and donations to various causes,

Bodhi Surf School

Located in the authentic and beautiful town of Uvita, Bodhi Surf School combines inner and outer wellness with its surf lessons as well as surf and yoga packages. A personalized surfing experience that teaches how to connect with nature is enhanced by the opportunity to increase inner awareness through yoga, and social awareness through participating in community projects. The school incorporates conservation in its business practices and cooperates with a wide variety of local community and international programs.

Osa Peninsula - the Tranquil South

The perfect starting point for the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay, is located in between this area's two main attractions. The first is Corcovado National Park, one of the only untouched costal rainforests in the world. The park's wide variety of ecosystems hosts an astonishing range of wildlife such as scarlet macaws, jaguars, pumas, the harpy eagle, and other endangered species. Besides being one of the country's most exciting scuba diving spots, Caño Island Reserve is home to mysterious pre-Colombian stone spheres, all of which are hand-carved . Some researchers believe that the indigenous population made these spheres to represent the Earth and the cosmos, whereas others claim they served as ancient navigational markers.

The Golfo Dulce Reserve and Piedras Blancas National Park conclude the southern area of Costa Rica, and together with Corcovado National Park they form a biological corridor that connects multiple wildlife refuges. The secluded beaches and bays along Golfo Dulce provide calm waters for peaceful swimming and unique opportunities to spot rare and endangered wildlife.

Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge This lodge is the perfect starting point to explore Corcovado and Caño Island. Not only is it located in impressive natural surroundings, it has also been awarded the highest level of certification from the national Certification for Sustainable Tourism program (CST). Some of Casa Corcovado´s conservation activities include recycling, the use of alternative energy sources, and active community involvement. Its bungalows are designed in an eco-friendly way and nestled into the lush natural surroundings to ensure optimal privacy.

Lapa Ríos Ecolodge

Lapa Rios Ecolodge is a unique ecolodge designed in harmony with the surrounding forest and beach environment, overlooking the pristine point where the Golfo Dulce meets the wild Pacific Ocean. Lapa Rios has won worldwide awards for social and environmental excellence; guests  support rainforest conservation and help the lodge provide direct employment and income to more than 50 families in the area. Moreover, the lodge protects and preserves 1,000 acres (40 hectares) of primary and secondary rainforest in the Lapa Rios private reserve.  It also engages with the local community by providing education and job training, and educates guests about rainforest conservation and the local culture.

Playa Nicuesa Lodge

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is located on a 165-acre (67 hectare) private preserve. Reachable only by boat, the lodge has been uniquely designed to enable an intimate encounter with pristine nature, while at the same ensuring its preservation. With the ocean in its front yard and thousands of acres of tropical rainforest in its backyard, beach, nature, and adventure activities abound and provide the basis for plentiful educational opportunities.

Golfo Dulce Lodge

The Golfo Dulce Lodge is a private nature reserve protecting approximately 750 acres (300 hectares) of tropical lowland primary rainforest and secondary forest. This remote, certified eco-lodge is only accessible by boat and thus enables an incomparable natural experience. The lodge's conservation efforts are nearly as plentiful as the wildlife in the surrounding area, and include the eco-friendly construction of the lodge, staff education on sustainability topics, regular beach clean-ups, and much more.

This entry was posted on October 18, 2011 at 1:06 PM and has received 1243 views. There are currently 2 comments. Print this entry.

Mexico offers a range of experiences that is as large as its geographical size. Driving through vast deserts for hours, sipping cocktails by the beach, visiting authentic and colorful markets, strolling through colonial towns, and exploring Mayan ruins are all possible in this spectacular country. Mexico features a total of 31 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or those deemed by UNESCO to be of special cultural or physical significance. Here, we feature five of these amazing sites - if you are headed to Mexico, we highly recommend fitting at least one of them into your trip

1. Historic Centre of Mexico City 

Declared a World Heritage Site in 1987, the "Centro Histórico" of Mexico City hosts a myriad of treasures. Built on the ruins of the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, its entire history from the construction of the pre-Hispanic city in 1525, through the country's independence from Spain is reflected in 1,550 historically important buildings. Its collection of archaeological sites and colonial and contemporary buildings include the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, pre-Hispanic ruins of the Templo Mayor (Great Temple), and the Palace of Fine Arts. A variety of famous museums such as the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Art Museum, the Casa Azul of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, and the Museum of Modern Art round out the cultural riches of the country's capital city.

2. Historic Fortified Town of Campeche

Declared a World Heritage Site in 2002, Campeche combines history and culture with exuberant vegetation. This colonial harbor town served as a starting point for several major expeditions. Its historic center is still surrounded by intact walls that were commonly used in  the 17^th and 18^th century to protect cities and towns against invading pirates.

Hacienda Puerta Campeche

This hotel used to be one of the haciendas, beautifully designed by famous European architects, for a flourishing sisal industry in the Yucatán Peninsula in the 1920s. By the 1990s, the magnificent sisal haciendas lay abandoned, and Puerta Campeche is bringing back to life not only this and other former sisal haciendas, it is also committed to the socially and environmentally sustainable development of rural Maya communities.  The Hacienda is certified by the Earthcheck program.

3. Pre-Hispanic City of Chichén Itzá, Yucatán

Declared a World Heritage Site in 1988, this is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in the world and one of the most important examples of Mayan-Toltec civilizations. Buildings such as the El Caracol Great Ball Court, Temple of Kukulkan, El Castillo, and Temple of the Warriors are counted among the masterpieces of Mesoamerican architecture. Moreover this pre-Hispanic city was voted one of the seven new wonders of the world.

Lodge at Chichen Itzá

This beautiful lodge is located in the heart of the Chichen Itzá archeological area. The lodge even features a direct entrance to this fascinating pre-Hispanic city. Its cabins were built in a traditional Maya style, adhering to ecological criteria such as using tropical woods, marble, and palm fronds, yet all cabins are equipped with modern-day conveniences. This Rainforest Alliance Verified lodge serves as a forum for expression and interpretation of Maya traditions, uses, and customs. Located on 62 acres (25 hectares) with beautiful subtropical gardens, it is hard not to be relaxed and inspired after a visit here.

4. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

Meaning "Origin of the Sky" in Mayan, Sian Ka'an was established as a World Heritage Site in 1986.  Located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, this beautiful reserve is a nature lover's paradise – it contains tropical forest, mangroves and a section of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.  Local tour operators offer kayak trips through ancient Mayan lagoons that served as trade routes, excellent opportunities to observe the more than 300 bird species that live in the reserve.   A total of 103 mammal species have been found here, including jaguar, puma, ocelot, tapir, manatees, spider and howler monkeys, deer, anteaters and more. Four species of endangered sea turtles - green, hawksbill, loggerhead, and leatherback- nest on the reserve's beautiful beaches.

Papaya Playa

Located in Tulum, a charming town just north of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Papaya Playa lies on a spectacular white sand beach. The hotel enhances its beautiful natural surroundings to create an atmosphere for guests to relax their minds and bodies. Moreover, the hotel helps preserve native plants, carries out reforestation projects, and protects sea turtles that nest in the area. It also participates in local community programs and supports organizations such as the local Red Cross.

5. Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque

Palenque is one of the most impressive ancient Mayan sites. Located in the lush green jungle of the Lacandon forest in the state of Chiapas, this site boasts well-crafted architecture and beautiful sculptural art. From 600 to 900 A.D. when at its peak, the site's influence extended over what are today the states of Chiapas and Tabasco.Its most famous buildings are The Palace and the Temple of Inscriptions.

Centro Ecoturístico Las Guacamayas (Las Guacamayas Ecotourist Center)

Named for the endangered scarlet macaw, the community-run Las Guacamayas Ecotourist Center hosts a macaw breeding program, an orchid garden, and a wildlife reserve. The community has also set aside 3,615 acres (1,463 hectares) of forest as a private protected area.

 

This entry was posted on September 22, 2011 at 12:49 PM and has received 867 views. There are currently 0 comments. Print this entry.

There are only a few places in the world that offer an exciting mix of ancient and modern cultures with an incredible diversity of natural resources like Guatemala.  Here we feature some of the most beautiful cultural and natural attractions the country has to offer.

Antigua is a beautiful colonial city with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, interesting museums, colonial churches, and an active nightlife. There are also many tour operators in the city that offer activities like hiking, mountain biking, and most excitingly, tours to climb one of the nearby volcanoes.  Chichicastenango is home to an indigenous market where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, find authentic crafts, and improve your bargaining skills.  After wandering the busy markets all day long, the nearby Lake Atitlan offers a welcome rest, providing picturesque views of the tranquil lake ringed by three different volcanoes. One of the most famous highlights in Guatemala is the ancient site of Tikal, home to spectacularly well-preserved Mayan ruins. The surrounding rainforests of the Maya Biosphere Reserve are teeming with exotic wildlife such as jaguars, scarlet macaws, monkeys, and more.  The nearby colorful village of Flores offers a Caribbean climate and atmosphere; for an even deeper immersion in the Caribbean culture, the town of Livingston can be reached on a beautiful boat trip across the Rio Dulce.

Sustainable tourism has recently gained importance in Guatemala, and the Rainforest Alliance has been working with partners like the GREAT Green Deal program, the Guatemala Tourism Board (INGUAT), the Chamber of Tourism, the Universidad del Istmo, and the Guatemalan Exporter's Association to promote Guatemala as a sustainable tourism destination, train business owners in best management practices, and promote sustainable hotels and tour operators to travelers. On September 28^th, the Rainforest Alliance will launch the Tour Operators Promoting Sustainability, or TOPS, a network of Rainforest Alliance Verified tour operators from Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

As a result of all of this hard work, we are excited to feature 16 Rainforest Alliance Verified and 12 GREAT Green Deal certified businesses in SustainableTrip.org.

Here we feature three fun and beautiful hotels that meet the Rainforest Alliance's strict standards for sustainability:

Hotel Villa Colonial

Located in the picturesque center of Antigua along a traditional cobblestone street, this colonial-style hotel offers 54 beautiful rooms and is highly committed to sustainability. Cornerstones of the hotel's sustainability approach are socially responsible environmental conservation, promoting the development of local communities, and supporting local cultures.

Porta Hotel del Lago

Asmember of the Porta Hotels chain, this hotel is located on the beautiful Lake Atitlan and framed by the three impressive volcanoes. The local community is very much involved in and supported by the hotel as it promotes local handicrafts, businesses and services, hiring and training of local staff, fostering understanding and respect for indigenous cultures and customs, and promoting visits to local tourism sites and communities.

Takalik Maya Lodge

This former coffee farm was converted into a hotel to support the 22 families that live and work on the farm. In the process, 25 acres (10 hectares) of forest were dedicated as a private natural reserve. Meanwhile, 29 local residents are employed at the hotel and benefit from a higher standard of living. The hotel moreover promotes tours to the Takalik Abaj Archeological National Park and is a member of the Latin American Community Tourism Network.

This entry was posted on September 13, 2011 at 10:05 AM and has received 1125 views. There are currently 4 comments. Print this entry.

Ever wondered what it feels like to visit the middle of the world? Ecuador, divided in half by the equator between the northern and southern hemispheres, provides the answer. This culturally rich and naturally diverse country offers something for everybody's interests - here's a snapshot of the adventures and sustainable accommodations you'll find in Ecuador's main regions: the Galapagos Islands, the Pacific Coast, the Amazon rainforest, and the Andes Mountains.

The Capital City - Quito

San Francisco de Quito, usually called Quito, is Ecuador's capital.   Originally built on the site of an Inca city in the 16th century, the city's original name is Quitsa-to, which means "middle of the world" in the Tsachila language. Quito is often described as melting pot of art and culture and was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 1970s for its well-preserved historic centre, which includes a wide variety of attractions such as the Independence Plaza, the Government Palace, the Cathedral and the churches of Sagrario, San Agustín, San Francisco, La Compañía, La Merced, La Basílica del Voto Nacional, and Santo Domingo, as well as various museums and beautiful colonial architecture.

Hotel Fuente de Piedra II

Located in the centre of La Mariscal, one of the most traditional and touristic areas in the capital city, this three-star colonial style hostel was built in 2001. It's authentic décor, food, and service makes you feel right at home.

Hotel Patio Andaluz

As part of the original estate grounds of the city, this colonial-style, antique house is located in the historic heart of Quito, close to all the attractions of the city's historic center.

JW Marriot Hotel

This is the first five-star hotel in the country to receive Rainforest Alliance Verification^TM for its social and environmental efforts. Located close to the historic centre of Quito, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views, tropical gardens, and innovative cuisine.

The Middle of the World

Just 9 miles (15 km) from Quito lies the world's only site where the equatorial line crosses over highlands, as opposed to jungle or ocean. The equatorial line is demarcated with the "Mitad del Mundo" monument (meaning "middle of the world"), and an on-site museum offers fun experiments, such as observing how water drains into two different directions in the two different hemispheres. Mitadmundo.com offers more information and a beautiful online panaromic view.

Magical Galapagos Islands

Perhaps Ecuador's most famous attraction is the Galapagos Islands. Located about 620 miles (1,000 kilometers) from the mainland, this archipelago consists of 13 islands brimming with charismatic, exotic wildlife and unforgettable natural landscapes.  Charles Darwin formed his theory of evolution here, and the Galapagos were named the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.  There are a variety of ways to enjoy the Galapagos – on a tour boats, group tours, and wonderful hotels.

Ecoventura – Galápagos Network

Ecoventura offers cruises to the impressive Galápagos Islands, , with extraordinary natural diversity and beauty. With comfortable rooms, small groups, high levels of service and cuisine, this is destined to be an unforgettable experience.

Surtrek Ecuador & Galapagos Tours

This Ecuadorian tour operator offers high quality, first-class service, customized and luxurious tours, incentive trips, and special events for unique and unforgettable travel experiences to the Galapagos, as well as other regions in Ecuador.

Royal Palm Hotel

This luxurious hotel offers comfort, service, and quality at the highest international standards, combined with an extraordinary natural setting surrounded by tropical forest and the highlands of the Cruz Island of the Galapagos archipelago. Conservation efforts range from the very construction of the hotel to reforestation, comprehensive recycling programs, and much more.

Exploring and Enjoying Nature

In addition to its myriad of cultural highlights, Ecuador is one of 17 megadiverse countries in the world, according to Conservation International.  The Ecuadorian government is committed to its protection - the national constitution recognizes the rights of nature, 19% of the country is held within protected areas, and the "Buen Vivir" (good living) national plan aims to sustainably conserve and manage the country's natural heritage.  In addition to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador's mountains and volcanoes, cloud forests, Amazonian rainforests, and stunning coastline offer a playground for nature and adventure lovers looking to go white-water rafting, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, mountain climbing, biking, hiking, bird and whale watching, and more.

Here's a highlight of some of the best hotels Ecuador has to offer:

Pacific Coast: 

Equus Erro Hostería

Located near Machalilla National Park, one of the most environmentally-fragile areas of the country, where the mountains meet the sea, this bed and breakfast is a paradise for lovers of nature and culture. There are opportunities for whale- or bird-watching, visits to archeological sites, and more.

Casa Ceibo Boutique Hotel & Spa

Surrounded by diverse natural settings including wetlands, mangrove islands, wet and dry tropical forests, and ocean, this is the perfect spot to relax your senses. Along the coast, a multitude of towns offer opportunities for traditional cultural experiences.

Amazon Rainforest

Yarina Ecolodge

This lodge is located in a lush private rainforest reserve rich in plant and animal species such as monkeys, caimans, tapirs, capybaras, a variety of birds, and many beautiful plant species.  Top-notch nature viewing opportunities are combined with top-quality service, and a commitment to conservation and supporting the local indigenous community.

Napo Wildlife Center

The location of this eco-lodge is just one of its special features - in terms of plant species, the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve is the second-most biodiverse forest in the world. The local indigenous Kichwa community plays an active part in the conservation of its natural surroundings and offers unique cultural experiences such as learning about ancestral ways of life, local cuisine, handicrafts made of plants by local women, and an interpretation center where shamans recreate cleansing rituals. If you would like to learn more about this eco-lodge, an interesting recent interview can be found here.

Andes Mountains

Termas de Papallacta Spa & Resort

Located only one hour from Quito, this special resort forms the gateway to the Amazonian forest. The hotel has a number of luxurious pools fed by natural hot springs, a number of spa services, making it a perfect escape from the stress of daily life.

Santa Lucía Lodge

This lodge is located in the Santa Lucía Reserve, which contains more than 80% of the primary forest in the western Andes.  This lodge is an unforgettable place for nature-lovers and ideal for bird-watchers – visitors have the chance of seeing rare bird species like the plate-billed mountain toucan (Andigena laminirostris) , Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana), as well as mammals such as pumas, spectacled bears, and more. .The Reserve also has a number of waterfalls, incredible panoramic views, and even Inca ruins.

Hacienda Hato Verde

An excellent destination for those wanting to visit Cotopaxi National Park, Hato Verde is a charming restored cattle ranch. With warm hospitality, fine cuisine and a familiar atmosphere, you will feel right at home.

Hacienda Manteles

Those traveling to the hot springs of Baños will want to visit Hacienda Manteles, a beautiful and elegantly-decorated ranch house just 13 miles (21km) away. Its location between the Sangay World Heritage Site and the Llanganati National Park make it a great destination for horseback rides, mountain biking, canopy zip-lines, whitewater rapids, bird watching  and more.  The hotel also has amazing views of the active Tungurahua volcano.

Ecuador´s Sustainable Tourism Certification

The SmartVoyager Sustainable Tourism Program

To help protect Ecuador's natural and cultural riches, in 2000 the conservation organization Conservación  y Desarrollo (C&D) launched the SmartVoyager program, initially focusing on the tour boats that travel to the Galapagos Islands.

Rainforest Alliance Verification^TM

As you can see, Ecuador is an amazingly diverse country, with countless adventures waiting for you!  Learn more about Ecuador on our "Destinations" page, and check out all of the hotels and tour operators in Ecuador featured on SustainableTrip.org.

The Rainforest Alliance currently works with 35 tour operators and more than 100 hotels in Ecuador, as well as with the Ministry of Tourism to promote Ecuador as a tourism destination through trade shows and presentations, publications, advertisements, press trips and other special events. For more information about Ecuador, visit SustainableTrip.org.

This entry was posted on August 19, 2011 at 10:36 AM and has received 854 views. There are currently 2 comments. Print this entry.

This is the second part of our series on the Rainforest Alliance's work in sustainable tourism. Today we move onto the Northern Plains region of Costa Rica, this time introducing the beautiful cloud forests of Monteverde and some of the wonderful Rainforest Alliance Verified accomodations in the area.

Monteverde is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Costa Rica. The abundance of lush green mountains and the mysterious cloud forests which boast an impressive variety of flora and fauna – such as the elusive resplendent quetzal - have contributed to its reputation as the "green jewel of Costa Rica". A visit to Monteverde seems like a visit to nature's playground - not only is the ecosystem home to more than 2,500 plants, and countless mammals and insects, there are a multitude of ways to explore this green world: canopy tours give you an exciting view of the rainforest from above, hanging bridges allow a slower immersion in the forest, numerous nature trails offer independent or guided tours, or for a completely different experience, the skytram offers comfortable guided tours. Bird-watchers find a true paradise here, with  more than 400 different species and a chance to these the beautiful and elusiveresplendent quetzal. Other exciting activities include night tours of the cloud forest, tours of a cheese factory or coffee farm, horseback riding, biking, or a visit to one of the many butterfly and frog exhibitions in the area.

SustainableTrip.org features several hotels in Monteverde that are working hard to conserve natural resources and support the local community:

Hotel Belmar

Nestled in the mountains of Monteverde, this cloud forest hotel is not only Rainforest Alliance Verified, it also earned 4 out of 5 sustainability leaves from the Costa Rican Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program. Sustainability is a key aspect of the hotel's philosophy; for example, skylights  provide natural lighting in the hotel during daytime and energy-saving fluorescent lights have been installed in 90% of the hotel. Moreover, biodegradable paints and cleaning materials are used around the entire hotel, the garden is maintained naturally without agrochemicals, and the food is mainly organic and locally-sourced. Hotel Belmar also treatsits wastewater with a biodigester to produce bio-gas, which is used as energy to warm the Jacuzzi. A stay at Belmar inspires guests to not only live sustainability while on vacation, but to take a sustainable approach to life home with them.

Hotel Heliconia

Located near the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve and the Santa Elena Rain Forest Reserve, this beautiful hotel integrates sustainability throughout all of its operations. Staff at the reception desk makes informational signs for guest rooms and explain the hotel's sustainability program to guests during check-in. The purchasing department ensures that all products acquired are biodegradable. Hotel maintenance staff contribute by  building separate recycling waste containers to be placed in all common areas of the hotel. Moreover, the hotel has purchased a farm, called Heliconia Rancho Cabecerasm, where dairy products, pork, and poultry are produced. In addition, an earthworm organic compost system has been installed as well as a biodigestor to produce methane gas to be used as fuel.

Hotel El Establo

Located in the heart of Monteverde's main tourism area, this hotel is a converted cattle ranch that implements modern day technology to ensure high-level sustainability and engages staff as well as guests in achieving this goal. More than 80 percent of the property is covered with forests, and the hotel has technologically advanced water treatment plans and a highly efficient computerized system to manage energy use

The Rainforest Alliance is currently working on a sustainable tourism development project with the Monteverde Chamber of Tourism, sponsored by the CRUSA Foundation that provides four hotels and a local tour operator with the technical skills they need to earn Rainforest Alliance Verification. Robert Bailes, a consultant working on the project, explained to us that Monteverde is a unique and important location for sustainale tourism. With 50,000 hectares of cloud forest, it is the biggest and oldest private reserve in Costa Rica and receives between 200-250,000 tourists annually - a significant number, considering that the area is home to only 6,500 permanent residents. According to Bailes, the importance of Monteverde as a sustainable tourism destination has raised local environmental awareness and has motivated the participation of local tourism businesses. The Rainforest Alliance will evaluate participating hotels in mid-July, and will help contribute to the sustainable tourism development of Costa Rica's "green jewel".

 

 

This entry was posted on July 11, 2011 at 7:28 PM and has received 611 views. There are currently 1 comments. Print this entry.