Investing in Nature’s Beauty
Costa Rica unveils an ambitious investment of $4.5 million over the next trio of years, aimed at bolstering tourism facilities and infrastructure across its revered National Parks.
Priority Park Upgrades
The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) has highlighted the earmarking of these funds for critical improvements in prominent parks such as Manuel Antonio, Tenorio Volcano, Guayabo National Monument, Carara, Arenal Volcano, Irazú in the Prusia sector, and Los Quetzales. The selection criterion revolved around parks with consistently high footfall.
In the words of SINAC’s public investment coordinator, Karla Vázquez, “This translates to an annual commitment of $1.5 million, locked in for three years with a potential extension for another three, stretching the initiative up to 2028.”
Focus for 2023
Come 2023, the spotlight will be on Manuel Antonio, Volcán Tenorio, and Guayabo National Monument. These sites will be at the forefront of the National Parks Day festivities scheduled for August 24th. To address immediate infrastructural concerns in Manuel Antonio, an additional injection of 400 million colones will be provided by the Costa Rican Institute of Sports (INDER).
Importance of Well-Maintained Parks
As per the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT), pristine National Parks are the linchpin for luring global tourists and amplifying Costa Rica’s tourism appeal. ICT’s General Manager, Alberto López, emphasized, “Costa Rica’s choice to safeguard its natural reserves while promoting sustainable tourism has elevated our tourism offerings. Our agreement to funnel funds into National Parks recognizes their integral role in our tourism ecosystem.”
Challenges & Solutions Ahead
This financial announcement might be a relief for many, especially after years of concerns over the park entrance fee utilizations. With 2.4 million tourists gracing the parks in 2022, SINAC reported ticket revenues crossing 12 billion colones. Yet, fiscal regulations divert these revenues to the state’s coffers rather than park betterment. Hence, SINAC’s annual requests for budgetary allocations.
Conservationists are optimistic about these focused investments but emphasize the pressing need for sustainable financing mechanisms. Achieving a harmonious blend of tourist convenience and ecological preservation continues to be a paramount objective.
