Nayara Resorts offers 3 properties in Costa Rica within walking distance, so guests are free to traverse the several footbridges around the resort connecting the different properties. The Nayara Tented Camp is part of this eco-resort, located just 10 minutes from the town of La Fortuna de San Carlos, in the northern highlands of Costa Rica.
This family-friendly eco-lodge opened in December 2019 and includes 21 luxury tents scattered along a hillside with clear views of the nearby Volcano. Each tent sits on a furnished outdoor living area, and a plunge pool filled with water from the nearby hot springs. With conservation top of mind, Nayara planted over 1,000 Cecropia trees on the property, the sloth’s main food source, which has attracted at this time over 18 sloths to call this place home. Look in the treetops to spot these critters but know they can be hard to spot to the untrained eye, so don’t hesitate to ask a nature guide for help seeing one.
Their story
Nayara Resorts started twelve years ago with a vision to provide the best service, and go beyond luxury by blending sophisticated design with sustainability. The luxurious Tented Camp is the newest property, but has already become one of the most sustainable eco-lodges in Costa Rica. Sustainable tourism is the driving force, from the planting of thousands of trees to committing to a safe place for animals. Nayara works with Arenal National Parks reforestation efforts and provides a sanctuary for sloths and howler monkeys. Read more about them here.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Each spacious tent was built on stilts to maximize views for guests but, more importantly, to leave a minimal footprint on the forest floor. Due to the nature of a tent, the structures can be easily deconstructed, and sustainable building materials were used in the construction.
- The fabrics used are natural colors to blend seamlessly with the environment and are high quality, to ensure they withstand the rainforest environment for longevity. The colors and hues used in the bathroom tiles were inspired by the pattern on the Morpho butterfly wings, and interior color pallets were inspired by the stunning rainbow eucalyptus tree. The ox-wagon wheel was used as an inspiration for the style and designs carved into details throughout.
High level of energy efficiency
- Nayara Tented Camp was built to be sustainable and renewable. The Tents were placed with the intention of using the sun’s heating power and natural breezes to minimize the need for artificial heat and air conditioning. Light bulbs are all energy-conserving, and in bathrooms and restaurants, you will find handkerchiefs or fabric towels instead of paper towels.
- Since Costa Rica is one of the leading countries in renewable energy, on-grid electricity comes from more than 90% renewable energy sources.
Pioneer in waste management
- The importance of recycling and reusing materials is a core value to Nayara Tented Camp, and they are passionate about being a company that offers positive influence regarding green alternatives in the tourism industry.
- Paper is utilized to its maximum potential, double-sided, printing only essential documents, and using the back side of any paper for taking notes. Only when the paper is fully utilized, will it be intentionally recycled. Cardboard boxes are treated the same way, storing other materials that may be reused later.
- Organic waste is sorted and used as either an organic compost used for fertilizer or taken to a local pig farm by a staff member to feed the animals. There are 3 departments that aid in the process: separation, decontamination, and preparation for the recycling process.
- Metals and aluminum are kept to a minimum where possible, but common cans (from drinks or juices) are collected, cleaned, and sent to a recycling facility where they are sorted and crushed. At times, there may be larger scrap building materials made of metal, which Nayara has a contract to purchase to be reused.
- Nayara Resorts is strictly against using plastic straws, opting for bamboo.
- In place of styrofoam or polystyrene containers, they have opted for ones made of compostable materials. Bags are all either reusable shopping bags or recycled plastic bags, and containers in the kitchen are made of glass rather than plastic. They are working on implementing potable water stations for guests and staff to refill water bottles.
Fully organic and chemical-free operation
- Only eco-friendly products are used at Nayara. They work with local suppliers who also value the environment. Laundry soaps and other products are all biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- The same can be said about the gardening area, where all organic fertilizers are used. There is a small farmhouse on site, where guests can learn more about the importance of growing in an organic way. Sharing knowledge about sustainability, you will learn the importance of quality vs. quantity.
- The main food source for Nayara is Don Taly – a local farmer near the town of Zarcero. He is famous locally for his organic vegetables. He has been a partner in supplying the freshest food to Nayara since opening 12 years ago. The menu on site is catered to ensure everyone has options, including organic and vegan options.
Actively protects nature and community
- The mission for Nayara is to preserve and grow the tropical rainforest and promote a healthy habitat for sloths and other local wildlife to call home. Sloths spend much of their lives in the high canopies of trees, lounging and relaxing, safe from predators. The planting of thousands of trees proves the dedication of Nayara to provide this space for not only sloths, but also monkeys and more birds than ever before. The resort wanted to ensure the most memorable experience for guests, so they planted over two thousand heliconia trees, a favorite of the hummingbird.
- Nature walks are offered to guests on site who want to learn more about being green. You can ask questions and learn more about how to reduce your carbon footprint and educate the younger generation.
- The local community is a key part of the experience at Nayara. Most employees live in the neighboring town of La Fortuna de San Carlos. The resort provides free transportation, sustainable tourism education, and health services.
- The resort also provides funds to provide education for employees’ children, volunteer time, and financial support for Hogarcito de Ninos, a local orphanage.
Most Popular Activities near Nayara Tented Camp
- Nature walks to observe wildlife, such as famous Costa Rican birds, monkeys, and sloths.
- A variety of spa treatments.
- Hot springs thermal pools.
- Cooking classes.
- Go zip-lining or on canopy tours nearby.
- Visit one of the Costa Rican waterfalls.
READ ON – 36 Eco-friendly Things to Do in Costa Rica (From A to Z)
Best time to visit Nayara Tented Camp
- The humidity in Costa Rica is high all year around.
- To avoid rainy season, plan your visit outside May-June and September-October.
- If you want to enjoy this place the sunniest it can be, visit in March or December.
- Smaller showers or thunderstorms can be expected all year around, so please be prepared.
READ ON – Best Time To Visit Costa Rica (Factual Data, Pros & Cons, What to Expect)