TUI Care Foundation Expands Wildlife Conservation Project in Costa Rica
New phase of TUI Wildlife Costa Rica will protect 289 hectares of rainforest, support endangered species and engage local communities in conservation.
The TUI Care Foundation has launched the next phase of its TUI Wildlife Costa Rica project, expanding efforts to protect rainforest, endangered species and local communities.
The project focuses on the buffer area of Barbilla National Park, next to the Cabécar Indigenous territory of Bajo Chirripó. The initiative combines habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, community engagement and responsible tourism.
Costa Rica is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. However, deforestation, habitat fragmentation, poaching and land conversion continue to threaten its ecosystems. These pressures have also placed species such as the critically endangered Lemur Leaf Frog and Great Green Macaw at risk.
Expanding Rainforest Conservation
During its first phase, TUI Wildlife Costa Rica worked with the Work with Nature Foundation to conserve 275 hectares of rainforest.
The project planted thousands of native trees to restore degraded habitats. It also created 20 artificial breeding ponds for the critically endangered Lemur Leaf Frog.
In addition, the project installed specialised nesting boxes for the Great Green Macaw. These efforts contributed to increased sightings and activity in the reserve.
Camera traps and other monitoring systems also helped track wildlife. Meanwhile, regular ranger patrols helped prevent deforestation and poaching.
The project also engaged local communities through guided walks, school visits and environmental education programmes.
New Phase Creates a Biological Corridor
The second phase will expand conservation efforts across 289 hectares within the reserve.
The project will connect forest fragments between the Work with Nature Reserve and Barbilla National Park. Newly acquired land will strengthen the area as a biological corridor for wildlife.
Furthermore, conservation teams will continue planting native trees. These trees will provide food and shelter for species such as the Great Green Macaw.
The project will also establish an arboretum featuring 50 new native species. It aims to create one of the most biodiverse arboretums in Central America while supporting education and research.
Protecting Endangered Species
Conservation activities will focus on at least four endangered species: the Lemur Leaf Frog, Great Green Macaw, Gliding Tree Frog and Splendid Tree Frog.
Researchers will continue using camera traps and bioacoustic technology to monitor wildlife.
The project will also investigate endangered bat species. This research will improve understanding of the ecosystem and help develop targeted conservation measures.
Supporting Local Communities
Community participation remains central to the project.
The initiative will create employment and training opportunities for local residents. It will also support Indigenous-led activities and expand environmental education through guided tours and school programmes.
In addition, the project links conservation with responsible tourism. Visitors will have opportunities to learn about rainforest protection and participate in activities such as habitat restoration and biodiversity monitoring.
By connecting tourism with conservation and community development, TUI Wildlife Costa Rica aims to create long-term benefits for both people and nature.
Part of TUI Wildlife Programme
The Costa Rica initiative forms part of the TUI Care Foundation’s TUI Wildlife Programme, which supports wildlife and habitat conservation in tourism destinations around the world.
The wider programme includes projects in countries such as Rwanda, Cambodia, Namibia and Mexico.
Through its expanded Costa Rica project, the foundation aims to strengthen rainforest protection, improve wildlife monitoring and provide local communities with greater opportunities to benefit from sustainable tourism.
