Learn About CST Certification
The Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) is your strategic partner to drive responsible tourism, differentiate your business, and access new market opportunities. It is a recognized and robust model with 30 years of experience.
CST measures sustainability within your operations. It evaluates four key areas: business management, social, economic, and cultural impact, environmental impact and a category-specific dimension based on your entity type.
Join the companies leading the transformation toward a competitive, sustainable, and purpose-driven tourism sector.
Benefits of CST
Sustainable Recognition
Public accreditation for excellence in the management of companies and organizations that actively work to minimize their operational impacts.
Preferential Rates
Discounts at trade fairs: 60% for the basic level and 100% for the elite level. Preferential rate with the National Forestry Financing Fund (FONAFIFO) for carbon credits ($6 per unit).
Free and Voluntary Support
A free, voluntary process open to tourism companies.
International Support
Compliance with Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC) and alignment with the Central American SICCS seal – Elite level.
Continuous Training
Free workshops on environmental and business-related topics.
Greater Competitiveness
Product differentiation, increased consumer confidence and strengthened presence in national and international campaigns.
Transparent Process
A clear and structured process for companies seeking certification.
Public and Media Visibility
Strengthens social, environmental and economic efforts, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.
Technical Support
Guidance provided by ICT from its headquarters and regional offices.
Priority to Participate in ICT Events
Opportunity to share and exchange insights on the CST Program with various stakeholders involved in sustainability.
Take the First Step
Participate in the CST Standard Training Workshop, offered monthly.
Become Certified
Learn the Step-by-Step Certification Process
Discover the organizations already certified and making a difference.
Be inspired by their actions and learn how you too can be part of sustainable tourism.
Strengthen Your Commitment Sign CST initiatives to reinforce your sustainability pledge.
Each signature is a step toward fair, inclusive, and responsible tourism. Join and be part of the change.
Testimonials. Experiences That Inspire
Learn from those who have completed the CST journey and discover the added value sustainability brings to their businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find useful information about the certification process:
1What is the CST Standard?
The CST Standard is a technical tool that assesses the level of sustainability in tourism organizations and institutions. It is structured into dimensions, criteria, and indicators, classified into mandatory questions, continuous improvement, and external impact, all aligned with the referenced characteristics of the new standard.
2How can I participate in the CST certification process?
Start your certification journey by joining our monthly CST Standard workshop. View the training calendar here.
3Why was the CST Standard updated?
The CST Standard was updated in La Gaceta No. 215 on November 15, 2024, to address the current needs of its management dynamics, the integration of new subsectors within the tourism industry, its international recognition, and alignment with the ISEAL Alliance Code of Good Practice. This Code promotes that standards should be reviewed and updated at least every five years to ensure they remain relevant and effective.
4When is the right time to access the CST platform?
To gain access to the CST platform, an access code must first be requested. Please note that at least 70% of the required supporting documentation and evidence should be prepared before uploading information to the platform.
Once this requirement has been met, please send an email to paola.rojas@ict.go.cr to request the access code.
5What does the new CST Standard offer?
The new standard aims to adapt the CST Program to emerging business models while strengthening and reorganizing its functional and administrative structure within the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT).
Likewise, it seeks to ensure that the program remains aligned with the latest developments in sustainable tourism, provides greater clarity throughout the certification process on the CST Platform, and delivers added value to the tourism sector through enhanced market positioning and differentiation.
Likewise, it seeks to ensure that the program remains aligned with the latest developments in sustainable tourism, provides greater clarity throughout the certification process on the CST Platform, and delivers added value to the tourism sector through enhanced market positioning and differentiation.
6What type of certification can I obtain?
The CST has two levels of recognition. A company that meets the CST Standard and completes the process will be granted a CST Certificate. This certificate can be awarded at two levels:
Basic CST: This corresponds to the minimum level and requires the applicant to comply with 100% of the mandatory criteria and indicators established in the CST Standard.
Elite CST: This represents the highest level and requires the applicant to demonstrate improvement and continuity in its management process by at least 50%, as well as an external impact of 70% in the criteria and indicators of the CST Standard.
7What is the CST Platform?
The CST Platform is a digital system designed to execute, plan, and manage the CST audit process, available to tourism organizations and applicant institutions in accordance with the new standard.
8How long is the certification valid?
The CST certification is valid for a period of three calendar years, starting from the date on which its granting is officially notified.
9Which tourism categories are eligible for CST certification?
The categories are:
- Accomodation
- Gastronomy
- Car Rental
- Institutions and Organizations
- Sustainable Theme Parks
- Protected Areas
- Tourist Land Transportation
- Tourist Water Transportation
- Tour Operator with Direct or Own Operation
- Tour Operator with Subcontracting
- Coastal Marine Tour Operator
- Venues
- Hot Springs
- Spa
10What should I do if my certification expires?
To reapply for CST certification once it has expired, the entity must complete the audit process again.
For additional questions, email us at: cst@ict.go.cr
