This national standard recognizes and distinguishes tourism businesses committed to environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and social responsibility across the country. With more than three decades of technical rigor, it has become a benchmark for sustainable practices and is internationally recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and the SICCS regional system.
With more than three decades of technical rigor, CST has become a benchmark for sustainable practices, recognized internationally by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and the SICCS regional system.
For us, CST is more than a seal; it is a living commitment to the planet, to people, and to the prosperity of the tourism sector. It transforms sustainability into a practical, measurable standard that enhances competitiveness while fostering inclusivity and community engagement.
On December 17, 2024, we proudly renewed our CST certification at the Elite Level, the highest distinction available. This achievement reflects our dedication to continuous improvement and responsible tourism management.
Through this certification, we actively:
Limit the environmental and social impacts of our operations.
Strengthen cultural, environmental, and economic initiatives.
Support the sustainable development of the destinations our clients experience.
By aligning with CST, we not only meet national and international sustainability standards but also contribute to Costa Rica’s vision of a tourism model that is resilient, inclusive, and transformative. For us, sustainability is not an obligation; it is the essence of every journey we design.
The Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children and Adolescents from Commercial Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism is a national initiative led by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT). Since its creation in 2003, it has become a cornerstone of responsible tourism, uniting businesses, communities, and institutions in the fight against one of the most serious violations of human rights.
At CAST, we embrace this Code of Conduct as a vital part of our sustainability and social responsibility strategy. We believe that tourism must never be a channel for exploitation, but rather a force for protection, dignity, and opportunity.
By promoting the Code of Conduct, we actively:
Raise awareness among our team, partners, and clients about the risks and realities of sexual exploitation of minors.
Train and empower our staff to identify, prevent, and report suspicious situations.
Encourage collective responsibility, reminding every traveler and stakeholder that silence perpetuates harm, while action protects lives.
Why it matters
Commercial sexual exploitation of children is not only a crime, it is a profound injustice that destroys futures and undermines the very essence of sustainable tourism. Every journey should be safe, inclusive, and respectful. By adhering to the Code of Conduct, we ensure that our operations contribute to a tourism model that protects the most vulnerable and strengthens trust in Costa Rica as a destination.
If you witness or suspect any case of exploitation, it is your duty to act. The ICT provides a clear Action Guide with steps to safely and responsibly report incidents.
This guide is available on the official program website:
