The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on tourism and eco-tourism across the globe, and unfortunately, the Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge is no exception. It has been over 7 months now since the Lagarto Eco-lodge has had international guests. This has been, and continues to be, a very challenging time for the lodge, its staff, and the surrounding community. We are making every effort to maintain our staff, but we have been forced to reduce salaries during these difficult times to make ends meet. The prolonged halt in international travel has demonstrated just how fundamental tourism is in sustaining the local economy and for conservation. With tourism at a standstill, there is no excess capital for conservation projects. With the local community struggling, we have also seen a re-emergence of poaching in the Boca Tapada area. We are concerned that the livelihood of the people of our community and the sustainability of the habitat and wildlife that we’ve worked so hard to protect over the years are in great jeopardy the longer the global pandemic and limited tourism persists.
Although many international travel restrictions are lifting in Costa Rica as of November 1st, we are still uncertain what the future will bring and how soon our international guests will feel comfortable traveling once again in large numbers. We understand that the safety and comfort of our guests are of paramount importance. Though we remain hopeful that we will all overcome this pandemic and travel will normalize in the not too distant future.
We know times are tough for everyone, but if you have the ability, we would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide to the Lagarto Eco-Lodge and our community. Please find below 4 ways in which you can help. We appreciate your participation and support during these challenging times. We look forward to once again welcoming you back to the Lagarto Eco-Lodge and sharing our wonderful rainforest with you.
-Kurt Schmack, Owner Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1) ENTER THE LAGUNA DEL LAGARTO NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY TOURNAMENT
The Lagarto Eco-Lodge in conjunction with Images for Conservation Fund (a non-profit organization based in Edinburg, Texas) has developed this event with the aim of offering a fun and unique photo competition for our guests along with a conservation initiative. We have designated that conservation proceeds from the Tournament will now go to assist the Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge staff to help with the disruptions caused by the global pandemic. These are unprecedented times for both eco-lodges and their employees throughout Costa Rica (and the rest of the world). Your participation in the Tournament will directly help those impacted by the effects of the global pandemic in the Boca Tapada community.
Due to the difficulties in travel and our desire to increase participation during the global pandemic, you can now submit images taken ANY TIME at the Lagarto Eco-Lodge. This means you can submit images from any past visit to the Lagarto Eco-Lodge or any future visit through the May 31, 2021 deadline. (However, please do not submit images that have won prizes in any previous Laguna del Lagarto Nature Photography Tournaments.)
To learn more, visit: http://imagesforconservation.org/…/3rd-annual-laguna-del-l…/
2) GENERAL DONATION
If you’d like to make a general donation that will go directly to help the Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge staff please visit: https://imagesforconservation.org/product/donate/ and be sure to note Lagarto Eco-Lodge Staff Donation.
3) PRE-PAY YOUR FUTURE TRIP
Another way to help the immediate needs of the Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge is to pre-pay your future holiday by sending in a deposit now that will be good for future travel to the Lagarto Eco-lodge. For more information, on the Pre-Pay Program, contact Kurt Schmack at [email protected].
4) COME VISIT US!
There is no better way to support the lodge, its staff, and the rainforest, than coming to visit and experience the wonders firsthand.
To make a reservation visit: Laguna del Lagarto Eco-Lodge
Once again, we thank you for your participation and support.
