Ecotourism is defined as “responsible travel to natural places, which conserves the environment and sustains the well being of the local people.” Each of these three ecolodges in Nicaragua absolutely fit the bill:

 

Jicaro Island Ecolodge is located on a tiny, private islet of the Granada Islands in the gargantuan Lake Nicaragua. A 20-minute boat ride from the colonial town of Granada delivers guests to the secluded, yet very upscale eco-resort for an enchanting experience. Guest can leave hectic lives behind by lounging in huge hammocks on their private deck overlooking the lake, reconnect with themselves in daily yoga classes or enjoy a variety of massage and wellness treatments. Watch the chefs prepare fresh, healthy cuisine in an open kitchen or dine on a floating dock for a romantic treat.

The resort prides itself on minimal impact to the island. The nine private, two-story casitas are furnished with locally crafted Rainforest Alliance certified wood, organic cotton bathrobes, bamboo blended linens and biodegradable soaps and shampoos. Water is heated with solar panels and there is a strong reduce, reuse and recycle program in place. They also hire staff and purchase locally to support the local economy. Jicaro “walks the talk” in sustainability efforts and with many nature oriented activities nearby, it is a perfect hideaway for eco-conscious honeymooners and adventurers alike.

 

Hacienda & Ecolodge Morgan’s Rock is nestled into the hills on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua just north of the Cost Rica boarder. Only 15 divine private bungalows are perched high in the hills and accessed by a stunning 1,110-meter suspension bridge over a forested canyon. Each one has a king bed, queen sofa bed, an outdoor shower and original local art. Spectacular sunset views from the hanging bed on the private deck overlooking the huge crescent beach are included at no extra charge!

Covering 1,800 hectares, Morgan’s Rock is a unique agrotourism project that combines tree farming and reforestation as well as organic and traditional agriculture. They have planted 100,000 native hardwood trees that will never be cut and grow over 1.5 million trees for harvest in an effort to reduce further destruction of tropical forests. The animal farm produces eggs and cheese for the resort and guests can milk cows and pick eggs on the “Breakfast at the Farm” learning tour. Nature tours of the property’s ecosystems, mountain biking and seeing sea turtles nest or hatch on the beach give an appreciation for why it is important to protect and conserve nature’s resources. Morgan’s Rock is a wonderful destination for families, weddings and anyone who wants to enjoy nature in a low impact way.

 

Aqua Wellness Resort is a secluded tree-top resort on the Pacific Riviera coast just north of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. The luxurious villas are elevated off the ground to minimize impact on the forests and give guests an intimate experience of the rainforest. Each private villa has a bird’s eye view of the ocean from its private deck and is connected to the beach by lava stone pathways that wind through the tropical foliage.

Aqua’s “Pure Wellness in Nature” spa programs incorporate local natural products and techniques. An 1,100 square foot open-air yoga platform is a yogi’s dream. With stunning views of the ocean and beach, clean air and eco-friendly yoga mats and gear, it is a tranquil location to stretch, meditate and absorb the energy of the surroundings. Other on-site activities include hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and surfing in a relaxed “Nica” atmosphere. For nourishment of the body, gourmet organic cuisine is produced from the freshest local ingredients with contemporary style and flair. Aqua has a hip and holistic feel that is conducive to wellness, romance and reflection so it is perfect for a girl’s getaway, corporate retreat or weddings and honeymoons.

These three eco resorts prove that you don’t have to forfeit luxury to be an eco-responsible traveler. If you want to lighten the impact of your travel, but not give up exquisite accommodations, fine food and personal service, let Covington Travel arrange your next trip to one of these fabulous ecolodges. You will enjoy the natural beauty of Nicaragua, support the local communities and learn about the environment – and that is truly ecotourism.