Peninsula Papagayo Wins Dual Global Honors for Leading Sustainable Community Empowerment

Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica’s renowned 1,400-acre private resort and club community, has been awarded two top distinctions at the 2nd Annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards in Dubai — World’s Leading Sustainable Hotel or Resort Development and World’s Leading Sustainable Community Empowerment Programme.

A Benchmark for Sustainable Tourism
Chosen from over 900 entries globally, Peninsula Papagayo’s recognition reflects its dedication to redefining luxury through sustainability, inclusion, and environmental responsibility. Under the stewardship of Mohari Hospitality and Gencom since 2016, the destination has become a model of regenerative tourism and sustainable resort development.

Eco-Conscious Design and Innovation
The World’s Leading Sustainable Hotel or Resort Development award acknowledges the community’s long-term vision to preserve Costa Rica’s biodiversity. With less than 30% of the peninsula ever slated for development, projects such as Nekajui, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, and Bahías by Antoine Predock exemplify minimal-impact architecture, native landscaping, and resource-efficient design. Peninsula Papagayo also boasts ISO 50001-certified energy systems, AI-driven food waste management, and a 51% reduction in golf course water usage.

Empowering Communities Through Sustainability
The World’s Leading Sustainable Community Empowerment Programme award honors Creciendo Juntos (“Growing Together”), an initiative that trains families—over half led by women—in sustainable farming and entrepreneurship. The program has produced more than 250,000 kilograms of vegetables while improving food security and local livelihoods.

Commitment to Shared Prosperity
“These awards show what’s possible when purpose and progress align,” said Francesca Poddie, COO of Peninsula Papagayo. Sustainability Director Susana Vicente added, “True sustainability is measured by shared prosperity — and our communities are at the heart of it.”

Sustainability Vision and Global Impact
Alongside the launch of its Papagayo Legacy platform and 2024 Impact Report, Peninsula Papagayo continues to pioneer hands-on guest engagement in conservation, culture, and community. Its efforts set a global benchmark for responsible tourism, blending private investment with local stewardship to shape a sustainable future.