Area de Conservación Guanacaste
Country
Costa Rica
Inscribed in
1999
Criteria
(ix)
(x)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "significant concern" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
The Area de Conservación Guanacaste (inscribed in 1999), was extended with the addition of a 15,000 ha private property, St Elena. It contains important natural habitats for the conservation of biological diversity, including the best dry forest habitats from Central America to northern Mexico and key habitats for endangered or rare plant and animal species. The site demonstrates significant ecological processes in both its terrestrial and marine-coastal environments. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Significant concern
Current state and trend of VALUES
High Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Complex ecological processes and interactions at all levels of biodiversity
Criterion
(ix)
A striking feature of Area de Conservación Guanacaste is the wealth of ecosystem and habitat diversity, all connected through an uninterrupted gradient from the Pacific Ocean across the highest peaks to the lowlands on the Caribbean side. The many landscape and forest types include mangrove, lowland rainforest, premontane and montane humid forest, cloud forest, as well as oak forest and savannah with evergreen gallery forest along the many water courses. Along the transect, the World Heritage site allows migration, genetic exchange and complex ecological processes and interactions at all levels of biodiversity, including between land and sea. The vast dry forest is a rare feature of enormous conservation value, as most dry forests elsewhere in the region have become small fragmented remnants. Conservation has allowed the natural restoration of previously degraded forest ecosystems, currently serving again as a safe haven for the many species depending on this threatened ecosystem. Major nutrient-rich cold upwelling currents offshore result in a high marine productivity and are the foundation of a diverse coastal-marine ecosystem containing important coral reefs, algae beds, estuaries, mangroves, sandy and cobble beaches, shore dunes and wetlands (World Heritage Committee, 2013).
Globally important site for conservation of the tropical biodiversity
Criterion
(x)
The Site is globally important for in situ conservation of the tropical biological diversity as it constitutes the only example in the Neotropics of a climatic and altitudinal transect, continuous and well protected, through a series of marine and terrestrial ecosystems that include dry, cloud and rain forests. In addition it allows the restoration and conservation of the largest, best preserved and most representative sample of species characteristic of the Neotropical dry forest, a highly vulnerable and currently endangered ecosystem. The variations in elevation, soils, and climatic conditions favour the existence of a high diversity of habitats with approximately 335,000 terrestrial species, which represent 67% of the species described for Costa Rica and an estimated 2.6% of the world biodiversity, in an area of only 147,000 ha. This outstanding variety of coastal-marine and terrestrial species, both residents and migratory, include some rare, endemic or endangered species. Thus, in the site more than 7,000 species of plants coexist, among which some of the best-conserved Central American populations of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), royal guayacan (Guaiacum sanctum), and several agave and cactus species. Likewise, there is a remarkable diversity of 942 vertebrate species. Invertebrate diversity is extraordinary, with an estimated 20,000 species of beetles, 13,000 species of ants, bees and wasps, and 8,000 species of butterflies and moths (World Heritage Committee, 2013).
Important habitat of several endangered mammal species
Criterion
(x)
Some notable mammal species include the endangered Baird's Tapir (Tapirus bairdii), Jaguar (Panthera onca), Margay (Leopardus wiedii), Jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) and Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), at least 40 species of bats (World Heritage Committee, 2013), as well as numerous primate species, such as the endangered Geoffroy's spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi).
Diversity of bird species
Criterion
(x)
Among some 500 bird species are the endangered Mangrove Hummingbird (Amazilia boucardi) and Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), and the vulnerable Military Macaw (Ara militaris) (World Heritage Committee, 2013).
Important habitat of several reptile species and a massive breeding population of the olive Ridley turtle
Criterion
(x)
Charismatic and representative reptiles include the vulnerable American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) and the spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus). Several species of sea turtles breed and nest in the World Heritage site, such as the critically endangered leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) and a massive breeding population of the vulnerable olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) (World Heritage Committee, 2013).
Area of high marine productivity and high diversity of coastal-marine ecosystems
Criterion
(ix)
Major nutrient-rich cold upwelling currents offshore result in a high marine productivity and are the foundation of a diverse coastal-marine ecosystem containing important coral reefs, algal beds, estuaries, mangroves, sandy and cobble beaches, shore dunes and wetlands. The largely intact coastal-marine interface is remarkable, particularly in a region where coasts have disproportionally suffered from human pressure (World Heritage Commitee, 2013).
Assessment information
The ecosystems in the property are particularly sensitive to climate change, but the State Party is implementing efforts to increase its resilience. Climate change will have further significant impacts on both the marine part of the site, with increasing impacts on its coral ecosystems, and its terrestrial areas, which are already vulnerable to fires.
Wildfires continue to pose a threat to the property, with a significant increase in the number of fires and the hectares affected from 2023 to 2024.
Other threats include illegal resource extraction (illegal hunting, fishing and capture of some species for pet trade), illegal tourism access, and pressures from the surrounding agricultural areas, including pollution by agrochemicals. However, these threats appear to be decreasing in recent years.
Wildfires continue to pose a threat to the property, with a significant increase in the number of fires and the hectares affected from 2023 to 2024.
Other threats include illegal resource extraction (illegal hunting, fishing and capture of some species for pet trade), illegal tourism access, and pressures from the surrounding agricultural areas, including pollution by agrochemicals. However, these threats appear to be decreasing in recent years.
Fishing, Harvesting & Controlling Aquatic Species
(Overfishing of coastal waters)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Commercial fishing for shrimp in the areas surrounding the marine component of the World Heritage site and artisanal fishing for snappers and crabs combine to alter the very rich marine ecosystems (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). Fishing of reef fish is also occurring at Area de Conservación Guanacaste (Cortés et al., 2010). According to the general management plan, overfishing is a “very high threat” due to a “lack of management” (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Illegal fishing also occurs within the site (UNESCO, 2017), however according to the latest periodic report here are only occasional incidents of illegal fishing and their trend is downward (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Fire & Fire Management
(Fires)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The area is vulnerable to fires caused by a number of factors, including farming and ranching in the surrounding areas, as well as illegal hunting within the World Heritage site. The important dry forests are particularly vulnerable (UNESCO, 2017), and fires there are considered a very high threat (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). In 2023 and 2024, 66 wildfires affected the property, resulting in 1692 hectares burned within the site. More intense fires have also been reported in the latest periodic report, associated with climate change and increasing fuel load (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Roads, Trails & Railroads, Utility & Service Lines
(Inter-American Highway)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
The Inter-American Highway passes through the site at two points, including a 13-km long section leading to wildlife mortality on
internal and external roads to the heritage site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Several culverts are used as unintended wildlife passages, but the current design prevents some species from using them. Ongoing studies confirm that vegetation management along the highway influences the intensity and types of road mortality (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Research and mitigation measures to reduce wildlife roadkill impacts are being implemented and the local government is promoting the "living green tunnel" (State Party of Costa Rica, 2024). However, it is of concern that options to mitigate road impacts were limited given that the Inter-American Highway bisects part of the property, reportedly due to corruption and impacts of the financial crisis. The financial crisis also impeded further development of the National Ecological Route 918 and there is no information on National Road 4 as an alternative route to bypass the property. The local government commitment to the Green and Living Tunnel is therefore important as is the continued monitoring and mitigation of all impacts from roads (UNESCO, 2023).
internal and external roads to the heritage site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Several culverts are used as unintended wildlife passages, but the current design prevents some species from using them. Ongoing studies confirm that vegetation management along the highway influences the intensity and types of road mortality (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Research and mitigation measures to reduce wildlife roadkill impacts are being implemented and the local government is promoting the "living green tunnel" (State Party of Costa Rica, 2024). However, it is of concern that options to mitigate road impacts were limited given that the Inter-American Highway bisects part of the property, reportedly due to corruption and impacts of the financial crisis. The financial crisis also impeded further development of the National Ecological Route 918 and there is no information on National Road 4 as an alternative route to bypass the property. The local government commitment to the Green and Living Tunnel is therefore important as is the continued monitoring and mitigation of all impacts from roads (UNESCO, 2023).
Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Climate change)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
This part of the country (North Pacific) has the highest rise in temperatures, and while rains are decreasing, extreme weather events such as tropical storms have affected the mangroves due to sedimentation. Different scenarios project an increase in the speed of currents in the sea and a reduction in the average salinity (State Party of Costa Rica, 2024 and 2023).
On-going climate change results in a warmer and drier climate and has increased fire potential, not only in the dry forest, but also increasingly in moist forests. Habitat shifts to higher elevations are now being detected in terrestrial areas. Altitudinal migration from the dry forest to the mountains of some species has been noted over the last 15 years due to effects of climate change (ACG, 2019). Other effects on the terrestrial environments include droughts, increased risks of fires and decreasing water availability. Coral reefs in the Pacific areas of Costa Rica have been significantly affected in the last two decades due to El Niño (Cortés et al., 2010). Coral bleaching has been observed in the coral reefs of the site in recent years and work is ongoing to identify corals which have been most resilient (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2017). Sea turtles in North Pacific Costa Rica are also highly affected by El Niño events and threatened by climate change due to the negative effect of high temperatures and low precipitation on hatching success and emergence of hatchlings from the nest (Santidrián Tomillo et al. 2012, 2020). Climate change projections have showed that sea turtle populations will be further threatened in this area due to climate change. The impacts of climate change in the region have a direct impact on elements such as increased temperature, radiation and more light in fragile sites of the site (cloud forest). Less precipitation affects the lower recharge of underground aquifers. Red tides (micro organisms) continue to occur in the region, although at a lower
frequency than in past years (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
On-going climate change results in a warmer and drier climate and has increased fire potential, not only in the dry forest, but also increasingly in moist forests. Habitat shifts to higher elevations are now being detected in terrestrial areas. Altitudinal migration from the dry forest to the mountains of some species has been noted over the last 15 years due to effects of climate change (ACG, 2019). Other effects on the terrestrial environments include droughts, increased risks of fires and decreasing water availability. Coral reefs in the Pacific areas of Costa Rica have been significantly affected in the last two decades due to El Niño (Cortés et al., 2010). Coral bleaching has been observed in the coral reefs of the site in recent years and work is ongoing to identify corals which have been most resilient (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2017). Sea turtles in North Pacific Costa Rica are also highly affected by El Niño events and threatened by climate change due to the negative effect of high temperatures and low precipitation on hatching success and emergence of hatchlings from the nest (Santidrián Tomillo et al. 2012, 2020). Climate change projections have showed that sea turtle populations will be further threatened in this area due to climate change. The impacts of climate change in the region have a direct impact on elements such as increased temperature, radiation and more light in fragile sites of the site (cloud forest). Less precipitation affects the lower recharge of underground aquifers. Red tides (micro organisms) continue to occur in the region, although at a lower
frequency than in past years (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Hunting, Collecting & Controlling Terrestrial Animals
(Illegal hunting)
Select targeted species from taxonomy
Odocoileus virginianus
Other targeted species names
Parrots, including Yellow-naped Amazon (Amazona auropalliata); wild pig (Tayassu pecari ); pavón (Crax rubra)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Illegal hunting has been reported to occur in the site, including for commercial and recreational purposes (UNESCO, 2017). While no impacts of these activities on the populations of target species have been estimated, it can have potentially significant negative impacts. Despite a strict legal framework, poaching and wildlife trade are recognized as high threats in the general management plan. Several of ACG’s parrot species are vulnerable to poaching for the national and international pet trade, the best-known example being the endangered Yellow-naped Amazon (Amazona auropalliata) (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). However, according to the most recent periodic report, occurrences of illegal hunting are decreasing (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Hunting, Collecting & Controlling Terrestrial Animals
(Illegal collection of sea turtle eggs)
Other targeted species names
Lepidochelys olivacea
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Illegal collection of sea turtle eggs for human consumption and also assumed medicinal purposes has been reported in the past (UNESCO, 2017). This threat was particularly worrying given the reported declines in the mass nestings (arribadas) of the Olive Ridley turtle at Playa Nancite within the site (UNESCO, 2017) and a 90% reduction in the number of nesting females from 1971 to 2007. However, there are no in-depth explanations for the declines. The 2018 Reactive Monitoring Mission reports that the declines are not a function of local management shortcomings (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Illegal harvest of eggs is common in the "Agropaisaje" of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, targeting eggs of all species of sea turtles that nest there. Research has documented the recovery of the olive ridley turtle population at Playa Nancite and the increase in hatchling success (Fonseca, et al 2019-2020) and the most recent periodic report does not indicate that illegal egg collection is a significant threat to the site's OUV (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Annual & Perennial Non-Timber Crops
(Pressures from the surrounding agricultural landscape)
Outside site
Agricultural areas outside the World Heritage site are affecting it in a number of ways, including through pollution by agrochemicals (State Party of Costa Rica, 2019). On the margins of the site there are forest plantations and agrosilvopastoral systems. The use of the land in general has remained stable and consistent with the crops that have been traditional in the region (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Recreational Activities
(Illegal tourism access)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Currently, illegal access to unauthorized areas within the Heritage site has increased, due to organized tourism groups (tour operators) who profit from "exclusive" destinations and promote themselves through social networks. There is strong pressure from local organizations, businesses and others to open new sites to tourist visitation. Posting photos from unauthorized sites on social media creates increased pressure from illegal tourism (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). The extent and impact of the threat is currently no known.
Invasive / Other Problematic Species, Genes & Pathogens, Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive species)
Invasive/problematic species
Hyparrhenia rufa
Other invasive species names
Caulerpa sertularioides
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
In terrestrial habitats, introduced grasses (eg. Hyparrhenia rufa) have been declining as the site's natural forest restoration increases. In the marine environment, the species Caulerpa sertularioides is the main threat detected (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). More scientific information is needed to comprehensively assess the threat level.
Water-borne & other effluent Pollution, Garbage & Solid Waste, Air-borne Pollutants
(Various types of pollution)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
The site has a management plan for internal waste produced by administrators and visitors. Training and sensitization activities have been carried out in this regard. The impact from light pollution and air pollution at the boundaries has remained stable as practices of sugarcane harvesting have continued to improve. The issue of plastic garbage (microplastics) carried by marine currents is present in the coastal marine areas and beyond site manager control (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Further information on pollution levels and impacts on key attributes is required to more accurately assess the threat level.
Renewable energy generation facilities continue to generate pressure on the property. While potential impacts of the geothermal energy project close to the boundaries of the site at the Rincón de la Vieja sector have been assessed by the State Party as low, further consideration should be given to potential indirect and cumulative impacts of geothermal facilities and wind and solar farms. The State Party's announcement of a renewable energy facility (solar) within the property raises serious concerns, specially since the SEA has not been conducted.
Renewable Energy
(Geothermal energy)
Outside site
There are two geothermal projects operating in the inmediate vicinity of the property. Eventhough an EIA according to national legislation was developed, it did not take into account the impacts on the OUV of the property. This has lead the WH Committee to adopt several decisions requiring to conduct a SEA before any new renewable energy facilities are approved (WH Committee, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023).
Roads, Trails & Railroads, Shipping Lanes
(Interoceanic Dry Canal (Canal Seco))
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
The State Party is analyzing a new interoceanic dry canal initiative that includes two seaports, a six-lane highway, and a four-track railway. Given that the infrastructure would need to go through areas in close proximity of the site or even through it due to its geographic location, potential impacts on the site would be extremely high. It remains however unclear if any of this infrastructure would overlap with the property.
Renewable Energy
(Wind Energy)
Outside site
Two wind parks in the immediate vicinity of the site were constructed without any Environmental Impact Assessments of potential impacts on the Outstanding Universal Value of Area de Conservación Guanacaste, and without being communicated to UNESCO at the proposal stage. However, both projects complied with the specific national legislation for this type of project. Several new projects are being considered (State Party of Costa Rica, 2024).
Renewable Energy
(Solar energy facilities)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
The State Party announced plans to enhance its renewable energy matrix through wind and solar projects, including expansions and new constructions. One project is proposed within the property, in the Horizontes Experimental Forest Station (EEFH) sector. Property authorities have raised the need for a SEA and an EIA in line with the Guidelines and tools for impact assessment in the context of World Heritage before project approval (State Party of Costa Rica, 2024)
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
Decades of work with local communities, hiring of local workers, inclusion of local people on the Area’s Management Committee, and long-term environmental education efforts, have resulted in relatively good relationships with most local people (UNEP-WCMC, 2011; IUCN Consultation, 2010). However, despite these efforts, concerns remain and occurrences of illegal hunting, fishing and fires indicate potential conflicts with the surrounding communities. Additional efforts are also required to work more closely with the surrounding ranches in order to prevent any potential human-wildlife conflicts. Working more closely with local communities, building support and developing cooperation and partnerships would also help to some extend mitigate the scarce resource available for the management of the World Heritage site and even reduce some threats (IUCN Consultation, 2017). Local (COLAC) and regional (CORAC) councils could and should be more dynamic, in the opinion of many (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). In recent years, the World Heritage site has made efforts to carry out joint processes and projects with the local communities (IUCN Consultation, 2024). The property's authorities have established alliances with NGOs, academia and local communities to better preserve the site. The conservation area has board with representatives from various sectors, local government and public institutions.
Legal framework
The legal framework is based on comprehensive national legislation from the mid-1990s, including the Environmental, National Park, Forest and Biodiversity laws. The property lacks a formal buffer zone to better preserve its OUV, however the management authority is currently working on a proposal to define a buffer zone to be presented to the Committee (State Party Costa Rica, 2024)
Governance arrangements
The property is State owned, except for part of the mountain corridor Pitilla-Orosi-Cacao, owned on nomination by the parastatal NGO Fundación de Parques Nacionales (FPN). Small peripheral areas are periodically bought and added to the site. Conservation land has been acquired and added to the protected block through the NGO partner Guanacaste dry Forest Conservation Fund (GDFCF). The ACG model involves governance between State and NGO lands.
Administered by Technical, Local and Regional Committees and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) of the Ministry of Environment & Energy (MINAE). The site managers regularly publicly communicate decisions and relevant information about the property and its threats (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). Responsibilities and functions of the various committees are laid out in different decrees.
Administered by Technical, Local and Regional Committees and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) of the Ministry of Environment & Energy (MINAE). The site managers regularly publicly communicate decisions and relevant information about the property and its threats (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). Responsibilities and functions of the various committees are laid out in different decrees.
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
All of Costa Rica is legally divided into conservation areas, with the Guanacaste Conservation Area among them. But as of 2006, no planning system was in place at the regional level, and overall strategic plans at the national level were heavily criticized (Bermudez Acuña, 2006). While the administrative governance approach and structure is widely considered exemplary from a conceptual perspective, implementation gaps are noted, due in part of funding limitations (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). The legal framework does not consider specific conditions of the World Heritage Convention into planning systems, such as the need to conduct EIA or SEA for this type of sites. However, in recent years, intra- and inter-institutional regional coordination has been strengthened according to the State Party (State party of Costa Rica, 2023). There are ongoing efforts to develop the National System of Conservation Areas to create effective wider protection of the property, and to consolidate the integration of conservation considerations into the wider landscape and seascape to ensure effective buffering of impacts on the World Heritage property (UNESCO, 2021).
Boundaries
The site consists of different sectors and includes both marine and terrestrial areas which contributes to its high diversity of habitats and the conservation of the uninterrupted gradient from the Pacific Ocean across the highest peaks to the lowlands on the Caribbean side (World Heritage Committee, 2013). The boundary of the World Heritage site and the national management area of the same name do not coincide exactly. A Minor Boundary Modification is recommended, possibly to include the recently designated Bahia Santa Elena Marine Management Area (UNESCO, 2019). The site does not have a buffer zone, however the management authority is currently working on a proposal to define a buffer zone to be presented to the Committee (State Party Costa Rica, 2024)
Overlapping international designations
Respingue Lagoon and Potrero Grande Mangrove, both located in the property, are also Ramsar sites. No information regarding the effectiveness of management of these overlapping designations was found.
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
The Committee has reiterated in multiple occasions (e.g. 44COM 7B.196, 45COM 7B.65) requests to better preserve the OUV, some of which have not been implemented. Specifically regarding the development of an SEA, the submission of a minor boundary modification to expand the marine and terrestrial parts of the property, the submission of a proposal for the establishment of a buffer zone and the improvement of National Road 4 as an alternative route remain outstanding.
Climate action
Efforts to improve the property’s resilience to climate change continue, including biodiversity management policies, addressing marine sector impacts, and implementing a mangrove restoration project. The site has a climate change plan based on a technical diagnosis of the impacts of climate change on the property. The action plan is aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change on ecosystem services: water, pollination, tourism, research and education (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). The effectiveness of its implementation is unclear.
Management plan and overall management system
The protected areas encompassed by the World Heritage site have up to date management plans. A good management system is in place with a new Integrated Management Plan (IMP) elaborated in 2014 (State Party of Costa Rica, 2016). Oversight and participation by local communities is foreseen through technical, local, as well as regional councils. The integrated management has the dual long-term objective of conservation, restoration, and bio-development. More specifically, management objectives include incorporation of adjacent areas of conservation interest, payment for environmental services schemes; ecological research and outreach programs (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Currently the ACG is formalizing a new Management Plan (2024-2034), based on the open standards approach to biodiversity conservation (IUCN Consultation, 2024).
Law enforcement
Enforcement presents many challenges, including in the marine and coastal parts of the World Heritage site. Illegal hunting and accidental and intentional fires still occur (UNESCO, 2017). The capacity to ensure effective law enforcement is limited by the lack of human and financial resources. Anecdotally, the management presence and level of law enforcement is considered less intense in the mountains than in the dry forest, and is least in the marine areas of the site (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018).
Sustainable finance
The Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund (Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund, 2019) invests about USD 1,000,000 annually in supporting 26% of the 150 ACG regional staff members (IUCN Consultation, 2013). However, the site is not sustainable financially without this external funding (IUCN Consultation, 2017). A number of Committee's requests have not been implemented due to financial constrains, generated by the country's fiscal situation. Despite the diverse funding structure, additional and sustainable funding schemes are needed to enhance the operational management capacity in the face of mounting challenges (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). There is room for further developing more systematic and strategic Payment for Ecological Services schemes (Chapman, et al., 2020).
The site generates some resources associated with fees (entry, filming, provision of non-essential services (store, guidance), but all income is deposited in the State's single fund. Part of this income is returned in the general budgets of the National Government. Funds from the central government, trust resources (National Parks Foundation) and international resources captured by the NGO Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund, are the three main sources of funding for the site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Attempts are being made to improve the implementation of non-essential services on site land, as an option. Likewise, at the national level, work has been done to obtain REED + resources. Through the NGOs FPN and GDFCF, site management is actively looking for projects, allies and other mechanisms (corporate social responsibility, accreditation for carbon) to diversify income(State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Negotiations with potential partners are currently being implemented through the Global Conservation Standard mechanism (IUCN Consultation, 2024). Potential tourism projects at the Horizontes Station are considered for additional funds for conservation.
The site generates some resources associated with fees (entry, filming, provision of non-essential services (store, guidance), but all income is deposited in the State's single fund. Part of this income is returned in the general budgets of the National Government. Funds from the central government, trust resources (National Parks Foundation) and international resources captured by the NGO Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund, are the three main sources of funding for the site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Attempts are being made to improve the implementation of non-essential services on site land, as an option. Likewise, at the national level, work has been done to obtain REED + resources. Through the NGOs FPN and GDFCF, site management is actively looking for projects, allies and other mechanisms (corporate social responsibility, accreditation for carbon) to diversify income(State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Negotiations with potential partners are currently being implemented through the Global Conservation Standard mechanism (IUCN Consultation, 2024). Potential tourism projects at the Horizontes Station are considered for additional funds for conservation.
Staff capacity, training and development
The National System of Conservation Areas has insufficient personnel in general, which affects this specific property as well. Fiscal situation of the country limits the possibility of hiring new personnel. Lack of human resources has been reported as a significant constraint (UNESCO, 2017; State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Moreover, the limited personnel has to devote a significant amount of time and effort to tourism management and the capacity and expertise for wildlife monitoring and management is limited (IUCN Consultation, 2017). The site has a staff of ~150 resident Costa Ricans (Janzen & Hallwachs, 2020). The need for generational turnover is becoming increasingly evident, due to the retirement of specialized staff members, with a lot of experience in the ACG model (IUCN Consultation, 2024; State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Education and interpretation programmes
On-going education and interpretation programs for local communities and schools have been part of the management programs; including considerable investment in communication and environmental education (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). The Biological Education Program reaches the annual participation of more than 1600 students per year belonging to 31 educational centers located in the periphery of the World Heritage Site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2018). The site has a good platform for formal education and information, communication and disclosure of the information generated on the property and its associated values through the Biological Education Program, Ecotourism Program, Marine Awareness, Fire Brigades, volunteers, and other processes (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). However, recent budget cuts have led to the reduction of study tours and the incorporation of schools (IUCN Consultation, 2024).
Tourism and visitation management
Regulations are in place to limit the amount of tourist allowed in small zones of the protected areas encompassed by the property, which take into account the ecosystems' carrying capacity. A visitor center in Santa Rosa National Park provides information to visitors on restoration of the dry forest ecosystem, biodiversity in general, available activities, and the historic significance of the Casona historic site (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). A new visitor center in the Rincón de la Vieja National Park receives an important visitation (120,000 visitors) (IUCN Consultation, 2024) and facilitates the enjoyment and recognition of the humid forests.
While there are basic facilities in areas destined for ecotourism (Pailas, Santa Rosa), in others it is necessary to improve such facilities substantially (Naranjo, Murciélago, Junquillal) (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Furthermore, although there are tourism plans that contemplate the management and development of ecotourism in the property, there are deficiencies in implementation due to the lack of human and financial resources. In recent years, illegal tourism has become particularly prevalent in the volcanic area (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
While there are basic facilities in areas destined for ecotourism (Pailas, Santa Rosa), in others it is necessary to improve such facilities substantially (Naranjo, Murciélago, Junquillal) (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023).
Furthermore, although there are tourism plans that contemplate the management and development of ecotourism in the property, there are deficiencies in implementation due to the lack of human and financial resources. In recent years, illegal tourism has become particularly prevalent in the volcanic area (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Sustainable use
The major uses permitted in the site are tourism, education and research, and all are carried out on a sustainable basis (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). The site seeks to demonstrate conservation through "biodevelopment, that is, that biodiversity and ecosystems are important producers of goods and services" (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2020; Janzen and Hallwachs, 2020; SINAC, 2020). One potential use considered for this site is associated with the generation of sustainable energy projects (solar) (IUCN Consultation, 2024). This will require careful consideration to ensure that the solar energy production does not affect negatively the OUV of the site.
Monitoring
Monitoring of the social environment, threats and other factors is carried out but not in an organized and systematic way. In the ecological field, the site defined in 2021 an Ecological Integrity Monitoring Plan including indicators for: forest, birds, aquatic insects, bats, small mammals. Since 2015, monitoring has been applied in the marine area with indicators for coral formations, marine mammals and turtle nesting beaches (State Party of Costa Rica, 2023). Monitoring of the Kemp's ridley sea turtle on Nancite Beach and the green sea turtle on San José Island continues (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Given the overall lack of financial and human resources (UNESCO, 2017), the large territory of the site and the diversity of its habitats and species, the capacity of site management to undertake comprehensive monitoring of key species and habitats is most likely limited. However, the World Heritage site has supported research and monitoring by third parties (universities, researchers), and a good information base is available for some species (monkeys, turtles, jaguars, yellow-naped parrots, forest plots) and habitats (IUCN Consultation, 2020). Monitoring of biodiversity in the area of geothermal projects at the boundary has been initiated (State Party of Costa Rica, 2018). The State has been promoting the National Ecological Monitoring Program (PRONAMEC) and protocols have recently been made official to be implemented (according to capacities) throughout the conservation system (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Given the overall lack of financial and human resources (UNESCO, 2017), the large territory of the site and the diversity of its habitats and species, the capacity of site management to undertake comprehensive monitoring of key species and habitats is most likely limited. However, the World Heritage site has supported research and monitoring by third parties (universities, researchers), and a good information base is available for some species (monkeys, turtles, jaguars, yellow-naped parrots, forest plots) and habitats (IUCN Consultation, 2020). Monitoring of biodiversity in the area of geothermal projects at the boundary has been initiated (State Party of Costa Rica, 2018). The State has been promoting the National Ecological Monitoring Program (PRONAMEC) and protocols have recently been made official to be implemented (according to capacities) throughout the conservation system (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Research
The site has one of the most successful research programmes of the country, generating data and useful information for decision making. There are 5 main research stations and other smaller research facilities distributed throughout the site, and about 100 new scientific papers are published every year. Research programs include forest ecology, fauna, savanna succession, effects of fire, and the behaviour and ecology of vertebrate fauna, notably the olive Ridley turtle (UNEP-WCMC, 2011).
The results of investigations are shared with the school population through the biological education program, websites and social networks, presentations and formal talks before organized groups (universities, regional council). The results are published in national and international scientific journals and are available to different users. Articles are shared in the national database Binabitrop.
The results of investigations are shared with the school population through the biological education program, websites and social networks, presentations and formal talks before organized groups (universities, regional council). The results are published in national and international scientific journals and are available to different users. Articles are shared in the national database Binabitrop.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
Development of geothermal and wind energy facilities up to the very boundary of the World Heritage site have not included assessments of potential and cumulative impacts on its Outstanding Universal Value (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018) and concerns remain about possible cumulative impacts of these different energy projects (UNESCO, 2019). Personnel and financial constrains continue to affect the management of the property. The site's authorities are in constant communication with other public institutions and developers to enforce the Convention.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
Lack of human and financial resources represent the main constraint to an effective management inside of the property.
Even though the Area de Conservación Guanacaste is one of the most iconic and well-known protected areas in Costa Rica, and while some effective management aspects are in place, the site faces several challenges. The underlying cause is the lack of financial and human resources, which hinders effective implementation of the management programmes and effective law enforcement in the face of numerous threats. The lack of new staff, in particular, affects the continuity of a diverse and innovative site-based model. The experience and knowledge accumulated over decades are not easily replaced. Although the authorities of the site make efforts to enforce the World Heritage Convention, there seems to be a contradictory vision of national authorities, specifically regarding renewable energy facilities.
Good practice examples
School bioliteracy, ecosystem restoration, fire management, community inclusion in scientific processes (parataxonomists), the hybrid model (state-NGOs) (Janzen, Hallwachs 2019).
Complex ecological processes and interactions at all levels of biodiversity
High Concern
Trend
Deteriorating
On-going recuperation of the dry forest habitat is one of the success stories of conservation of this site. At the same time, the impacts of climate change on ecological processes in both marine and terrestrial environments are already evident, causing significant and measurable impacts on vulnerable species. The uninterrupted natural gradients of the site from sea-level to mountain tops, and the variations in elevation soils and climate facilitate the shifting of lowland and lower montane habitats upwards, but cloud forest habitats and rain forest habitats are less able to adapt and are suffering the greatest impacts (UNEP-WCMC, 2011). A review posits that the diverse ecosystems of the site hold hope for major biodiversity survival, albeit in new community assemblages (Janzen and Hallwachs, 2020).
Globally important site for conservation of the tropical biodiversity
High Concern
Trend
Deteriorating
As a spatio-temporal mosaic of forests, the site continues to shape research on plant ecology (Hulshof and Powers, 2019). While no systematic data is available to evaluate the current conservation status of key habitats and species that make up the site’s OUV, studies on populations of certain species provide some indicators in this regard. Given that some of the pressures on the site, such as hunting, illegal fishing, and especially impacts from extreme events associated with global warming, remain, it is likely that the populations of many species are being significantly affected. Some scientists believe that cloud forests are likely to disappear within decades (UNESCO and IUCN, 2018). Dry forests are more susceptible to droughts (Castro et al., 2018). Insect populations, especially in dry forests, have been particularly affected by the effects of climate change, associated with changes in rainfall patterns and rising temperatures (Janzen and Hallwachs 2021).
Important habitat of several endangered mammal species
Low Concern
Trend
Improving
A study estimating abundance of some feline species in Santa Rosa National Park, which forms part of the site, found an increase in the numbers of the jaguar (Panthera onca) between 2001 and 2011 and a decrease in the number of cougars during the same period; the number of ocelots remained stable (Guadamuz et al., 2015). More recent studies using trap cameras reveal an increase in the jaguar population within the World Heritage site (Rodriguez, 2020; Montalvo, 2022).
Diversity of bird species
Data Deficient
Trend
Data Deficient
No systematic data is available, however, research on bird diversity using bioacoustic recordings shows that efforts to protect and restore forests have brought benefits for the wild birds of the property. As the forests mature, greater species richness and bird abundance have been observed, and bird communities increasingly resemble those found in the more mature forests of the property (Owen, 2020). However, the effects of climate change may directly and indirectly negatively affect different species and populations of birds through, e.g., the decrease of insects, thus the incidence in insectivorous species.
Important habitat of several reptile species and a massive breeding population of the olive Ridley turtle
High Concern
Trend
Improving
Concerns remain regarding the decline of mass nestings (arribadas) of the olive Ridley turtle on the Playa Nancite within the site (State Party of Costa Rica, 2016). The population has increased slightly since 2007, and there was an increase in hatchlings in the 2016-2017 season (State Party of Costa Rica), but it is too early to tell if that is an indicator of recovery. Recent results of the monitoring of arrivals and births indicate a possible increase in recruitment, which may cause the recovery of the population in the medium term (Fonseca et al., 2020). However, leatherback turtles are critically endangered in the eastern Pacific region and the number of nests registered at Playa Naranjo, an important nesting site for the species, is currently very low (Santidrián Tomillo et al. 2017). Data from monitoring the green turtle on San Jose Island in the Marine Sector indicate that this nesting beach can be considered an index beach for this species. (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2024).
Area of high marine productivity and high diversity of coastal-marine ecosystems
High Concern
Trend
Data Deficient
Current research indicates serious damage caused by human activities, global warming, and some effects triggered by the upwelling of cold waters in corals. The coral reefs within the site had been impacted by the effects of El Niño in the past (Cortés, 2010). Coral bleaching has been observed with the coral reefs of the site in recent years and work is ongoing to identify corals which have been most resilient (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2017). Marine Protected Areas, such as the Marine Sector of the ACG, are threatened by various causes, including: Agrochemicals and solid waste, fecal contamination, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, sedimentation, plastic waste and others, coastal construction, extraction of fishery products, unplanned and uncontrolled tourism, climate change. Additionally, the threat posed by invasive species such as plants (e.g., the marine algae Caulerpa) must be added.
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Deteriorating
While insufficient systematic data is available to evaluate the current conservation status of key habitats and species that make up the site’s Outstanding Universal Value, studies on populations of certain species provide some indicators in this regard. Given the increasing pressures on the site, it is likely that populations of many species are being significantly affected. The important successes in restoration of the dry forest are, unfortunately, being offset by the increasingly apparent impacts of climate change, as well as other sensitive habitats such as cloud forest and seasonal wetlands. Coral bleaching has been observed with the coral reefs of the site.
Additional information
Importance for research
Research work at the 5 research stations and other smaller facilities distributed throughout the World Heritage site, generate about 100 scientific papers every year. Research programs include forest ecology, fauna, savanna succession, the effects of fire, and the behavior and ecology of vertebrate fauna, notably the olive Ridley turtle. The inventory of vertebrates, insects and aquatic biota in the area has been ongoing since 1973 although the biota of the serpentine barrens is yet to be thoroughly studied. More than two million labelled insects from the site are deposited in the collections of the National Institute of Biodiversity (UNEP-WCMC, 2011; Molina, 1999).
Access to drinking water
Area de Conservación Guanacaste is important for water provision and water regulation services (https://www.acguanacaste.ac.cr/acg).
Contribution to education
More than 1,500 children from 32 schools neighbouring the Heritage Site participate annually in the Biological Education (bioliteracy) program, with field trips to the forest, coastal areas, rivers, and other unique habitats, in order to gain a firsthand understanding of their natural environment. Specific workshops with parents and teachers are held to reinforce children's learning. This systematic educational effort, spanning 39 years, has made the area where the Heritage Site is located more environmentally friendly than other parts of the country (Area de Conservación Guanacaste, 2024).
The site is globally important for biodiversity conservation as it constitutes a well-documented example of a continuous and well conserved and protected climatic and altitudinal transect in the Neotropics, through a series of marine and terrestrial ecosystems that include dry, cloud and rain forests. In addition, it allows the restoration of the largest, best-preserved and most representative sample of species characteristic of the Neotropical dry forest, a highly vulnerable ecosystem. The variations in elevation, soils, and climatic conditions favor the existence of a high diversity of habitats. Research work at the 5 research stations, distributed throughout the World Heritage site, generates about 100 scientific papers every year and it has been a useful example of different processes (fire management, restoration, biological education etc.) in conservation of tropical ecosystems.
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | National Parks Foundation | Administration of the Trust for the Conservation Area and support as a legal figure in administrative activities. |
https://fpn-cr.org/
|
| 2 | Guanacaste Dry Forest Conservation Fund | NGO dedicated to the conservation in perpetuity of the biodiversity and ecosystems of the ACG (World Heritage Site and adjacent protected areas). |
http://www.gdfcf.org
|
| 3 | Forever Costa Rica Association | Prepare a baseline study to diagnose and determine mitigation and corrective measures, as well as the implementation of the proposed corrective measures, with the aim of minimizing sediment input to the mangrove and contributing to the rehabilitation of the hydrological flow (Naranjo Beach Mangrove). Rehabilitate small, semi-artificial lagoons used during the cattle ranch to capture rainwater and use it as a reservoir for wildlife during the dry season. Piñuelita Lagoon and Escondida Lagoon). |
https://costaricaporsiempre.org/programa-areas-protegidas/
|
| 4 | National University of Costa Rica | To study the behaviour of wildlife along the 24-kilometre stretch of the Inter-American Highway (Route Nº1), which divides Santa Rosa National Park and Guanacaste National Park. • Analyse wildlife mortality associated with the Inter-American Highway in the context of the protected area it passes through. • Study the use of existing ‘wildlife crossings’ in the study section and their use by wildlife. • Propose and carry out adaptations to existing ‘wildlife crossings’ to improve their function of species passage, habitat connectivity and populations.. • Adapt culverts and determine if there is an increase in the rate and species using these structures. • Assess whether these measures have any level of impact in reducing road traffic injuries. • Carry out together with ACG, MOPT, Municipality and other authorities and stakeholders prevention measures (vertical-horizontal signage, awareness/information campaigns, interviews with drivers) and recommendations for updating mitigation measures along the 24 km route. |
References
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| 14 |
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| 15 |
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| 16 |
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| 18 |
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| 19 |
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| 20 |
Owen, K. C., Melin, A. D., Campos, F. A., Fedigan, L. M., Gillespie, T. W. and D. J. Mennill, D. J. (2020). Bioacoustic analyses reveal that bird communities recover with forest succession in tropical dry forests. Avian Conservation and Ecology 15(1):25. https://doi.org/10.5751/ACE-01615-150125
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| 21 |
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