Luxury destination Peninsula Papagayo has been recognised with the titles of World’s Leading Sustainable Hotel or Resort Development 2025 and World’s Leading Sustainable Community Empowerment Programme 2025 by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA).
The prizes were revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognised the individuals and organisations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism

Peninsula Papagayo demonstrates industry-leading sustainability through an ambitious rewilding and community uplift programme across its 1,400-acre coastal landscape in Costa Rica. Anchored in science-based conservation and regenerative tourism design, the resort works with local NGOs to restore native forest, support marine life, and promote zero-waste infrastructure.
Susana Vicente, Director of Sustainability, Peninsula Papagayo, said: “This recognition from the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards reinforces our belief that true sustainability is measured in shared prosperity. We’re honoured to represent Costa Rica on the global stage and immensely proud of our partners, colleagues, and communities including our hotels, Four Seasons, Andaz, and Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve who help bring Peninsula Papagayo’s sustainability vision to life every day.”

“These awards from the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when purpose and progress work hand in hand,” said Francesca Poddie, Chief Operating Officer of Peninsula Papagayo. “We’re proud to stand with others who are proving that luxury and sustainability not only can coexist, but can thrive together as partners in shaping a better future.”
Key impacts in 2024 included reforesting 50 hectares, expanding wildlife corridors, and launching a biodiversity observatory. In collaboration with local schools and artisans, Peninsula Papagayo also empowers residents through training and cultural exchange. Its model integrates luxury, ecology, and equity—offering a living example of destination-scale regeneration.

WSTHA is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent over 66,000 hotels, eight million rooms globally, 300 brands, and over 100 supply chain and strategic partners.
Glenn Mandziuk, President & Chief Executive Officer, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said: “We extend our congratulations to Peninsula Papagayo on being honoured. These achievements reflect an outstanding commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership in sustainable hospitality. At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are proud to recognise organisations that are not only redefining excellence in guest experience but also demonstrating that responsible business practices and sustainability are essential to the future of our industry - a Net Positive Hospitality future.”

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, said: “Our organisation is dedicated to celebrating the individuals and companies setting new standards in protecting our planet for future generations – and Peninsula Papagayo is a truly deserving winner. It’s a privilege to recognise the organisation’s achievements at our second annual Gala Ceremony, and I wish the team continued success in the years ahead.”