Raising voices & opening doors for women in ecotourism

What if your next vacation directly impacted more women in the travel industry? You hold the power to choose such a destination, where exceptional service meets the genuine pillars of an eco-conscious luxury eco lodge, focused on community and authenticity.

Today, and all month long, we celebrate International Women’s Day, and, in honor of this special occasion, we are turning the spotlight of admiration onto our General Manager - Catalina Torres Portela  –  a true pioneer in eco-tourism in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone. 

 After graduating with a degree in tourism and a minor in botany, Catalina collaborated with an NGO to develop the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge and managed it for 16 years. She is also an entrepreneur. Before joining Cielo Lodge, she ran her own bed and breakfast in Golfito, and helped establish Golfito as an eco-tourism destination among her guests, who came from over 30 countries. 

Catalina’s professional presence and leadership has a ripple effect, positively impacting employee morale and ensuring an impeccable guest experience.

With the support of Cielo Lodge’s owners, Nicole and Keith Goldstein, Catalina continues to encourage the development of local micro-businesses, including many women-owned businesses, thereby benefiting many families in the Golfito area.  We have partnered with a local uniform supplier, local fruit and vegetable purveyers, local fisherman, and local boat and tour operators to bring the best of the area to our guests.

Her connection to community also allows us to provide truly authentic experiences for our guests.  A visit to a family-owned chocolate-farm, a day-trip to the indigenous community of Boruca, an afternoon spent with an artisanal fisherman, or a beach lunch served by a local family are all activities that we are able to program and arrange because of Catalina’s personal connections.   

And it is because of Catalina – her connection to the community, her passion for the environment, her focus on all things local -  that Cielo Lodge was named to National Geographic’s Six of the Best Luxury Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica

 We cherish Catalina's life-long passion of true hospitality and ecotourism, unlocking doors for other women’s’ futures. Her signature style of exceeding expectations attracts a dedicated team of local talent, and there is a constant buzz felt around the Lodge from proudly serving natural and memorable experiences and cuisine that guests carry home for the rest of their lives.

Ready for your bespoke Eco-friendly luxury trip to one of the best Eco Lodges in Costa Rica? Inquire about your dream family vacation or eco resort rental buyout for group travel by emailing Catalina at info@cielolodge.com .