A Distinction for Costa Rica
The WETO (World Equestrian Tourism Organization), headquartered in Spain and active since 1993, chose Costa Rica as the equestrian destination of the year 2026, recognizing the importance of the horse in the country’s history, culture, landscape, and economy. Each year this organization selects a different destination around the world, and on this occasion it seeks to position Costa Rica as an attractive country for horse lovers and sustainable equestrian tourism. The official announcement was made on March 16 at Hacienda Barvak, in Barva de Heredia, in the presence of local authorities, WETO representatives, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Hacienda Barvak Certified
Hacienda Barvak became the first equestrian center in Costa Rica to be certified by the WETO, recognized as a facility with high standards for equestrian activities and animal welfare. The estate offers riding lessons, stable rentals, silica sand arenas, a show jumping track, a warm-up area, and horse training, all under criteria of quality, safety, and ethics. It also organizes the annual Copa Barvak, a show jumping and dressage competition circuit endorsed by the Costa Rican Equestrian Federation, which brings together children, young people, and adults.
Equestrian Tourism and Rural Development
The WETO estimates that more than three million people per year seek certified equestrian routes, with accredited guides and estates that guarantee safe and responsible experiences. With the designation of Costa Rica as World Equestrian Destination 2026, a window opens to professionalize local equestrian tourism and attract this specialized market to rural areas. The IDB is supporting the initiative with financing and technical assistance to develop protocols and best practices that maximize positive impact in communities far from the capital.
Voices and Outlook
The WETO’s General Coordinator for Latin America, Leonardo Silbert, highlighted that the designation will help build agreements and commitment to raise the quality of equestrian tourism in the country. The founder of Hacienda Barvak, Eladio Bolaños, expressed his pride at being the first estate accredited by the WETO and received the “Grand Cavalier” medal in recognition of his contribution to the development of equestrian sport. Local authorities, such as the Municipality of Barva, underscored that this type of project stimulates tourism, reactivates the economy, and generates new opportunities in the region.
Official Sources
- World Equestrian Tourism Organization (WETO): communiqués and informational material on the designation of Costa Rica as World Equestrian Destination 2026.
- Hacienda Barvak: institutional information and communications on its official channels regarding the WETO certification and the Copa Barvak.
- Inter-American Development Bank (IDB): statements on support for sustainable equestrian tourism and its impact on rural development.
