Llano Bonito Nature Reserve
Protecting Costa Rica's natural heritage through conservation, restoration, and sustainable reforestation.
Located in Costa Rica's beautiful Southern Zone, the Llano Bonito Nature Reserve represents a long-term commitment to protecting existing rainforest while restoring previously cleared land through responsible environmental management and native reforestation.
98
Hectares
65
Hectares of Protected Rainforest
35
Hectares Being Restored
25,000+
Native Trees Planted
2021
Private Forest Reserve
Ongoing
Conservation Project
The Beginning
In 2019 Reinhold y Asociados was approached by a Dutch investor seeking a sustainable alternative for a failed monoculture plantation located in Costa Rica's Southern Pacific region, commonly known as the Zona Sur.
The property consisted of approximately 98 hectares located in the hills above Rio Claro. Sixty-five hectares remained untouched primary rainforest, while approximately thirty-five hectares had been cleared decades earlier for cattle pasture and unsuccessful agricultural projects.
Rather than pursuing another commercial plantation, the objective became something much more ambitious: create a project that would restore the land, protect wildlife, benefit the local community, and contribute to the fight against climate change through sustainable reforestation.
A Strategic Partnership
To transform the vision into reality, Reinhold y Asociados approached Green Industry Group GmbH of Germany, an organization dedicated to sustainable development and environmental investment.
Together, a comprehensive restoration plan was developed that combined conservation, reforestation, responsible land management, and long-term environmental stewardship. Green Industry Group subsequently provided the investment required to acquire the property and launch the project.
In 2020 Green Industry Group became the owner of the property through its Costa Rican subsidiary, while Reinhold y Asociados assumed responsibility for project management, implementation, and ongoing operations within Costa Rica.
Visit Green Industry GroupOur Vision
The Llano Bonito Nature Reserve was created with a simple but ambitious vision:
- Protect Costa Rica's remaining rainforest.
- Restore degraded land using native tree species.
- Expand habitat for native wildlife.
- Protect rivers, streams, and underground water systems.
- Capture atmospheric carbon through reforestation.
- Create employment for local communities.
- Promote sustainable land stewardship.
- Leave a lasting environmental legacy for future generations.
From Pasture to Rainforest
When the property was acquired, much of the original rainforest remained untouched, but approximately one-third had been cleared decades earlier for cattle grazing and unsuccessful agricultural activities.
Rather than introducing commercial plantations, the restoration strategy focused on rebuilding a healthy, self-sustaining ecosystem using native Costa Rican tree species. This approach supports biodiversity, strengthens soil quality, protects watersheds, and creates long-term habitat for wildlife.
Every planting season brings the reserve closer to its ultimate goal of reconnecting fragmented forest and expanding one of Costa Rica's most valuable natural resources.
25,000+
Native trees planted
Protected
Rivers & natural water sources
98 Hectares
Protected ecosystem
100%
Native species
A Sanctuary for Wildlife
As the forest continues to recover, native wildlife has flourished. The reserve provides an increasingly important refuge for mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and countless plant species that depend on intact tropical rainforest.
Protecting existing habitat while expanding forest cover allows wildlife corridors to reconnect naturally, helping species move safely throughout the region.
- Monkeys
- Toucans
- Scarlet Macaws
- Parrots
- Sloths
- Coatis
- Native reptiles
- Hundreds of plant species
The Reserve in Pictures
A glimpse into the forests, wildlife, rivers, and restoration work taking place throughout Llano Bonito.
Long-Term Stewardship
Conservation is not a one-time achievement - it is an ongoing commitment to protecting the land, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring future generations inherit a healthier environment.
Carbon Capture & Climate Action
Every tree planted contributes to the long-term removal of atmospheric carbon dioxide while helping rebuild healthy tropical ecosystems.
The reserve has been designed to maximize ecological value through native species reforestation, watershed protection, natural regeneration, and long-term forest preservation.
Unlike commercial forestry projects, Llano Bonito's primary objective is environmental restoration and biodiversity, creating a permanent legacy for Costa Rica's natural heritage.
Research & Education
Beyond conservation, the reserve provides opportunities for environmental education, scientific observation, and the study of tropical rainforest restoration.
As native forest continues to regenerate, the property serves as a living example of how degraded land can be successfully restored using sustainable practices and long-term planning.
The project demonstrates that environmental conservation, responsible investment, and community involvement can work together to create lasting positive impact.
Conservation
Protecting existing rainforest and restoring degraded land.
Biodiversity
Expanding habitat for native plants and wildlife.
Watersheds
Protecting rivers, streams, and groundwater resources.
Sustainability
Responsible stewardship for future generations.
"The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is today."
Every hectare restored, every tree planted, and every habitat protected is an investment in the future of Costa Rica and our planet.
Learn More About Our Environmental Services