Nestled in one of the world’s most ecologically diverse regions, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has officially opened, offering an unparalleled ultra-luxury escape in the untouched beauty of Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo. Named after the Chorotega term for “lush garden,” Nekajui (pronounced NEK-ah-wee) represents a significant milestone as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the brand’s prestigious collection.

Set on the stunning Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre expanse of dry tropical forest perched on coastal cliffs, Nekajui features 107 ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxurious treetop tents. Each accommodation thoughtfully integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces, highlighting Costa Rica’s vibrant cultural heritage. Owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and developed by The Athens Group, the resort’s offerings include spacious guest rooms starting at 872 square feet, along with one- and two-bedroom suites, the lavish four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private residences ranging from two to five bedrooms. For the pinnacle of exclusivity, Villa Guayacan provides a 10-bedroom retreat nestled within a breathtaking natural setting.

“Nekajui represents the essence of our Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio—crafted for those seeking the rare and undiscovered”, said Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International. “As our eighth Reserve property and the first in Central and South America, this secluded sanctuary on Peninsula Papagayo immerses guests in the natural splendor and cultural richness of Costa Rica. Every touchpoint reflects a deep connection to the destination, from thoughtful design and curated art to locally inspired wellness and dining. Nekajui is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel, discover, and leave transformed.”

Design That Complements the Natural World

Nekajui’s architecture exemplifies rare luxury, celebrating the rich culture and unspoiled nature of Guanacaste by merging indigenous materials with sustainable design and modern refinement. The resort is constructed using locally sourced stone and wood, eco-friendly materials, and practices that foster a deep connection to its surroundings. This oceanfront retreat reflects an elegant simplicity that upholds a commitment to environmental conservation through low-impact, resource-efficient designs integrated throughout the property.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by La Casita, a welcoming space inspired by traditional Costa Rican villages, leading to La Casona, the resort’s airy living room with breathtaking panoramic views of the Papagayo coastline. La Casona is a contemporary take on the historic haciendas of Guanacaste, honoring the region’s Sabanero ranching heritage through architectural details that evoke the area’s cultural spirit. Hidden gardens and secret pathways await discovery, offering moments of serenity and surprise. The resort also boasts a curated collection of over 550 pieces of art, with nearly 125 original works from more than 30 Latin American artists.

A majestic Ceiba tree stands proudly in the central courtyard between La Casita and La Casona, acting as a symbol of Costa Rica’s deep history. Adjacent to La Casona, La Capilla—a chapel inspired by those traditionally found in haciendas—is adorned with 650,000 locally handcrafted mosaic tiles, representing the power of community and connection. This beautiful space is perfect for social events, evoking warmth and unity through its design.

With sweeping views of Playa Pochote and the Pacific Ocean, the resort’s accommodations feature multi-panel, floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to stunning seascapes. Each room offers outdoor shower gardens, private plunge pools, and deep-soaking tubs, creating a sensory immersion in the natural surroundings. The interiors, with custom woodwork and vibrant accents reflecting the region’s flora and fauna, showcase the artistry of local craftsmen. Elements like Chorotegan-inspired goldworks, clay pottery, and handcrafted wood, stone, and tile further enrich Nekajui’s distinctive sense of place, transporting guests to a tranquil, timeless sanctuary.

Culinary Excellence Rooted in Local Flavors

Nekajui’s culinary destinations provide a gastronomic journey that mirrors the destination’s transformative allure. The resort’s signature restaurant, Puna, conceptualized by acclaimed Chef Diego Muñoz, draws on his expertise in modern Peruvian cuisine. Chef Muñoz masterfully combines indigenous ingredients with global techniques to create an immersive dining experience. Inspired by both the Andean highlands and Costa Rica’s lush landscape, Puna features an exclusive six-seat Asian-Peruvian Omakase-style dining experience, harmonizing native flavors with Asian precision.

Executive Chef Lulu Elizaga leads the resort’s culinary program, infusing global culinary knowledge and creative vision into every dish. The Niri Beach Club, a chic dining venue accessible via a stylish funicular, offers a breathtaking setting with Spanish and Portuguese-inspired menus. Situated just steps from the beach, this ultra-stylish space celebrates the earth and fire elements with a wood-fired oven, Iberian-inspired dishes, and refreshing Agua Fresca beverages. Nearby, Poolside presents a casual dining experience with a selection of freshly caught seafood.

Ámbar, a suspended treetop bar named for the golden hues of amber, offers vibrant cocktails amidst the resort’s lush flora and celestial motifs. La Casona Bar reimagines the traditional lobby bar, serving botanical cocktails made with locally sourced herbs and flowers, complemented by delectable tapas and quick bites.

Nekajui’s innovative beverage program, created in collaboration with The Herball, mixology experts known for their sustainable and culturally rooted drinks, elevates the resort’s bar experience. The Herball’s creations, which blend local botanicals with inventive techniques, infuse Costa Rica’s natural spirit into every sip. This collaboration is featured across the resort’s dining venues, including Café Rincón, where Costa Rica’s coffee and cacao heritage come to life with artisan brews, unique cocktails, and a light gourmet menu.

For guests seeking an intimate connection with the land, Nekajui’s Dining Beyond program offers unforgettable private dining experiences. Whether in treetop hideaways or on a secluded beach under the stars, these exclusive moments allow guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Peninsula Papagayo.

A Sanctuary for Well-Being

Nimbu Spa & Wellness, spanning 27,000 square feet, is an oasis of rejuvenation inspired by the Chorotega word for “water.” This luxurious spa focuses on harnessing the restorative power of water, offering a range of signature treatments that blend local elements such as volcanic mud, Juanilama essential oils, and Chorotega pottery. The spa’s signature experiences include Harmonic Monochord Healing, a treetop ritual that uses vibrational energy for deep relaxation, and the Volcanic Lift facial, which detoxifies the skin using volcanic glass and activated carbon.

Accessible via a suspended walking bridge, Nimbu Spa integrates seamlessly with its natural environment. The treatment cabanas nestled in the treetops, private spa suites, and saunas with panoramic water views offer guests a truly immersive and tranquil experience that connects body and soul with nature.

Boundless Adventure Awaits

Beyond its world-class amenities, Nekajui invites guests to explore The Outpost at Palmares Preserve, a 250-acre sanctuary that surrounds the resort. This protected haven features three distinct ecosystems and offers exciting outdoor adventures such as ziplining, guided wildlife hikes, and serene canoe trips through mangrove forests.

For surfers, the nearby Santa Rosa National Park offers legendary waves at Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point, where expert SurfX guides lead guests through the surf experience of a lifetime. Additional watersports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, and snorkeling give guests the chance to discover the untouched beauty of the coastline.

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the Peninsula Papagayo’s private 18-hole, par-72 Arnold Palmer Signature course, set amidst old-growth forests, valleys, and sea cliffs. This stunning course offers wide fairways and jaw-dropping views. A short walk from the resort, the clubhouse and Racquet Center complete this premier golfing experience.

“At Nekajui, every moment is an invitation to reconnect—to the heartbeat of Costa Rica, its sacred landscapes, and most intimately, to your own spirit,” says Ana Gorjão Henriques, General Manager, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Peninsula Papagayo. “We are delighted to welcome guests to this hidden sanctuary, where thoughtful design, culinary artistry, and transformative wellness converge, creating experiences that resonate long after departure.

The post Nekajui Marks a New Era of Ultra-Luxury Hospitality at Costa Rica Peninsula Papagayo with Its Exclusive Villas, Treetop Retreats and Unique Cultural Immersion appeared first on Travel And Tour World.