Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has officially opened on Peninsula Papagayo in Guanacaste, the northwest province of Costa Rica.

Named after the Chorotega word for “lush garden,” Nekajui (NEK-ah-wee) is the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the brand’s exclusive portfolio. It is owned by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and was developed by The Athens Group.

The ultra-luxury resort is situated on 1,400 acres of dry tropical forest atop coastal cliffs. It offers 107 ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxury treetop tents. Accommodations range from guestrooms starting at 872 square feet, to one- and two-bedroom suites, the four-bedroom Nekajui Grand Villa, and 36 private residences featuring two to five bedrooms. The 10-bedroom Villa Guayacan offers ultimate exclusivity.

Overseen by executive chef Lulu Elizaga, the resort’s culinary and cocktail destinations are rooted in Costa Rican heritage. Puna, the signature restaurant conceptualized by acclaimed Chef Diego Muñoz, offers dishes that combine indigenous ingredients with refined global techniques. Niri Beach Club features a menu inspired by Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. Poolside delivers Latin-inspired casual dining. Ámbar is a suspended treetop bar. La Casona Bar is a reimagination of the traditional lobby bar with a botanical twist. And Café Rincón celebrates the country’s rich coffee and cacao heritage.

Well-being is an integral part of the Nekajui experience. Nimbu Spa & Wellness spans 27,000 square feet and is home to a hydrotherapy pool, individual treatment cabanas in treetops, private spa suites, saunas with water views, and more. Wellness experts have designed bespoke journeys integrating local elements including Chorotega pottery, volcanic mud, and Juanilama essential oils. The spa is accessed via a suspended walking bridge and garden pathways.

Guests of the resort also benefit from access to The Outpost at Palmares Preserve, a 250-acre sanctuary encircling the property. Encompassing three distinct ecosystems in a compact area, The Outpost provides experiences such as ziplining, guided wildlife hikes, and canoe excursions through mangroves.

“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 Papagoya 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.”