Phoenix, Ariz. (June, 2025) – The Athens Group, an industry leader in luxury hospitality development, announces the debut of Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. Developed in partnership with Mohari Hospitality and Gencom through a joint venture, the project marks a strategic expansion of The Athens Group’s international portfolio and brings to life the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America.
As the eighth property in the Reserve portfolio, Nekajui’s artfully crafted hotel and Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residences mark a defining moment for Peninsula Papagayo—solidifying the region’s emergence as a global luxury destination. Chosen for its rare blend of ecological richness, long-term development vision and magnetic appeal to discerning luxury travelers, Peninsula Papagayo offers the ideal canvas for a project of this caliber.
“Nekajui is unlike anything we have ever created, bringing to life our most ambitious vision yet for what place-based, purpose-driven hospitality can be. From meticulously crafted architectural details to our collaboration with a world-renowned hospitality brand, every element is designed to deliver lasting value to guests, owners and the surrounding community,” said John Mansour, Principal and Chief Development Officer of The Athens Group.
Victor Cortes, The Athens Group’s Vice President of Development, added, “Every detail of Nekajui was designed to create a serene and culturally immersive escape that reflects our commitment to pushing the boundaries of luxury development.”
Years in the making, Nekajui reflects the complexity and care required to deliver a Ritz-Carlton Reserve-level resort in a remote setting, demanding extensive planning, entitlements and construction to meet the brand’s exceptional standards. The collaboration between The Athens Group, Mohari Hospitality and Gencom combined deep expertise with a shared vision to bring this best-in-class development to life.
Nekajui features 107 ocean-view guest rooms and suites, luxury treetop tents, a beach club, seven dining concepts, and a world-class spa and wellness center, Nimbu Spa. Just steps from the resort are the Peninsula Papagayo Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course and tennis center, adding yet another layer of luxury experience for visitors.
Aligned with the growing trend of branded real estate, The Athens Group also integrated 36 two-to-five bedroom Private Residences into Nekajui ideal for large groups and multigenerational families seeking long-term sanctuary within Peninsula Papagayo. All 36 residences were sold prior to the hotel’s opening—an early signal of strong market demand in this highly sought-after region.
For more information, please visit The Athens Group website. To book accommodations at Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, please visit the website here.
