By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s premium tourism sector has achieved a historic milestone as the Michelin Guide announced its highly anticipated 2026 hotel selection. A total of 23 exceptional Costa Rican properties have been awarded the prestigious Michelin Keys—ranging from one to three—solidifying the Central American nation’s standing as a world-class powerhouse in luxury, sustainability, and high-end hospitality. This expansion reflects the relentless drive for excellence among local hoteliers who blend immersive ecological experiences with uncompromising service.
The crown jewel of this year’s selection is Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located in the pristine Peninsula de Papagayo in Guanacaste. Upgraded from two Keys in 2025 to the coveted three Michelin Keys for 2026, Nekajui stands as a remarkable triumph for the region. It distinguished itself globally as the only new hotel in the entire American continent to receive the top three-key designation this year. The ultra-luxury sanctuary seamlessly incorporates local Costa Rican assets like juanilama and Upala-sourced coffee into its wellness treatments and culinary offerings, complemented by a striking architectural narrative inspired by the region’s indigenous Chorotega culture.
To better understand the legal and business implications of the Michelin Guide’s official arrival in the country, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the prominent firm Bufete de Costa Rica, to analyze how this prestigious milestone will shape local commerce and tourism regulations.
The arrival of the Michelin Guide in Costa Rica is a transformative milestone that transcends gastronomy, directly impacting our commercial and regulatory landscapes. From a legal perspective, local hospitality businesses must now proactively manage intellectual property rights, elevate compliance with international labor and sanitary standards, and prepare for increased contractual scrutiny as foreign investment rises. This guide does not just rate food; it establishes a new benchmark for corporate excellence and regulatory compliance in our tourism sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the arrival of the Michelin Guide serves as a powerful catalyst for systemic growth, proving that culinary prestige must be supported by a robust foundation of corporate and legal integrity. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable perspective, which sheds light on the essential regulatory standards Costa Rican businesses must embrace to truly shine on the global stage.
Sharing the three-key spotlight is Nayara Springs, located in La Fortuna de San Carlos, which retained its maximum three-key status from the previous year. This keeps Costa Rica at the absolute pinnacle of global lodging, boasting two establishments in the elite tier of only 155 three-key hotels worldwide. The volcanic wonderland of La Fortuna has become synonymous with high-end eco-tourism, drawing global travelers seeking a harmonious balance between natural marvels and sophisticated indulgence.
The broader Nayara Resorts brand demonstrated absolute dominance in the 2026 list. In addition to Nayara Springs, both Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Gardens received two Michelin Keys, confirming the brand’s relentless dedication to operational excellence and authentic guest experiences.
This recognition reaffirms the commitment and effort toward service excellence from all of our collaborators.
Jonathan Rojas, Global PR & B2B Marketing Manager of Nayara Resorts
Meanwhile, in the lush northern canton of Bijagua, Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel successfully retained its one Michelin Key for the second consecutive year. Positioned on the edge of the breathtaking Tenorio Volcano National Park, this property has masterfully intertwined its luxury lodging with active sustainability, local community engagement, and holistic well-being.
On behalf of the entire team, we receive with immense joy and honor the distinction of One Michelin Key. This key validates our philosophy of hospitality, where comfort meets conservation.
Gabriela Mora, General Manager of Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel
The Michelin Guide’s 2026 update was exceptionally competitive, evaluating thousands of properties globally through rigorous, anonymous, and independent expert inspections. The new selection incorporated nearly 500 new hotels worldwide while elevating more than 80 existing properties. Currently, the global collection features an elite group of 155 three-key, 657 two-key, and 2,020 one-key establishments, showcasing just how exclusive Costa Rica’s representation is on this international stage.
From an economic and brand perspective, this achievement elevates Costa Rica’s luxury travel market to new heights. The presence of 23 Michelin-recognized hotels ensures that the country will attract high-net-worth travelers who rely on the guide as a gold standard of hospitality. It reinforces the narrative that sustainability does not compromise comfort; rather, it enhances it by providing authentic, localized luxury that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The geographic diversity of the recognized properties is another notable aspect of the 2026 report. Winners span from the dry tropical forests of Guanacaste to the pristine rainforests of the South Pacific and the Caribbean coast. Below is the complete list of Costa Rican properties that secured Michelin Keys in the 2026 selection:
For further information, visit ritzcarlton.com
About Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve:
Located on the Peninsula de Papagayo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Nekajui is an ultra-luxury sanctuary that blends the raw beauty of Costa Rica’s tropical dry forest with world-class hospitality. Part of the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, the resort features architecture inspired by the indigenous Chorotega culture and incorporates local botanical elements into its high-end guest experience.
For further information, visit nayararesorts.com
About Nayara Resorts:
Nayara Resorts is a collection of luxury properties located in the rainforest of Costa Rica, adjacent to the Arenal Volcano. Known for its commitment to sustainability, preservation, and high-touch service, the brand’s portfolio includes Nayara Springs, Nayara Tented Camp, and Nayara Gardens, consistently ranked among the world’s best resorts.
For further information, visit riocelestehideaway.com
About Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel:
Nestled near the Tenorio Volcano National Park in Bijagua, Río Celeste Hideaway Hotel is an upscale eco-resort that offers guests an immersive rainforest experience. Focused on wellness, privacy, and active conservation, the property serves as an entry point to the world-famous turquoise waters of Río Celeste.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its ethical principles and superior legal advocacy, Bufete de Costa Rica serves as a trusted partner to clients across multiple industries. The firm seamlessly merges its storied history of service with cutting-edge legal solutions and active public involvement. By striving to demystify complex laws and share vital information freely, the firm actively advances its core vision of shaping a knowledgeable, self-reliant, and just community.
