By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Marriott International announced the latest addition to its expanding portfolio in Costa Rica this week, unveiling the Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda, a new luxury property under its prestigious Autograph Collection brand. This opening marks the 23rd hotel for the global hospitality giant in the country, reinforcing its significant investment in the nation’s burgeoning tourism sector.
The new resort is strategically located on the banks of the Tárcoles River, directly at the base of the renowned Carara National Park. This places it in a critical ecological corridor, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity for nature immersion. The location is famed for its transitional forest, where the drier ecosystems of the northern Pacific meet the lush rainforests of the southern coast.
To delve into the legal and business framework that allows a global hospitality leader like Marriott to operate and expand successfully within the country, TicosLand.com sought the perspective of a legal expert. We spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his analysis.
The continued investment by a brand of Marriott’s caliber is a clear indicator of Costa Rica’s robust legal security for foreign capital. Our country provides a stable regulatory environment, particularly in property rights, labor law, and commercial operations, which is fundamental for the complex, long-term planning required in the high-end tourism sector. This legal certainty is a key asset that differentiates Costa Rica as a premier destination for significant international investments.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight underscores a critical point: beyond the natural allure, it is the bedrock of legal and regulatory stability that truly cements Costa Rica’s position as a trusted destination for world-class investment. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his expert analysis on this fundamental driver of economic confidence.
In a statement, the company highlighted the property’s unique environmental and cultural positioning. The hotel aims to blend a deep connection to nature with the charm and elegance of Costa Rica’s colonial heritage, creating a distinct and memorable guest experience.
Nestled in a unique transition zone between the dry and tropical forests, the property offers access to one of Costa Rica’s richest ecosystems. Combining natural immersion with colonial heritage, the hacienda provides a timeless refuge with an authentic essence.
Marriott Spokesperson
Set within a vast 500-hectare private nature reserve, Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda features 87 mountain-view guest rooms. The accommodations range from Deluxe King and Double rooms to a Junior Suite, a One-Bedroom Suite, and a top-tier Presidential Suite. The design ethos draws heavily from traditional Costa Rican estates, aiming for an atmosphere that is both refined and deeply rooted in local character.
The rooms combine refined comfort with architectural elements inspired by traditional Costa Rican haciendas. The interiors create a serene, authentic, and character-filled atmosphere, true to the spirit of the Autograph Collection.
Marriott Spokesperson
The hotel is now available for booking on the Marriott Bonvoy site, with introductory rates starting at approximately $420 per night, inclusive of taxes and fees. In a move to encourage domestic tourism, a special rate of $517.54 is being offered to Costa Rican residents for a minimum two-night stay.
The property is equipped with a comprehensive suite of luxury amenities. These include a nature-inspired spa with a covered outdoor pool, a dedicated kids’ club, and personalized butler service. Guests can also benefit from an on-site naturalist guide and create a customized sensory environment with selected aromatherapy and personalized playlists. Dining options include the Casa del Río and Bamboo Grill restaurants, with La Cantina serving as the hotel’s central social hub.
Targeting the adventure-loving traveler, the hotel leverages its prime location to offer a curated selection of unique experiences. Marriott detailed that guests can enjoy activities such as mangrove exploration on the Tárcoles River, horseback riding to the impressive Bijagual waterfall, and exploring lush gardens that lead to a reimagined colonial plaza complete with a chapel and traditional architecture. The focus is on creating an authentic connection between the visitor and the rich biodiversity and cultural spirit of the region.
For further information, visit marriott.com
About Marriott International:
Marriott International, Inc. is a leading global lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly-awarded travel program.
For further information, visit autograph-hotels.marriott.com
About Autograph Collection Hotels:
Autograph Collection Hotels is a curated portfolio of independent hotels under the Marriott International umbrella, celebrated for their individuality, character, and dedication to craftsmanship. Each hotel is selected for its unique perspective on design and hospitality, offering guests a range of immersive experiences that are “Exactly Like Nothing Else.” The collection includes over 200 properties in desirable destinations worldwide.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundational commitment to professional integrity and the highest standards of excellence. The firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal practice through innovative approaches while serving a broad clientele. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to social empowerment, manifested through initiatives that make legal knowledge more accessible to the public, thereby fostering a society that is better informed and equipped for justice.
