20766 - Papagayo Grand Estates – Investment Overview

Papagayo Grand Estates is an expansive 725-hectare property located in the scenic region of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, just minutes from the exclusive Papagayo Peninsula. This premium land comprises three distinct but combinable parcels, each with independent cadastral plans, offering immense development potential. Its location—close to Liberia Airport, Playa Cabuyal, and the emerging Papagayo Marina—positions it as a high-visibility site with seamless accessibility via public roads and key regional highways.

Property Highlights
• Total Area: 725 hectares (7,247,395 m²)
• Accessibility: Main access from Playa Cabuyal route, close to Highway 253
• Proximity: 5 km from Papagayo Peninsula, 24.6 km from Liberia Airport, near several national parks and high-end hotels

Development Potential & Approved Land Uses
Each parcel within the property is zoned for specific uses, with flexibility when combined:
• Parcel 1: Approved for residential, commercial, industrial, warehouse, and mixed-use development
• Parcels 2 & 3: Primarily zoned for agricultural use, with limited commercial activities; however, merging these with Parcel 1 allows access to broader development rights, ensuring comprehensive use for residential, commercial, and industrial ventures.

Water Resources
Papagayo Grand Estates is well-equipped with water resources essential for sustainable development:
1. Private Well Concession: Approved for domestic and agricultural use, with a depth of 60 meters and permit valid through August 2026.
2. Tempisque River Water Concession: Provides agricultural water rights with flow rates from 0.24 to 50 liters per second, valid through August 2030.

Points of Interest
• Natural Attractions: Proximity to Santa Rosa and Rincón de la Vieja National Parks, ideal for eco-tourism development.
• Tourist Infrastructure: Neighboring luxury resorts on the Papagayo Peninsula, including the Four Seasons and Andaz, enhance the area’s appeal.
• Convenience: Nearby Marina Papagayo, with planned expansion to accommodate up to 350 vessels, is a premier destination for yacht tourism.

Potential Development Options for Papagayo Grand Estates
Papagayo Grand Estates is uniquely suited to capitalize on several emerging trends in tourism, sustainable energy, and agriculture. Based on strategic research, the following development possibilities align with current market demands and the property's distinct attributes:
1. Country Estates and Equestrian Projects
The property’s expansive and varied terrain makes it ideal for country estates, particularly those designed for second or third homes with equestrian amenities. Demand for recreational, nature-centered estates has surged post-COVID, especially among affluent buyers seeking privacy and outdoor lifestyles. Development could include:
• Horseback riding trails, stables, and training arenas
• Clubhouses, swimming pools, and wellness facilities
• Integrated residential units that complement the natural landscape

2. Free Trade Zone (Zona Franca)
Capitalizing on the property’s proximity to Liberia and established roadways, it could be developed as a Free Trade Zone (FTZ), attracting manufacturing, logistics, and technology companies. An FTZ designation offers tax incentives, appealing to businesses seeking Costa Rica’s favorable trade agreements and access to skilled labor. Key industries that could benefit include:
• Medical device manufacturing, logistics, and business process outsourcing (BPO)
• Warehousing and distribution centers, taking advantage of Costa Rica’s strategic trade position

3. Sustainable Agriculture – Hemp Cultivation
The property's rich soil and existing agricultural approvals present a lucrative opportunity for hemp cultivation, which aligns with global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Hemp is valued for its versatility, with applications in textiles, biodegradable plastics, and construction materials. This development could foster both local employment and export revenue, adding an environmentally conscious dimension to the property’s use.

4. Solar Energy Production
The property's large, unobstructed fields and high solar irradiance make it an ideal candidate for solar energy projects. Solar farms would generate renewable income and support Costa Rica’s national green energy goals, leveraging both local and international interest in sustainable development. Solar projects could also attract investment from multinational firms aligned with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

5. Construction Material Quarry
With rich geological resources, the property could be leveraged for quarrying construction materials, subject to regulatory permissions. The quarry could meet the region's demand for sustainable building materials and construction aggregates, supporting local infrastructure projects while maintaining a low environmental impact.

Investment Summary Papagayo Grand Estates represents a unique combination of location, scale, and diverse development potential, catering to the needs of investors and developers across various sectors. With approved zoning for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural use, it offers flexibility for single-purpose or mixed-use projects that align with Costa Rica's growth in luxury tourism, renewable energy, and eco-friendly agriculture.

This property stands out as a landmark investment opportunity in one of Costa Rica’s most sought-after regions. Its potential for dynamic, eco-conscious development aligns with the needs of a discerning market seeking sustainable luxury, profitability, and resilience.