It all began with a small frog. None of us ever imagined that something so tiny could have such a significant impact. – Antonio Góngora
Costa Rica is a country that captivates the senses of everyone who visits. I’ve yet to meet anyone who hasn’t fallen in love with its breathtaking natural beauty. Despite its size, Costa Rica holds 5% of the world’s biodiversity, and it’s no coincidence that some of the world’s wealthiest people own homes in this beautiful country.
Around 2006, the area of Playa Agujas in Garabito began to grow in popularity. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear rivers, stunning tropical waterfalls, and birdwatching spots filled with exotic species, this region offered a true sanctuary of peace—a place where nature could be felt in its purest form. Playa Agujas quickly became a sought-after destination for hundreds of foreigners looking to find a home away from the bustle of more tourist-heavy areas in Costa Rica. This growing interest didn’t go unnoticed by some of the top real estate developers, including Antonio Góngora, now president of VIVENDI Investment Group.
Urban development in the area was visibly growing. However, Costa Rica’s strict environmental protection laws and zoning regulations posed constant challenges for builders, who, for practical reasons, often opted to develop projects on more accessible land, requiring fewer permits and allowing for faster construction.
One day, Antonio decided to visit Playa Agujas. Walking along the sand, breathing in the fresh coastal air, he was struck by the tropical beauty of the coastline. It was the most unspoiled beach he had seen in the region, and in that moment, Antonio had a revelation. He had long dreamed of building a condominium that was not only an architectural masterpiece but that also offered large, private plots where people could connect directly with Costa Rica’s natural richness. It was a bold vision, something no one had attempted because of the strict regulations.
“This is the place,” he thought.
After exploring Costa Rica from coast to coast, he had finally found the perfect spot to bring his vision to life. But not everyone shared his enthusiasm.
“You’re crazy, Antonio,” his colleagues told him. “Do you know how many years it will take to get the permits to build? That’s if you even get them!”
Antonio looked around and noticed a unique feature of the area—a hill, the only one in the region, situated just in front of Playa Agujas with the perfect elevation and distance to make his project a
reality. Without hesitation, he climbed to one of the highest points, and once
he reached the top, he was speechless.
“I remember standing on that hill,
awestruck by the nature around me. I remember hearing the river flowing just a
few meters away, the calls of exotic birds, and the brilliant green of the tree
canopy. From there, I could see the small town of Quebrada Ganado below, with
its red rooftops, and in the distance, Playa Agujas with the sun setting over
the endless ocean in shades of red and orange.”
As he stood there, mesmerized by the view and the magic of the moment, he looked down and saw, at his feet, a small, bright green frog shimmering in the evening light. Kneeling down, he extended his hand, and the tiny frog took a gentle leap, landing softly in his palm. Antonio gazed at it, realizing in that instant he had found the sign he needed to move forward. He felt a spark in his spirit, a motivation that would carry him through the years to come.
After more than 15 years of hard work, design, paperwork, and permits, VIVENDI Investment Group is now proud to present its most important project: “Agujas Ocean View,” the realization of a dream inspired by a small frog that, unknowingly, would make a big impact.
Mauricio Gutiérrez
CCO – Managing Partner
VIVENDI Investment Group