Frequently Asked Questions

The ARK is a contemporary regenerative village offering a healthier alternative to modern living.

The ARK was conceived as a visionary project to create a sustainable, regenerative living model, addressing the need for a healthier, more connected way of life. Inspired by the challenges of the pandemic, it embodies a desire for greater autonomy, freedom, and independence. The journey began with the acquisition of 80 hectares of land in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Founder Marat envisioned a place where residents could live in harmony with nature while enjoying modern comforts and fostering community through co-creation. Key milestones include establishing a permaculture farm at the heart of the project.

In the town of Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, on an 80-hectare (198-acre) property with two entrances — one leading to Santa Teresa beach and the other to San Isidro village and beyond to Cobano.

Located at 197 meters above sea level, 1.6 km from the beach.

Yes, by any type of car. However, a 4x4 is recommended for exploring the wider Santa Teresa area.

Yes, via Starlink satellite internet, which is officially available in Costa Rica.

May–September: Rain 2–3 times per week, usually at night. September–October: More intense rain and tropical storms, but days are mostly sunny. December–May: Dry season with very little rain. Overall: early sun, afternoon clouds, nighttime rain.

Yes, fully solar-powered. Each lot includes a solar panel system providing 2,000 kWh/month (enough for two families) plus 24-hour battery backup.

No. The ARK built its own independent water infrastructure (later donated to the local government) and is not connected to the national power grid — ensuring full autonomy.

A diverse, international community welcoming people of all ages. Life at The ARK is best suited for those who love an active lifestyle and are comfortable in nature.

The ARK is "open-gated" — accessible to visitors at any time while still maintaining restrictions to ensure resident safety and comfort.

No. All participation is optional. You can be a passive resident (own a lot and receive profit share) or an active resident (contribute time/skills for a greater share).

Yes — for residents and visitors to get involved in community events and farming. Contact: info@theark.world

Yes. The only restriction: no roosters (Costa Rican roosters tend to start crowing at 2AM).

No — entirely self-funded.

Sports center: tennis, volleyball, 25-meter swimming pool, ice baths, sweat lodge. Shala for classes, events, and gatherings. Playground for children. Organic market for daily produce. 6-hectare syntropic farm. 24/7 security.

Yes — a Montessori-based school inside the project, open to everyone.

An approach to community planning that emphasizes restoring the natural environment while creating vibrant, healthy communities. At The ARK this includes renewable energy, organic farming, water conservation, and architecture designed to minimize environmental impact and reduce reliance on air conditioning.

Individually titled lots (currently 87), meaning buyers receive full legal title in their name. Lots exist within a larger private property called Finca Madre, parts of which will never be sold.

Yes. Each lot has two legally registered servidumbres (access rights) guaranteeing access via two separate entrances.

87 residential lots available for purchase.

5,000 m² (1.2 acres) to almost 10,000 m² (2.5 acres).

An existing property, an individual lot (solo or shared), or a pre-designed ARK house.

Yes. The ARK enables shared ownership by forming a Costa Rican company that holds the title; co-owners hold shares and divide usage rights via legal agreement.

Book a call — in-person meeting is required to advance a purchase. After your visit and lot selection, you'll complete a Purchase Offer, followed by a 14-day due diligence period and contract signing.

No — entirely self-funded.

10% of land for residential structures. Additional 15% for support structures (garages, yoga shalas, greenhouses, etc.).

300 m² (~3,300 sq ft). To build more, you'd need to divide across multiple structures.

$1,200/m² (~$120/ft²) for basic construction. $2,000/m² (~$220/ft²) for fully integrated construction (permits, design, systems, etc.).

Yes. Construction density regulations are strictly enforced. Residents are encouraged to work with The ARK's architectural team for compliance.

Yes. Starting with a small house or shipping container (~$30,000) is actually recommended so you can spend time on your land and understand it before building the main home.

Yes, but they must be well-finished on the exterior (wood, bamboo, or polished cement cladding) so they don't look like shipping containers.

Yes. Many residents build a small guest house first, live in it while planning the main house, and later rent it for passive income.

Potentially within one month.

Yes — guiding residents through architecture, engineering, permitting, and construction, while also validating pricing.

No. Only regenerative development is permitted. Cutting jungle is not allowed.

Both options exist — some are surrounded by lush jungle, others are more open for those wanting to reforest or customize their landscape.

Starting at $320,000, depending on the project phase.

Yes — up to 60 monthly installments, starting at 0% interest with no down payment. You can begin building while still paying for your land.

Around $30,000.

No HOA. Instead, a maintenance fee of $130/month per lot covers road maintenance and 24/7 security.

Yes: 25% to the Costa Rican family that originally owned the land. 31% shared among all lot-owning residents. 43% shared with active residents and the core team.

Yes, but you must use The ARK's official property management services.

Yes, directly through The ARK website. Many prospective residents stay for a month to experience daily life before committing.

To maintain coherence and harmony — controlling who comes, enforcing house rules (no parties, silence after 10PM), and avoiding the chaos seen in places like Tulum.

Architecture and cost control. Construction supervision. Maintenance and administration. Rental and marketing services. Legal and tax support.

Studio: from $150/night. 2-bedroom: $250–$350/night. Luxury 5-bedroom: up to $3,000/night. Low season (Sept–Oct) sees a 30–40% price drop, offset by retreats and events to maintain occupancy.