A Section of the Highway Disappears After Heavy Rains
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Costa Rica woke up to one of the most severe road incidents of the year: a massive landslide on Route 1, in the area known as Vuelta del Cristo, caused the complete collapse of both lanes. The sinkhole, triggered by days of intense rainfall, turned a partial crack into a deep chasm over 100 meters long. Fortunately, the road had already been closed as a precaution on Friday, preventing any injuries.
According to reports from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), the ground gave way entirely, dragging the pavement and rendering the road completely impassable. Teams from the National Highway Council (CONAVI) were dispatched to assess the damage and determine the next steps.
Traffic Impact and Alternate Routes
The closure of Route 1 between San Ramón and Esparza directly affects the connection between the Central Valley and the Pacific coast—a key corridor for freight, tourism, and daily mobility. Authorities have designated alternate routes based on vehicle type:
- Light vehicles: must use the Río Jesús – Piedra Blanca – Guadalupe route
- Heavy vehicles: must divert via Route 27
MOPT has urged the public to stay away from the landslide site due to the risk of further collapses and unstable terrain.
Recovery Plan: Modular Bridge on the Way
Minister Efraím Zeledón confirmed that the road will remain closed for approximately one month. Starting Monday, crews will begin installing a modular bridge to temporarily restore traffic flow. At the same time, topographic studies will be conducted to design a permanent solution that includes rebuilding the road and removing the temporary structure.
“Within about 30 days, the road will be reopened with a modular bridge,” Zeledón stated, emphasizing that the process will be complex and require interagency coordination.
Implications for the Public and the Country
This event highlights the vulnerability of Costa Rica’s road infrastructure to extreme weather events—especially in October, which has already been declared wetter than usual by the National Meteorological Institute. The closure of Cambronero affects not only national logistics but also tourism, commerce, and the daily lives of thousands.
The swift institutional response and preventive closure helped avoid a major tragedy, but the country now faces the challenge of rebuilding with resilience and foresight.
A Call for Caution and Planning
The landslide in Cambronero serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring road conditions, following official recommendations, and adjusting our decisions to match the climate. In times of heavy rain, prevention saves lives.
At People of Costa Rica, we will continue reporting on the progress of repairs and the measures taken to restore access. We invite our readers to stay informed, share verified information, and support the efforts of local authorities.
