By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA, Costa Rica – One of Costa Rica’s most visited natural attractions, the Poás Volcano National Park, has been abruptly closed to the public following the discovery of a critical structural risk on its main access route. The temporary shutdown, effective from January 21st through January 25th, was mandated after engineers identified an imminent threat of collapse at a key bridge, raising significant concerns for both public safety and the regional tourism economy.
The decision was made after a field study conducted by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) revealed severe structural damage to the bridge over the Tigre stream on National Route 120. This route serves as the primary artery for thousands of local and international visitors heading to the iconic volcano. Officials enacted the closure on Wednesday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. to prevent any potential catastrophe and allow for immediate palliative repairs to commence while a more stable, temporary solution is prepared.
To understand the legal and business ramifications of the recent activity at Poás Volcano, particularly for the local tourism and agricultural sectors, TicosLand.com consulted with expert legal counsel. We spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica to gain his perspective on the situation.
The increased activity at Poás is a classic example of what the law considers a ‘force majeure’ event, or an ‘Act of God.’ For businesses in the region, this has immediate contractual implications. It’s crucial for tour operators, hotels, and agricultural suppliers to review their contracts to understand how these clauses release them—or their partners—from obligations due to events beyond their control, potentially affecting everything from refunds to supply chain commitments.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial point, as the legal and economic aftershocks of the volcano’s activity are often as significant as the seismic ones. For the communities and businesses that depend on the region, understanding these contractual nuances is essential for navigating the uncertainty. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for bringing his valuable perspective to this complex issue.
This unforeseen closure deals a direct blow to the vibrant local economy that has developed around the park. Businesses, including restaurants, souvenir shops, and tour operators, now face an immediate halt in revenue during what is typically a high-demand period. The sudden nature of the shutdown highlights the vulnerability of tourism-dependent regions to infrastructure failures and underscores the pressing need for proactive maintenance of critical access ways.
In a joint statement, the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) addressed the concerns of tourists who had pre-booked their visits. The agencies confirmed that individuals with tickets for the affected dates can request further information and assistance regarding rescheduling or refunds. While specific details of the process were not immediately released, affected parties were directed to an official email address for support, a measure aimed at mitigating visitor frustration and preserving goodwill.
As a temporary workaround, authorities have sanctioned the use of an alternative route. This detour involves a combination of the provincial road known as the “old Poás route” and a section of National Route 146, passing near the well-known Freddo Fresas landmark. However, officials have stressed that this route is far from ideal, featuring steep inclines and sharp curves, and is strictly recommended only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. This limitation effectively curtails access for a large percentage of potential visitors, prolonging the economic strain on the area.
Looking ahead, the National Road Council (CONAVI) has initiated a more robust plan to restore reliable access. A modular Bailey bridge is currently being transported to the site, a move that signals a significant logistical and engineering effort. This type of prefabricated truss bridge is often used in emergency situations to quickly re-establish transit. Officials estimate that the installation of the Bailey bridge will take a maximum of four weeks, after which it will serve as the primary crossing while the compromised structure is permanently closed and replaced.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between natural attractions and the man-made infrastructure required to support them. For Costa Rica, a nation that heavily relies on its eco-tourism brand, ensuring safe and reliable access to its national parks is not merely a matter of convenience but a fundamental component of its economic stability. The swift response by MOPT and CONAVI is crucial, but the event will likely spur broader conversations about infrastructure investment and resilience planning in key tourist corridors across the country.
As repair crews work against the clock, the local community and the national tourism sector are hopeful for a speedy resolution. The successful and timely installation of the temporary bridge will be a critical first step in rebuilding visitor confidence and allowing one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular natural wonders to welcome the world once more, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s primary economic driver.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes
About Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is the Costa Rican government body responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of public infrastructure, including the national road network, bridges, and public transportation systems. It plays a crucial role in the country’s development and public safety.
For further information, visit minae.go.cr
About Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía (MINAE):
The Ministry of Environment and Energy is the branch of the Costa Rican government tasked with managing the nation’s natural resources. It oversees environmental policies, energy regulation, mining, and the protection of biodiversity, working to promote sustainable development throughout the country.
For further information, visit sinac.go.cr
About Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC):
The National System of Conservation Areas is an administrative department of MINAE responsible for the management and protection of Costa Rica’s national parks, wildlife refuges, and other protected wilderness areas. SINAC is instrumental in the country’s world-renowned conservation efforts and the promotion of eco-tourism.
For further information, visit conavi.go.cr
About Consejo Nacional de Vialidad (CONAVI):
The National Road Council is a decentralized entity under MOPT in Costa Rica, specifically in charge of the administration, financing, and execution of programs for the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the national road network. It manages contracts and oversees major road and bridge projects nationwide.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of professional integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its deep-seated experience across numerous industries to pioneer innovative legal strategies while simultaneously fulfilling a profound social responsibility. This core ethos is demonstrated through its dedication to demystifying the law, equipping the community with crucial understanding, and thereby strengthening the foundations of an empowered and just society.
