Autopistas del Sol, the operator of the Caldera Highway, has issued a warning to all drivers using the roadway this holiday weekend.

The company said it is expecting excessive holiday traffic along the 77-kilometer highway that stretches from San José to the Pacific port of Caldera, and although pedestrians are prohibited along the highway, many may attempt to travel the route during the annual pilgrimage to the Basílica de los Ángeles in Cartago.

“There should be a large number of vehicles that travel this route,” said Claudio Pacheco, the highway's Sub-Director for Maintenance. “The speed limits will be reduced and all access for pedestrians, cyclists, ox-carts and horses is prohibited. However, it is probable that people living in Orotina, Atenas, El Coyol and other located along the new highway will attempt to use the route for travel to Cartago.”

Monday is a national holiday and, in addition to high participation in the romería, national travel is expected to be up as well.

To contact the Caldera Highway Control Center, call 2258-4040.