Costa Rica has expanded special train services between San José and Cartago to support the annual pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. The continuous rail operation gives thousands of faith travellers a safer, affordable and more convenient public transport option during one of the country’s largest religious gatherings.
The Costa Rican Railway Institute, known as INCOFER, scheduled the special operation from 9:00 a.m. on August 1 until midday on August 2. Trains connect Cartago Station with Atlántico Station in San José, providing services throughout the day and overnight.
The additional departures respond to exceptional passenger demand generated by the annual pilgrimage, locally known as the Romería. The event brings worshippers from across Costa Rica to Cartago ahead of the August 2 feast of Our Lady of the Angels, the country’s patroness.
More Frequent Trains Support Pilgrims
During the first phase of the operation, trains depart hourly from both Cartago and San José between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Services become more frequent from 8:00 p.m., with departures approximately every 35 minutes. The overnight schedule continues into the following morning, with the final trains in both directions scheduled shortly before midday on August 2.
This timetable gives pilgrims greater flexibility when planning their journeys. Some travellers can use the train before completing part of the pilgrimage on foot. Others can travel directly to Cartago or use rail services for their return journey after visiting the basilica.
Overnight operations are particularly important because many pilgrims arrive in Cartago during the evening and early morning. Continuous services also distribute passenger demand across a longer period, reducing pressure at stations during peak hours.
Capacity Reaches About 26,000 Passengers
INCOFER is deploying Diesel Multiple Unit trains for the special programme. The expanded operation is expected to provide capacity for approximately 26,000 passenger journeys during the pilgrimage period.
The additional capacity strengthens public mobility along the busy San José–Cartago corridor. It also provides an alternative to private vehicles, buses and taxis during a weekend when road traffic normally increases sharply.
Rail connections can reduce the number of vehicles approaching central Cartago. This can help ease congestion around access roads while supporting security, emergency response and crowd-management plans.
The service therefore plays a broader role than simply transporting passengers. It supports the coordinated movement of visitors during a nationally important cultural and religious event.
Regular Fare Keeps Pilgrimage Affordable
Passengers travelling between Atlántico Station and Cartago pay the regular approved fare of 710 Costa Rican colones.
The fare applies to the complete journey between the two cities. Maintaining the normal price during the special operation keeps rail travel accessible to families, students, older travellers and other pilgrims.
Affordable transport is especially important during the Romería because participants come from different communities and economic backgrounds. The regular fare ensures increased frequency does not result in higher travel costs during the event.
Intermediate Stops Widen Visitor Access
The pilgrimage trains serve several stations between San José and Cartago. Stops include Cartago, Tres Ríos, UACA, CFIA Curridabat, Universidad Latina in San Pedro, the University of Costa Rica area and Atlántico Station.
These intermediate connections allow travellers from eastern San José and surrounding communities to join the route without first travelling into the centre of the capital.
The service also improves access for visitors staying in different parts of the Greater Metropolitan Area. Hotels, small accommodation providers, restaurants, shops and local transport businesses can benefit from increased movement along the corridor.
Religious Tourism Strengthens Cartago
The Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels is among Costa Rica’s most important religious and cultural landmarks. The annual pilgrimage traditionally attracts large crowds during the wider celebration period.
The basilica is closely associated with the image of Our Lady of the Angels, widely known in Costa Rica as La Negrita. The devotion has shaped the country’s religious identity for generations and makes Cartago a major centre for domestic faith tourism.
Visitors travelling for the pilgrimage also support Cartago’s tourism economy. Demand increases for food, beverages, pharmacies, local transport and other visitor services. Meanwhile, public authorities coordinate mobility, health, safety and public-space management.
The event also strengthens Cartago’s profile as a cultural destination. Visitors may explore historic sites, local restaurants and community businesses before or after completing their religious journey.
Rail Supports Sustainable Event Travel
Expanded train services encourage more sustainable travel during a large national gathering. A single train can move many passengers while using less road space than the equivalent number of private vehicles.
The operation demonstrates how public transport can strengthen tourism access while supporting major events. Frequent services, intermediate stops and an affordable fare create a practical travel option for pilgrims.
Reducing dependence on private cars can also improve the overall visitor experience. Less congestion may help travellers move more efficiently while allowing local authorities to manage pedestrian routes and emergency access more effectively.
Travellers should arrive early, follow station instructions and allow additional boarding time because passenger demand remains high.
Through the special San José–Cartago schedule, Costa Rica is improving access to one of its most meaningful annual traditions. The expanded operation supports religious tourism, reduces pressure on roads and helps pilgrims complete their journey with greater convenience, affordability and confidence.
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