Organizers expect 5,000 runners from Costa Rica and abroad to hit the streets for the BCR San José Marathon on June 7. The event starts at 5 a.m. from Central Park and covers distances of 5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K, drawing athletes who train for months to compete in the capital’s urban course.
Runners will loop through key areas of downtown San José, passing landmarks like the National Theater and La Sabana Park. The full marathon route stretches 42 kilometers, weaving east to west across the city before returning to Central Park for the finish. Shorter races follow similar paths but with adjusted turns to fit their lengths.
Road closures begin at 4:45 a.m. to secure the course, backed by San José’s municipal police and transit officers. Major arteries such as Paseo Colón, Avenida Segunda, and parts of Calle Central will shut down until midday, when the last participants cross the line. Transit authorities plan to reopen streets in phases, starting with outer sections as races wrap up.
These closures will reroute vehicles around the event zone, adding time to commutes in central San José. Drivers face detours via parallel roads like Ruta 39 or Circunvalación, which could see heavier flow. Public buses adjust schedules, with some lines suspended or diverted during peak hours. Transit officials recommend checking apps or the MOPT website for real-time updates to avoid delays.
For tourists, the marathon brings both opportunities and hurdles. Many visitors arrive specifically for the race, joining international competitors from over 20 countries based on past editions. Hotels in downtown areas book up quickly, and local businesses see a spike in sales from spectators and supporters. The event highlights San José as a spot for sports tourism, aligning with the country’s push to attract active travelers who combine runs with beach trips or eco-adventures.
Yet traffic changes can disrupt plans for those exploring the city. Sightseers heading to museums or markets might encounter blocked paths, extending walks or taxi rides. Airport transfers from Juan Santamaría International could take longer if routes overlap with the course, especially for early flights. Visitors staying outside the center, in places like Escazú or Alajuela, may find smoother access but should allow extra time for downtown visits.
City leaders point to the marathon’s broader gains. Mayor Diego Miranda notes it fosters community ties and pumps money into shops, eateries, and services. With tourism arrivals up in early 2026, events like this help sustain the momentum, pulling in runners who extend stays to visit national parks or volcanoes.
Participants get medals shaped like puzzle pieces that connect to form “San José,” a nod to the city’s identity. Volunteers staff hydration points every 2.5 kilometers, ensuring safety in the tropical heat. Registration remains open, with fees supporting local sports programs.
Residents and tourists alike can line the sidewalks to cheer, turning the streets into a lively scene. For anyone navigating San José that day, plan routes ahead and consider public transport or walking to sidestep congestion. The marathon wraps by early afternoon, restoring normal flow to the capital’s rhythm.
