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Savegre River: Costa Rica's Pristine Jewel

Discover Costa Rica's Savegre River: pristine waters, thrilling rapids, and lush rainforests await your adventure.

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The Savegre River, one of Costa Rica's cleanest rivers, originates in the Talamanca Mountains and flows to the Pacific Ocean. It's renowned for its pristine waters, lush rainforest surroundings, and diverse wildlife, offering a blend of adventure and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Savegre River

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Local tips

  • Bring appropriate footwear for water activities, such as closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sandals.
  • Pack insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against bugs and the sun.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for optimal rafting conditions.
  • Book tours with certified guides for a safe and informative experience.
  • Respect the local environment by not littering and followingLeave No Trace principles.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Savegre River via public transportation, take a bus from San Isidro de El General to La Palma. Buses operate frequently throughout the day, and the fare is typically around 1,000 to 2,000 Costa Rican colones. From La Palma, take a local taxi or a shared shuttle to the Savegre River area. The taxi fare may range from 5,000 to 10,000 colones, depending on your negotiation skills and the exact location you wish to reach along the river.

  • Driving

    From San José, the drive to Savegre River typically takes around 3-4 hours. The roads leading to Savegre River can be narrow and winding, requiring caution. Travelers can rent a car in San José. Be aware that a 4WD is not required, at least in the dry season.

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Discover more about Savegre River

The Savegre River, nestled in the Puntarenas province of Costa Rica, is a captivating destination celebrated for its exceptional natural beauty and ecological richness. Originating high in the rainforest-clad Talamanca Mountain Range, between Cerro de los Muertos and Chirripó, the Savegre River flows south until it reaches an estuary in Manuel Antonio National Park, on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The river's source begins at Quebrada Providencia in the Cerro de la Muerte, Cordillera de Talamanca, at 3,491 m (11,453 ft) above sea level, and after receiving the Division River, it travels 41 linear kilometers of rugged topography to flow into the Pacific Ocean. Known as one of the cleanest rivers in Costa Rica, the Savegre offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country's diverse ecosystems. Its basin is one of the most eco-diverse regions of Costa Rica: 47 different ecosystems have been identified in it, of which 9 are natural, 15 semi-natural and 23 cultural, for what most of the basin is protected by the Los Quetzales National Park and the Manuel Antonio National Park. In 2017, UNESCO declared the Savegre River basin a Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its high biodiversity value, hosting 20% of the country's flora, 54% of its mammals, and 59% of its birds. The Savegre River provides a stunning backdrop for various outdoor activities. Adventure seekers can enjoy whitewater rafting, with Class II through IV rapids providing adrenaline-inducing thrills. The calmer sections of the river offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, where visitors can spot a variety of tropical birds such as egrets, toucans, parrots, and kingfishers. Fly fishing is also popular, with Rainbow Trout being the most common catch. The Savegre River is not only a destination for adventure and recreation but also a place to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of conservation. The area's friendly locals are eager to share their knowledge and passion for the region, making a visit to the Savegre River an unforgettable experience.

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