Description
The Savegre River is born high in the Talamanca mountain range and flows down to the Pacific through some of Costa Rica's best-preserved forests. Its water is so clean that it is considered one of the purest rivers in Central America, and its watershed is part of a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. Rafting it means discovering the rainforest from a truly unique perspective.
The roughly one-hour drive to the put-in is part of the experience: you will pass palm plantations, small rural villages and forests that grow denser as you climb. On arrival, your professional guides hand out the gear and calmly explain paddling techniques and safety procedures.
Once on the water, the river alternates between calm stretches, perfect for spotting herons, kingfishers, iguanas and butterflies, and Class II and III rapids that bounce the raft amid laughter and splashes. The canyon walls are draped in ferns and orchids, and slender waterfalls pour straight into the river from the jungle above. In some quiet pools you can even hop out for a swim in the cool water.
Halfway down, tropical fruit is served on the riverbank, and at the end a traditional Costa Rican lunch rewards your effort before the ride back to your hotel in Manuel Antonio or Quepos. It is the ideal mix of moderate adventure and lush nature, perfect for families, groups of friends and first-time rafters.
