The next stream system south of the Naranjo is the Savegre. Like the Naranjo, the Savegre has two totally different sections: an upper Class V section for hard boats and a lower section with more moderate rapids. The source of the Savegre is high in the Talamanca Range and its watershed is not heavily developed. As a result, its water run clear and clean.
The descriptions of the two sections come from Tom Hinds, who participated in the first descent of the upper section. We are grateful to Tom for sharing this material with all of us.
Many people have remarked on its resemblance to the Pacuare of the Atlantic drainage because of its beautiful greenery, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Unfortunately, it is also similar to the Pacuare in that it is threatened by a proposed hydroelectric project.
Savegre Section: Santo Domingo to Finca Maritima
Degree of Difficulty: III
Gradient: 23 feet per mile (4.4 m/km) 1 mi. @ 66 ft/mile
Length: 9.9 miles (15.9 km)
Put-in Elevation: 262 feet (80 m)
Take-out Elevation: 33 feet (10 m)
Drainage Area: 207 square miles (535 km2) at take-out
Average Discharge: 2000 cfs (57 cms)
Season: July through November
The lower Savegre is no less beautiful than the upper, but it is considerably less arduous. Commercial raft trips are available on this section and are highly recommended to anyone who cannot paddle their own boat. This section contains numerous Class II and easy Class III rapids, some having excellent play spots. There are pools between the rapids and plenty of waterfalls flowing over the cliff sides.
Several kilometers below the put-in is a spectacular 10 meter (33 feet) waterfall where the commercial raft companies usually stop for lunch. The waterfall, set 60 meters (65 yards) off river right, is easy to miss. Watch for it where the river makes a 90 degree bend to the left; a creek flows in on the corner. Cut under the trees and into the strong eddy on the right. There is no time for hesitation here. Below the lunch stop eddy is a rapid known as Lunch Counter. It offers a smörgåsbord of play opportunities for kayaks. Lunch Counter is the only rapid on the lower Savegre known to have flipped a raft.
The last part of this section of the river is a mellow float as the river widens in anticipation of the sea. The bird-watching is superb, as the second-growth forest and pastures allow offer vistas into a rich aviary habitat. After you enter an African palm plantation, watch for the concrete bridge. The take-out is to your right as soon as the bridge is visible.
