Rio Savegre

Rio Savegre is a crystal clear river that winds through cloud forest near the village of San Gerardo de Dota. The trail to Catarata Rio Savegre follows the river for about 2km and the whole way is packed with things to shoot. Everything here is intensely green. The trees are draped in thick moss and lichen, the water is pristine, and when the cloud rolls in through the canopy it creates this soft, moody light that is perfect for long exposures and intimate forest scenes. The river itself gives you plenty to work with. You will find whitewater cascades, calm pools, mossy boulders, and fallen logs that all make for strong foreground elements. Keep a longer lens handy too because this area is home to the resplendent quetzal, along with hummingbirds, tanagers, and trogons. The first section of the trail is easy and well marked. The second section leading to the main waterfall gets rougher, with stairs and bridges that may be in poor condition, so watch your footing. There is no entrance fee to explore this area. Morning visits tend to be the most atmospheric when the mist is thickest. (San Gerardo de Dota, San Jose Province, Costa Rica)