Pura Vida, friends!
This week has been unforgettable. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible this place is, but trust me, you need to see it for yourself. We’re exploring an area even many locals haven’t explored: the Savegre/Matapalo/Hatillo region. Nestled between Manuel Antonio and Uvita, this hidden gem is a blend of farmland, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife.
If you’re willing to go off the beaten path, this area will reward you with some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking natural beauty.
A Beach Less Traveled
The beaches here are stunning—long stretches of sand framed by the ocean on one side and verdant rainforest on the other. While the waves aren’t ideal for surfing, they’re perfect for a refreshing swim. Best of all? Unlike the busier beaches of Dominical and Manuel Antonio, these beaches are blissfully quiet.
One morning, we ventured out to gather pipas (young coconuts) right from the trees. If you haven’t tried pipa water, you’re missing out! It’s hydrating, delicious, and the perfect tropical treat.
Creekside Wildlife Adventures
Our Airbnb is a charming property in the middle of a vast field, bordered by a serene creek. Naturally, Adam and I had to explore. We hiked up the creek, scanning for wildlife, and while the journey started slow—just a few lizards and two black hawks—things got exciting on the way back.
As I ducked under a fallen log, Adam climbed over it and came face-to-face with a massive Tiger Rat Snake! This six-foot beauty lunged in a bluff strike, its body flaring to look even more menacing. Although non-venomous, these snakes are known for their defensive bites and rattlesnake-like tail shakes. After a heart-pounding encounter and some epic photos, the snake swam across the creek—straight toward me! Let’s just say we both screamed, and the snake quickly retreated.
This thrilling encounter made the hike one of our most memorable yet.
Unexpected Jungle Treasures
I spend a lot of time on Google Maps, scanning surrounding areas to find something to explore. The rainforest behind our house was enticing and I wanted to check it out, so I found a little trail to explore. We drove up a long gravel road and pulled off to check out a trail that winds through the jungle.
It wasn’t much of a trail, mostly mud, but it eventually turned into a banana field, which is very cool to walk through!
Under a fallen log, we found tiny, fuzzy bats huddled together. These little creatures are amazing—they eat mosquitoes and help pollinate plants, making them vital to the ecosystem.
Then the trail opened up into a river. We hiked along the river bed for a while looking for sloths in the trees. Following the riverbed revealed a series of the most spectacular swimming holes I’ve ever seen in Costa Rica. Their brilliant blue hue rivaled the famed Rio Celeste. Surrounded by towering rainforests, these secluded pools felt like stepping into a dream.
Hidden Waterfalls and Tiny Wonders
We headed back to the Peligromobile and continued our drive up the road to another spot I wanted to check out. It is crazy to see that there are houses miles up these long, dirt roads. The people would come out to see who we were as we drove by, with curious expressions on their faces as if saying: how did you find this place?? Further along the road, we discovered an unexpected series of waterfalls cascading into blue, inviting pools. Swimming here felt like a private slice of paradise—no crocodiles in sight thanks to the small creek’s rocky terrain.
As if the day couldn’t get better, we spotted a new-to-us species of poison dart frog! These tiny, half-inch frogs were vibrant red-orange with teal legs, hopping everywhere around the waterfall. This brings our count to four out of six poison dart frog species in Costa Rica. Finding them was the perfect way to end the day.
Why Go Off the Beaten Path?
Exploring lesser-known spots like Savegre, Matapalo, and Hatillo reminds us of the rewards of venturing beyond the usual tourist destinations. These places aren’t just beautiful; they’re full of surprises and stories waiting to unfold. Best of all? It’s FREE!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, don’t just stick to the popular spots. Grab a map, take the gravel roads, and discover the magic of the unknown.
Tips for Exploring Hidden Gems in Costa Rica
- Use Google Maps creatively: Look for trails, rivers, and off-road paths that spark your curiosity.
- Be prepared: Bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes—these adventures often require extra effort.
- Stay flexible: Not every trail will be well-marked, but that’s part of the fun!
- Respect wildlife: Always keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing animals.
- Pack a swimsuit: You never know when you’ll find a dreamy swimming hole or waterfall.
Savegre: A Hidden Paradise
From tranquil beaches to jungle rivers and stunning wildlife encounters, Savegre has been a dream. If you’re looking for an authentic Costa Rican adventure far from the crowds, this area is calling your name.
Don’t forget to check out our Peligro Life YouTube channel for videos of this week’s adventures—like the Tiger Rat Snake encounter, the hidden swimming holes, and those adorable poison dart frogs!
Until next time, pura vida!
PELIGRO LIFE 