Nature of Guyana

Day 1: Arrive in Georgetown

Arrive in Georgetown, Guyana’s capital, and transfer to your hotel. Overnight at Cara Lodge or similar. No meals nor guided arrangements are included today. 

Note – The main international airport is approx. a 1 – 1.5-hour journey into central Georgetown depending on traffic levels. 

Georgetown

Located on the coast, Georgetown is Guyana’s largest city and has a distinctly Caribbean feel to it, interspersed with its colonial British, French and Dutch heritage. The city was founded in the 18th century but did not become the capital until it was captured by the French in 1782, only to fall into British hands thirty years later. It owes its existence to the fertility of its soil – early settlers found this to be an ideal region for establishing plantations, and reclaimed what had been floodplains through the building of dykes and canals. Georgetown’s streets are laid out in a grid pattern and contain many interesting historic buildings dating back to the 19th century, as well as some colourful markets. 

Day 2: Georgetown

This morning is an early start to have breakfast at one of the local stands with our local guide and culinary master Chef Delven Adams, who will take us around Bourda Market, the largest of four markets in Georgetown. Start at the Guyana shop before visiting the fish and meat market and haberdashery section, where you can find anything from thread to all kinds of fabric. Stop at the bush medicine stall before heading outside for local fruit and vegetables. Chef Adams will make his purchases throughout the morning, and head home whilst we continue with a tour of Georgetown. 

We visit the National Museum, and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology which holds a wide collection of artefacts explaining the history of the indigenous people. Enjoy the views of other historic buildings such as the Public Library, City Hall, the Victoria Law Courts, St. Andrews Kirk, Stabrook Market, described as a ‘bizarre bazaar’, and St George’s Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest free-standing wooden buildings. We then visit the botanical gardens, home to tropical flora and then to a pond to feed endangered West Indian manatees. 

We end at the Backyard Café for lunch where you have the opportunity to join Chef Adams in the kitchen to help prepare a local lunch, or you can choose to sit and relax in the café. After lunch we take a cruise along the Demerara River and see the Demerara Harbour Bridge, stopping at a mangrove for sunet where we can see many of the birdlife such as Scarlet Ibis, Snail Kites, Herons and Egrets before taking the ferry back and returning to our hotel. Overnight Cara Lodge or similar (BL)

 Day 3: Demerara River

An early start (0430am) this morning to travel east along the Atlantic coast to the Mahaica River. On arrival at the river landing, enjoy a coffee before heading out on the river, where you have a rare chance to see the Blood-coloured Woodpecker, and this is also one of the best places to spot Guyana’s national bird, the Hoatzin, known as the Stinkbird or Canje Pheasant. After the cruise we have breakfast before returning to Georgetown. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Cara Lodge or similar (B)

Day 4: Georgetown - Kaieteur Falls – Georgetown (Domestic Flights)

Enjoy an early morning birding tour in the city Botanical Gardens. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later take a flight over the forest and visit the spectacular Kaieteur Falls, the world’s highest free-falling waterfall, where the Potaro River drops impressively 741 feet into the gorge below. Afterwards we return to Georgetown for the evening. Please contact us if you would be interested in an option evening experience (additional cost), sampling the atmospheric nightlife of the seawall area in Georgetown. Overnight at Cara Lodge or similar. (B) 

Note: On occasion the visit to Kaieteur Falls may need to be re- scheduled due to unfavourable weather conditions or other uncontrollable extenuating circumstances. Note you are required on arrival at the airstrip at Kaieteur to be able to walk to various viewpoints of the falls. The walking is generally straightforward but there is some uneven ground. The authorities have restricted travellers going right up to the edge of the drop off for obvious safety reasons. 

Kaieteur Falls

Kaieteur Falls is a spectacular site, five times higher than Niagara Falls, and one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. First seen by Europeans in 1870 it was known to indigenous people before this – the legend is that it was named after a great chief. Although there are taller and wider falls, Kaiteur’s distinction comes from its combination of both volume of water and height. 

Day 5: Georgetown – Iwokrama (Domestic Flight)

Take a breathtaking flight over Guyana’s rainforest to the Rupununi, from where we transfer by 4WD to Iwokrama, an incredible region of rainforest with a breathtaking diversity of species. Iwokrama is the most likely place to see Jaguar on this tour, although due to the density of the forest, chances are always slim. This afternoon is free to explore the trails with a local ranger, and later we take a night boat trip to look for Caiman and other nocturnal creatures. Overnight at Iwokrama River Lodge. (BLD) 

Note: Please read the notes on luggage under “Preparing for your Tour”. 

Iwokrama

Iwokrama Forest covers nearly a million acres and is home to a bewildering array of different species. Its name means ‘place of refuge’ in the language of the Makushi Amerindians, who retreated here to avoid the predations of the slave trade. Iwokrama was established as a centre for the study of the rainforest and has been set aside to promote sustainable tourism within the region. Wildlife here includes Jaguar (rarely seen), Caiman, Howler and Spider Monkeys, rodents such as Pacas and Agoutis, and Peccaries among numerous other species. The birdlife here is equally spectacular, with Toucans, Macaws, Hummingbirds and the sought after Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock. 

Day 6: Iwokrama - Turtle Mountain

Take a morning boat ride on the Essequibo River to spot wildlife, followed by a boat journey for the hike to  Turtle Mountain, where we walk to the summit (approximately 2 hours) for spectacular views over the forest canopy. The area is home to Red Howler Monkeys, Black Spider Monkeys, and five different eagles. For those who feel that the walk may be too strenuous, an alternative boat ride can be taken to Stanley Lake to search for Giant River Otters and Black Caiman. Afterwards we visit Kurupukari Falls with their prehistoric Amerindian rock arts (dependant on the river level). Overnight at Iwokrama River Lodge. (BLD)

Note – Hiking in the Rupunini involves walking in hot and humid conditions. We recommend that to enjoy hikes in Guyana, you are a regular hiker, used to walking on uneven terrain and in warm/hot conditions. Travellers who feel the hike may be too much, are welcome to enjoy the surrounds of the lodge. Good footwear is essential as conditions can be slippery after rain which is common at any time of year. 

Day 7: Iwokrama and Atta Rainforest Lodge

Our day starts with a dawn wildlife walk, and afterwards we will transfer to a 4WD vehicle to travel along one of the best trails for seeing Jaguar. Sightings are rare and cannot be guaranteed but travellers have been lucky in the past, so it is best to keep a keen eye out and you may see one of Guyana’s most elusive creatures. We then head to the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, situated close to Atta Rainforest Lodge 35 metres up into the canopy, for a different perspective of the forest. Overnight at Atta Rainforest Lodge. (BLD) 

Note – The walk to the Canopy Walkway involves initially a flat walk through the forest until then a series of steps to the beginning of the walkway. Once at the walkway you will need to cross hanging bridges between platforms at height. Those who suffer from vertigo, may not wish to take this excursion, and can bird watch from the lovely grounds of Atta Lodge. Good foot wear is essential. 

Day 8: Iwokrama – Atta Rainforest Lodge

Enjoy a full day exploring the delights of the forest around Atta Lodge, and the clearing around the lodge, where you will have an excellent chance of spotting the Crimson Fruit Crow. Overnight at Atta Rainforest Lodge. (BLD) 

Day 9: Iwokrama - Surama

Experience the dawn chorus from the canopy walkway before setting off for the Amerindian village of Surama, stopping on the way at a spot known for sightings of one of Guyana’s most intriguing birds, the Cock of the Rock. We then continue to Surama, where a local guide will give us a tour of the forest and the village, with an opportunity to visit some of the houses and the local school. This evening we head out to experience the forest at night. Overnight in the basic accommodation at Surama Eco Lodge. (BLD) 

Note – The walk to try and observe the beautiful Cock of the Rock can be hot and humid and involves walking across uneven terrain and up and down slopes which can be slippery in wet weather so good footwear is essential. 

Surama

Surama is a small Makushi village on the savannah with inhabitants still following time-honoured traditions and relying on the jungle for their livelihood. This isolated and idyllic location offers an escape from the concrete jungle to a serene and peaceful existence with nature. Dawn hikes, led by Surama guides across the savannah and up Surama Mountain, reveal a multitude of birds and fantastic vistas. The guides have lived their entire lives in the rainforest, and have an incredible understanding of nature and how to utilise its resources. 

Day 10: Surama Mountain – Rock View Lodge

Rise before dawn and walk across the savannah in the cool morning air to climb Surama Mountain. This is not a technical climb but can be arduous, and for those who prefer, the local guides can arrange alternative walks. After lunch back at the village we set off this afternoon departing by vehicle to Rock View Lodge in Annai. You can see how cashew nuts are roasted and observe some local handicrafts, finishing off with a dip in the swimming pool. Overnight at Rock View Lodge. (BLD) 

Rock View Lodge

Rock View Lodge is located where the savannah meets the forest covered foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains. With its tropical gardens and flowering trees, the lodge resembles an oasis in the savannah, and attracts many species of birds, particularly nectar feeders. Nearby light patches of forest are home to certain ant birds and flycatchers, and the grasslands support their own species. 

Day 11: Karanambu Lodge

We will take a dawn hike in the foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains on the Panorama Trail with spectacular views across the savannah. After breakfast we travel south to Ginep Landing from where we take a boat on the Rupununi River, to Karanambu Lodge which was established by the late Diane McTurk. Towards the evening we take a boat out on the river to look for Giant River Otters and other species. As dusk falls we continue by boat to the ponds to see the giant Amazonia Regis water lily which blooms at this time of day. On the boat ride back a spotlight will be used to search for Black Caiman and other night animals. Overnight at Karanambu Lodge. (BLD) 

Note – During times of high-water levels it may be more difficult to spot larger mammals such as giant River Otters and Caiman. 

Karanambu Lodge

Karanambu Lodge is situated where the north savannah grassland, swamp and flood forest meet on the Rupununi River and the horse flats stretch towards the Pakaraima Mountains and into Brazil. The settlement has the flavour of an Amerindian village, with its clay brick and palm thatched cabanas set in a compound between the bush and the open range. The lodge accommodates guests in five cabanas with verandas; twin bedded rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Meals are served around a large dining table in the open hammock-swagged living room of the main ranch house. Outstanding tropical freshwater fish and teeming bird life abound. The area is also a last refuge for the Giant River Otter and the river reveals Black Caiman and for the lucky, the huge Arapaima, the world’s largest fresh water fish. 

Day 12: Karanambu Lodge

This morning travel out to an area of rolling grassland which is home to a population of Giant Anteaters There is a good chance of seeing some of these remarkable looking creatures. During the afternoon you can explore the area around the river to glimpse some of the many birds, and in the evening, walk along the airstrip for the chance to spot some of the seven species of Nightjar that live there. Overnight at Karanambu Lodge. (BLD) 

Note – You have a good chance of seeing the Giant Anteater, but it cannot be guaranteed. If you do not see one on the first outing, the local staff will make efforts to take you out again for a second opportunity. 

Day 13: Caiman House

This morning transfer by boat, looking for birds along the way, to the Amerindian village of Yupukari and Caiman House. Tonight, enjoy a foray on the Rupununi River from Caiman House Field Station. As a guest you have the unique opportunity to support and participate in an ongoing field study of the Black Caiman, the largest member of the Alligator family, and an endangered species. If the water level is low enough you may be invited to accompany the indigenous crew as they search for and capture these magnificent reptiles on the river. Overnight at Caiman House. (BLD) 

Day 14: Caiman House - Lethem – Georgetown (Domestic Flight)

After breakfast transfer to the frontier town of Lethem for your flight to Georgetown. On arrival enjoy a city tour of the capital and in the evening, enjoy a fantastic local culinary experience, visiting the Backyard Café for dinner, where you will enjoy delicious Guyanese dishes, all freshly served from Delven and the team. Overnight at Cara Lodge or similar. (BD) 

Note - It is possible to extend your trip with a stay at Waikin Ranch. This is a particularly good option if you enjoy horse riding or just relaxing in a remote off the beaten track working farm environment, with good food, plenty of birdlife, big skies, and a refreshing local swimming hole. 

Day 15: Georgetown – Departure from Guyana

For those that wish to explore more of Guyana’s superb nature, a trip on the Mahaica River is an early morning option (additional cost), where you may be able to spot coastal endemics such as Guyana’s national bird the Hoatzin (also known as the Stinkbird), and perhaps Blood Coloured Woodpecker amongst others. For those that wish to relax, enjoy your final hours at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your flight home. You will be able to keep your room until your departure transfer. (B)