Guyana Nature Experience

Description

Visit one of South America's lesser known locations. Low in tourist numbers but high in natural beauty and friendly local faces, Guyana is a versatile destination that is sure to please. This sun-soaked tour visits the best of Guyana, beginning with the Caribbean beats of Georgetown. See the vibrant natural landscape of the Iwokrama Rainforest and marvel at the force of Kaieteur Falls. Search for jaguars on a safari adventure and paddle down the refreshing flow of the Burro Burro River. Along the way visit small villages and learn of the local customs and lifestyle, not to mention trying traditional South American cuisine.

Highlights

• Spot jaguars on a 4x4 adventure.
• Paddle along the Burro Burro River in canoes.
• Explore the tropical paradise of Annai.
• Soak up the Caribbean reggae beats in Georgetown.
• See the astonishing force of the Kaieteur Falls.
• Take a canopy walk through the Iwokrama Rainforest.

Itinerary

Day 1 Georgetown

Travel to Guyana and head to the country's capital Georgetown, where the Caribbean influences are evident on the corner of every street. Delve into the throng of the marketplace, indulge in some Guyanese cuisine at one of the local eateries, or hit up some of the rollicking bars that make this town famous for its nightlife.

Day 2 Kaieteur Falls

Visit Guyana's astonishing Kaieteur Falls where the Potaro River drops drastically into the depths of a gorge 800 m below. The concentrated torrent that plunges over the edge is like no other waterfall on earth, and the sheer magnitude is a sight to behold. A little more understated, but no less beautiful, Orinduik Falls sits in front of the backdrop of the Pakaraima Mountains. Sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in Guyana.

Days 3-4 Iwokrama Rainforest

Take a flight out across the Iwokrama Rainforest, and get a bird's eye view of this vast area of untouched rainforest. After taking a 4x4 through to the River Lodge, spend a free afternoon exploring the surrounding trails. After dark, set out on the river in search of nocturnal residents.

Day 5 Iwokrama Canopy

Rise early and embark on a dawn walk with a ranger in search of some of the local wildlife. After refuelling with some breakfast, enjoy a 4x4 adventure through some of the best areas of rainforest for spotting jaguars. Finishing up at the Iwokrama Canopy walkway, enjoy some birdwatching from great heights.

Days 6-7 Surama Village

The Amerinindian village of Surama is a wonderful place to meet some of the Macusi tribe and observe their ancient traditions. Visit a local school and learn about education in the tribe. After lunch, paddle along the Burro Burro River in canoes for the chance to spot giant river otters, tapirs and spider monkeys.

Days 8-9 Annai

Drive across the rolling foothills of the Pakaraima mountains to reach the northernmost community of the Rupununi Savanna – Annai. This tropical paradise is a haven for many species of birds, in particular the nectar feeders and frugivores.

Days 10-11 Karanambu

Keep an eye out for Jabiru storks, toucans and spider monkeys on the road to Ginep Landing. Hop aboard a boat for a trip to Karanambu Ranch, the home of Diane McKurk, famed for her work saving orphaned giant river otters.

Day 12 Yupukari Village

Search out giant anteaters on a trip out into the savanna. After breakfast, transfer by boat along the river to the village of Yupukari, where the project hub of Caiman House can be found. This is the location of several development projects, including libraries and village schools, and an excellent place to learn more about the local people.

Days 13-14 Georgetown

Spend the morning learning more about the Caiman House area, before returning to Georgetown. In the afternoon, take a guided tour through the lively streets and grab some last minute souvenirs.

Group Size

Maximum of 10 travellers per group

Accommodation

Lodge (13 nts)

Transport

Plane, 4x4, Boat

Budget

Allow USD $150 for meals not included.