Just Back from Guyana | Guyana Travel Blog

Travel Expert Lina tells us about her recent trip to Guyana.

What country did you visit?

Guyana

how did you get there?

I had a long journey with American Airlines via New York and a return via Miami. However, British Airways is starting a new flight to Georgetown at the end of March 2023, so Guyana will be a more accessible destination.

WHEREABOUTS DID YOU GO?

During our time in Guyana, we started the trip in Georgetown and continued on a comprehensive journey along the Rupununi River. We had the opportunity to explore the rainforest and Savannah, staying at fantastic lodges. Georgetown was the end location of our trip too.

Which was your favourite...

Place: Without a doubt, Kaieteur Falls. The flight to the falls is impressive, with miles and miles of the primary rainforest below. Once you land, you can see the falls from different viewpoints. The whole experience is incredible; the falls, setting, and surrounding rainforest are stunning.

Hotel: Karanambu Ranch is an extraordinary place, not only because of Diane McTurk’s legacy of rehabilitating orphaned Giant Otters into the wild but because it has an ideal location between the rainforest and the savannah, giving you a broad spectrum of activities. You could be on a safari vehicle before sunrise, hoping for the sight of the elusive Giant Anteater, or enjoy a peaceful boat ride in one of the nearby lakes while watching how the flower of the giant Victoria Amazonica blooms as dusk settles.

Excursion: Hiking the Iwokrama Canopy walkway at sunrise and sunset, being so high (30 minutes above the ground) and being on top of the canopy forest gives an incredible opportunity for excellent bird watching.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT?

It will be a tossup call between the sight of the colourful Coq-of-the-rock or the wakeup call at sunrise by the loud Howler Monkeys.

WERE THERE ANY SURPRISES ALONG THE WAY?

We had sundowners in the middle of the only highway in Guyana close to Atta Rainforest Lodge, enjoying some cold and juicy rum punch.

What tips do you have for TRAVELERS wanting to visit the same destination?

Guyana has the same weather the whole year round: hot and humid. The best time to see Kaieteur Falls is after the rainy months - September to November / February to March is high water season – when the waterfall is most impressive.

Is there anything INDISPENSABLE to pack or prepare for?

Remember to bring your swimming costume; there may be some opportunities to jump in the natural water pond and refresh yourselves from the intense heat.

ANY LOCAL SNACKS, DISHES OR DRINKS THAT SHOULD BE SAMPLED?

We did an incredible food tour in Georgetown; it allows you to explore the vibrant and lively markets while sampling various fruits and snacks. My favourite breakfast is called Pepperpot, a meat-based stew full of flavours and spices.

ANY RESTAURANT OR BAR RECOMMENDATIONS?

Backyard Café in Georgetown – Chef Delvin Adams buys the ingredients as he takes you along the market on the food tour. Afterwards, and while you are on a city tour, he cooks the most incredible lunch for you. He plans the menu on the spot to allow you to try some delicacies you may have missed during your trip.

expert comment

The baggage allowance on internal flights is only 9 kilos, everybody seems to panic when hearing this, but there is no reason to get stressed about it; just make sure you pack the essentials and learn to travel light. There are plenty of opportunities for laundry at all lodges; sometimes, they can even wash your clothes after every excursion; they will be dry and ready in your room by the time you go to bed that night.

Sum up your trip in one sentence...

A beautiful country to discover remote, wild, untouched and stunning … A winning combination for the perfect nature and wildlife experience.