El Dorado – Was it a myth or is there still gold to be discovered?

El Dorado – Was it a myth or is there still gold to be discovered? The Legend of El Dorado.Could there really be a stunning undiscovered city of gold? The ‘New World’ (16th – 17th centuries) as most historians would often refer to it was punctuated by a number of fascinating stories about lost worlds and new discoveries. Of these, Europeans believed that there was a place hidden from civilisation, filled with incredible wealth known as El Dorado. This, of course enticed gold adventurers who embarked on countless expeditions in search of this city of gold. Of the most popular theories, El Dorado was said to be found near to Lake Parime, a legendary lake found in South America. Early Explorers searched parts of Columbia, Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana but to no avail. The most famous explorer and Britain’s great adventurer, Sir Walter Raleigh, sponsored four voyages to Guyana in 1579, 1595, 1596, and 1617 where he believed the riches of El Dorado were to be found. According to some explorers, El Dorado was spectacularly found somewhere in the Pakaraima Mountains, between the Amazon River and Orinoco River. However, neither the great lake nor El Dorado were ever found.In the 1800’s, Alexander Humboldt strikingly claimed that Lake Parime was actually Lake Amucu which is found in the North Rupununi of Guyana. This lake was first described by a German surgeon called Nicholas Horstman Though El Dorado, the City of Gold was never found, some still believe that the ancient empire lies hidden from the eye. This leaves us to wonder,was it just a legend, or is the gold still there to be discovered?What we do know is the legend of the Golden City of El Dorado lives on and is not only known in Guyana but all across the world.

Sustainable Guyana

Sustainable Guyana Guyana is the perfect destination for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures with immersion in both the wilderness and authentic, vibrant Indigenous cultures. Sustainable tourism is at the very heart of Guyana and significant effort has gone into maximising the positive socio-economic outcomes and ensuring that it furthers community development and conservation projects It’s clear to see why it was named #1 ‘Best of Ecotourism’ destination in the world in 2019 at the Sustainable Destinations Top 100 Awards, given the array of fantastic Indigenous-owned and led eco-lodges. These lodges respect the environments in which they are built and preserve traditional methods of cooking, fishing and weaving. From the sustainable materials used to build them, to the local produce used as ingredients at mealtimes, you can rest assured knowing that your money is well spent there. In addition to an abundance of sustainable accommodation options, several Guyanese organisations offer travellers the opportunity to get involved in a number of sustainable environmental initiatives, making a genuinely positive impact in preserving ecosystems. Whether you choose to participate in Caiman tagging and monitoring at the Field Station in Yupukari or follow in Diane McTurk’s footsteps in rehabilitating the Giant River Otters at Karanambu, it is clear to see the attraction of Guyana for conservationists and travellers seeking authentic wildlife experiences. By taking part in experiences such as these, you will be helping to preserve indigenous traditions as well as precious wildlife in Guyana.

Guyana Rum Route

Guyana Rum Route If rum is your chosen tipple, Guyana is a must-visit destination! With strong cultural ties to the Caribbean, Guyana has a rich heritage of over two centuries producing some of the world’s finest rum, including the world-renowned El Dorado Rum. Experiencing Guyana’s Rum A fascinating official Rum Route, launched in collaboration with the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Heritage Routes programme, places the treasured El Dorado spirit in the spotlight. Both day and overnight tours of the route, with options in Georgetown, Berbice and the East Coast Highway; West Coast Berbice and West Coast of Demerara, are provided by Dagron Tours and Wilderness Explorers. Activities vary depending on the length and location of your chosen tour. However, they all emphasize Guyana’s vibrant agricultural history and the role of sugarcane and rum in Guyanese culture. As an exciting day out for rum lovers, participants can sample spectacular rum and tour the famous Demerara Distillers Ltd to see first-hand how the signature spirit is produced. As the largest supplier of bulk rums from the Caribbean to Europe and North America, Demerara Distillers is known for its rich, full-bodied and fruity rums. The Rum Route also has options for visitors to learn the essential historical truths behind sugarcane plantations and to taste local rum-infused recipes, providing a deeper insight into Guyana’s colonial past and cultural present. If you’re new to Guyana, you’ll learn some exciting traditions, such as always sprinkling a few drops for the spirits when you open a new bottle of rum!

The Capybara ~ the world’s largest rodent

The Capybara ~ the world’s largest rodent Some fun facts on the world’s largest rodent Known affectionately as the “Land of the Giants” by intrepid wildlife enthusiasts, Guyana boasts a whopping 15+ giant species of fauna and flora. Research shows that the pristine nature of the ecosystems these creatures inhabit makes for prime breeding spots. One of Guyana’s many impressive giant species is the Capybara, more commonly known as the Watrush. So, keep reading for some fun facts about this friendly and fascinating semi-aquatic mammal. Tick off how many you know! Often reaching over four feet long and two feet tall, Capybaras are the largest rodent in the world. Given their hair’s sparseness, they often roll around in the mud to protect their skin from the sun. Clever! They are excellent swimmers as their feet are slightly webbed, which also gives them a distinctive star-shaped footprint. Look out for their tracks on the river banks! When it is time to mate, the scent of the females change and they whistle through their nose to attract males. When Capybaras bark, they sound a bit like a dog. Sometimes, when they are threatened, they squeak like a guinea pig. Their two front teeth never stop growing. Much like other rodents, they use these teeth to gnaw at aquatic plants, barks and vegetation – a main source of their nutrition. If these teeth fall out, they will quickly grow back! Fascinating, isn’t it? Their scientific name means ‘water horse’, which makes sense given that they can spend up to five minutes underwater! Despite having a lifespan of up to ten years, they don’t often live past four years in the wild, giving they are preyed on by large predators such as the Jaguar, Harpy Eagle and Caiman. Why not take a jungle kayak tour along the extraordinary Rupununi River? You might just paddle past them!

Guyana’s National Flower, the Victoria Amazonica

Guyana’s National Flower, the Victoria Amazonica The second-largest single leaf of any plant in the world. Referred to as the “Land of the Giants” by intrepid wildlife enthusiasts, Guyana boasts a whopping 15+ giant species of fauna and flora. The pristine nature of the country’s ecosystems allows these “Giants” to thrive, relatively undisturbed. The Victoria Amazonica is one such giant species and it is undoubtedlyy a sight to behold! As the largest of the water lily Nymphaeaceae family and Guyana’s national flower, it is also known as the Amazon Water Lily, Victoria Regia Lily, and Giant Waterlily. Perhaps unsurprisingly given its name, it has the second-largest single leaf of any plant in the world but that’s not all! This plant boasts some impeccable structural characteristics. The enormous round yellow-green leaves have a waxy surface and can grow up to three metres wide. Of course, the plant boasts sharp spines on the underside of its leaves, stems and even flowers to protect it from small animals or fish attacks. What’s even more fascinating is the web-like structure of ‘ribs’, filled with air that allows the leaves to float on the water and support up to an incredible 60k of weight! The reproductive process of this magnificent plant is just as fascinating. As night falls, the lily’s internal temperature rises to diffuse a sweet pineapple-like fragrance as its pure white flower opens This fragrance attracts the scarab beetle, who acts as the pollinator. At dawn, the flower closes upon cooling, trapping the beetle inside. While the beetle collects sweet nectar, it deposits the pollen, turning the plant from female to male. When the flower reopens, it has, as if by magic, been changed from white to pink. The beetle is then released, and this process continues. Victoria Amazonica Fact File Although beautiful above the water’s surface, this floating giant is sharp and prickly underneath. Its spikes defend it from fish in the water and can crush rival surrounding plants. Its pea-sized seeds can be eaten when roasted. The circumference of its round leaf is surrounded by a vertical edge, growing up to 2 inches tall. In order to attract beetles to collect its nectar, the flower emits a scent like sweet pineapple and banana. Each leaf is anchored by a stalk growing up to 8 metres tall. It was given the Latin name Victoria Regia in honour of Great Britain’s Queen Victoria, and its leaves inspired architect Joseph Paxton’s design for the Crystal Palace in London. Its name was subsequently changed to Victoria Amazonica. It grows up to 25cm every day. As the plant grows, it swings its stalk around to make enough room! The flower remains in bloom for up to 2-3 days before its seed sinks to the bottom and germinates. The plant is native only to South America’s freshwater lakes and the backwaters of the Amazon basin, making it a prized ornamental plant in botanical gardens worldwide. Where to find the Victoria Amazonica in Guyana You can watch the breath-taking moment these flowers open by taking a sunset boat trip out on the oxbow lakes of the Rupununi River. Rewa’s Grass Pond and the ponds around Karanambu Ranch are great spots for experiencing this phenomenon. If you’re fortunate, you may even see black caiman lounging on them in the sun, or herons using them as a platform from which to fish. Travel Better with Guyana: Guyana is working hard to conserve its vibrant wildlife and ecosystems and protect its culture and heritage. All passionate globetrotters, curious culture seekers and bold adventurers are encouraged to do all they can to leave a positive impact on the people and places you visit in Guyana. Whether you’re local or planning a trip to Guyana, consider using one of our local licensed tour operators to help maximise the likelihood that you will spot some of the nation’s most iconic species.

Kaieteur Falls

Kaieteur Falls: Planning the perfect getaway Looking for an experience that will simply take your breath away? Steer your travel ship towards Guyana to find outstanding adventure and outdoor experiences. Don’t worry, adventure doesn’t mean that everything is about sweat and sinew. You can travel to outstanding natural sights in a matter of hours and feel like you’re in the middle of paradise. One such magical place is Kaieteur Waterfall – a real treat for the eyes and ears . The Kaieteur Waterfall has been on traveller’s bucketlist since 1870, ever since two British geologists discovered it. Stats and Superlatives Kaieteur’s reputation precedes it by a long distance. It is one of the highest waterfalls in the world! It is supposedly, the tallest single drop standalone waterfall, beating even the mighty Niagara! But not everything is about stats and superlatives. It is the sheer enormity of this wonder and its wilderness location that leaves you in awe. The Potaro River wends its way peacefully through the dense rainforest of the Kaieteur National Park before suddenly plummeting 741 feet down on the rocks, creating a massive misty spray. A perpetual rainbow during the day adds a charming touch to the scene. Your Photo Will Break The Internet Waterfalls are a delight to see if you can get a clear view and plenty of photo-ops. Luckily for visitors to Kaieteur, there are four excellent ways to take photographs of this thundering curtain of water. The first opportunity arrives when you’re still in a small Cessna plane – possibly an 8-12 seater, and your feet haven’t even touched the ground. There are regular flights from Georgetown’s, Ogle Airport that take about an hour to Kaieteur National Park. You take off from the city, flying over the Lego-like city below, sugarcane fields and then the over Essequibo and Demerara Rivers winding their way through the rainforests. As you approach the falls, the pilot swerves in front of the waterfall several times to make sure that passengers on both sides get a good look and have plenty of picture-taking opportunity. Once you’ve landed, guided walks take you to three viewing points, each revealing a better and closer view than before – Rainbow, Boy Scout and Johnson. No rails at the edges, just raw brown escarpments that are perfect for photos. Make sure you have enough space on your card and charged batteries. This is a photo-op you wouldn’t want to miss. Kaieteur Falls Wild Things Since the falls lie in the middle of a national park, you can rest assured that there is plenty of flora and fauna to spot. As the guides take you through nature trails, you can spot the bright orange Cock-of-the-rock and the minute Golden frog, which is often mistakenly assumed to be poisonous. Also keep your eyes peeled for Kaieteur swifts (Makonaima birds), which nest in the rocks behind the waterfall. Guianan cock-of-the-rock Golden Tree Frog Essentials Getting there: Several local airlines fly from Georgetown’s Ogle airport to Kaieteur and back on the same day. The flight takes an hour to reach. Most of these include the 2 hour-national park guided tour. Air Services Limited Trans Guyana Airways (Evergreen Adventures) Roraima Airways Best time to visit: The waterfall is at its magnificent best after the rains, so September-November is an excellent time to go here. Not that it is any less beautiful in any other part of the year. You may want to avoid rains since flights may be choppy or may be cancelled.

7 Curry Reimagined

7 Curry Reimagined: A Seven Curry Tour with The Singing Chef Curry is a universal dish. The aroma of spices intricately blended with each other creates a captivating yet intense sense of satisfaction with each bite. Now, imagine experiencing this in not one, but seven different ways. That’s right, seven. Eon John, known locally as the Singing Chef, and partner Jessica Hatfield, owners of Singing Chef Adventures, have created an immersive, delectable seven curry experience with an exciting twist. What is Seven Curry? Seven curry is a traditional Indo-Guyanese delicacy prepared and served at Hindu religious functions. This dish is traditionally served inside a giant water lily leaf, and consists of seven different types of vegetarian curry, all prepared to mouth-watering perfection. Pumpkin, mango, bhajee (callaloo), baigan (eggplant/boulanger), eddoe, catahar (breadnut) and potato and channa (chickpeas) are all curried and served with your choice of rice, puri and/or dhal. Condiments such as mango/tamarind achar (pickle), pepper sauce and sometimes Indian sweet meats may also be served, depending on the function. Eon and Jessica’s seven curry itinerary is a packed one. Covering a vast six hours, both locals and international travellers will experience the entire process of preparing seven curry – from picking the water lily leaves to preparing the meal. Once you have booked a seven curry experience, a comfortable shuttle will pick you up from your hotel at 8:00 am. Your first stop will be to gather the purine (water lily) leaves which will be plated with all the curries once the meal is prepared. An accessible and secluded spot is usually selected, where you will receive instructions on how to remove the lily leaves from their stalks. If you’re curious, you could be treated to a taste of the edible nuts found within the lilies. Next, you’ll stop at one of Guyana’s busiest markets, Bourda. Here, you can source many of the vegetables for the curries. Bargaining is a staple of Guyanese culture, so feel free to haggle. Sampling coconut water is also a part of the experience. Sip it straight from the shell at Buddy’s, a local vendor. Listening to Buddy’s family history in the coconut business takes just as long as you’d take to consume a coconut – short and sweet. Your hosts will then take you to Tony’s Puri Shop. At this local, family-owned business, you will experience the puri-making process. The four-man operation is seamless, from stuffing seasoned split peas into the dough, perfectly sizing each puri and rolling it expertly with a repurposed vodka bottle. The taste, superbly complemented by the moistness of the perfectly kneaded dough, is even better. It’s delicious, especially when topped off with fresh, local fruit juice. Locals boast that Tony currently makes the best puri in Guyana, and supplies thousands daily. See and taste for yourself. 3ebe 3ebef 3ebef8 3ebef8_5eda26 3ebef8_72 3ebef8_6702cmv2 3ebef8_35267837 3ebef8_c19 3ebef8v2 Then it’s time to go to the secret garden to cook the 7 curries. The garden is shaded with luscious fruit trees, herbs and vegetables and is a hidden gem of a location in Georgetown. 7 curry is traditionally cooked outside so you will be taken through the process of how each curry is made and learn some of the techniques from Eon John the Singing Chef Delicious home made fruit cordial and marsala tea is served during the course of the cooking We then introduce you to the spices used both in the 7 curry and the marsala tea. Special attention is paid to the health giving properties of the 10 different spices used. As soon as the curries are all cooked we will all sit down together under the bamboo and coconut palm gazebo and enjoy. Photo opportunities abound as you are pictured making the curries and then eating them in your own gathered lotus leaf plate in a beautiful setting. To finish Eon John the Singing Chef will take to the stage for your own private concert of lovingly crafted Guyanese songs Then it is fond farewells and depart at 3 pm.

Discover Guyana

Discover Guyana During Cricket Carnival 3.0 || 30 Exciting Experiences to add to your itinerary! September 19 – October 6, 2024 ©Cricket Carnival 592 Guyana’s Cricket Carnival is more than just a sporting event. It’s an immersive experience that combines the thrill of cricket with the rich culture and stunning natural beauty of this beautiful country. From exciting events to breathtaking excursions, there’s something for everyone. So, here are 30 things you can do during the Cricket Carnival period to make the most out of your visit to Guyana. Welcome VibesAs you step off the plane, you will be captivated by the Welcome Vibes at the Cheddi Jagan and Eugene F Correia International Airports, ensuring your stay begins on a high note. You will be serenaded by the sweet sounds of steelpan music and receive branded Cricket Carnival merchandise. The official mascot, Stumpy, will engage with you, take photographs and set the tone for an all-around exciting experience. 2. CPL Cricket Matches Feel the adrenaline rush as top cricket teams battle it on the field, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship. Join us as the Amazon Warriors take home the win again! 3. Linden Regatta For those seeking adventure, the Linden Regatta offers exciting water sports and competitions set against the beautiful backdrop of Guyana’s rivers. 4. Regional Food Festival Food lovers rejoice! Indulge in the finest Guyanese and regional cuisine, featuring dishes that highlight the region’s diverse culinary heritage. ©Cricket Carnival 592 5. Jouvert and Road Parade The festivities peak with the colourful Jouvert and Road Parade. Experience the vitality of Guyanese culture through bold costumes and pulsating music. 6. First Lady’s Brunch in the Country This exclusive event promises authentic Guyanese cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. More importantly, the proceeds will support one of the First Lady’s charitable projects. 7. Pan on the Beach Beautiful steelpan medleys await at the Pan on the Beach. Join us as the best of Guyanese talent graces us with beautiful medleys, perfect for this festive period. 8. Rising Sun Horse Racing Are you a fan of horse racing? For adrenaline-fueled excitement, why not stop by the Rising Sun Horse Racing event? 9. Berbice & Lenora Chutney Shows, One Guyana Concert, Super Concert The Berbice and Leonora Chutney Shows will sweep you off your feet with their intricate line-up of performances. You can join us for the One Guyana and Super Concerts, which showcase top local and international talents at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence. This is an opportunity to experience top-tier entertainment with renowned artists. 10. CPL Watch Parties Catch all the live-action games at the official CPL Watch Parties in Linden and Berbice, where cricket enthusiasts gather to cheer for their favourite teams. Bars and nightclubs in Georgetown will also provide a lively atmosphere in which to watch these games and exchange friendly banter in support of your favourite team! 11. Experience a Historical City Tour of Georgetown Visit St. George’s Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings. Stroll along the tree-lined avenues of Main Street and explore the Hibiscus Craft Plaza for authentic Guyanese souvenirs. You can even make a quick stop at the iconic Stabroek market. 12. Visit the majestic Kaieteur Witness Kaieteur, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, in the heart of Guyana’s rainforest. While there, take the opportunity to birdwatch and catch a glimpse of a few of the 820 species of birds. You can book your Kaieteur experience with Wilderness Explorers, Touring Guyana, Rainforest Tours or 592 Tours. ©Tourism Guyana 13. Schedule a Mahaica River Tours Experience/ Other River based experiences with licensed tour operators Schedule the Mahaica River Tour, which promises an unforgettable experience for persons looking to experience pristine nature, with breathtaking views of Guyana’s national bird- the Hoatzin, wildlife ( Howler Monkeys) and amazing local cuisine. Enjoy a historical, island-hopping tour of the Essequibo islands or unwind on a serene Demerara sunset cruise, taking in the tranquil beauty of the river as the sun sets. You can schedule these tours with Mahaica River Tours, Wilderness Explorers, Wanderlust Adventures GY, Dagron Tours, Touring Guyana, or Old Fort Tours. 14. Experience Kayaking or Paddleboarding in Linden Have you ever tried kayaking in blue lakes? While you’re here, add it to your list of exciting activities to experience. ©News Room GY 15. Stay at officially approved eco-lodges, resorts & B&Bs Explore riverside resorts and interior lodges, perfect for those seeking a more prolonged, immersive experience in Guyana’s interior locations. Officially approved bed and breakfast properties are also available in Georgetown during this period. 16. Book the Canje Creek Sunset Tour with Blackwater Adventures Experience the tranquil beauty of the sunset over Canje Creek in the ancient county of Berbice. 17. Visit the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway Here, you can walk among the treetops and observe the rainforest’s rich biodiversity from a unique perspective. 18. Book a lunch date at Backyard Cafe Backyard Cafe is more than food. It is about the experience. The Backyard Cafe takes you on a journey to learn, discover and indulge in authentic yet equally creative Guyanese cuisine. It’s the kind of food that makes us who we are and brings us together as a people. 19. Experience Georgetown’s vibrant nightlife Visit popular restaurants, bars and even clubs for a truly unforgettable experience in the capital city! 20. Visit local art galleries Explore local art at galleries like Castellani House. Beautiful artwork by talented Guyanese artists is on display. Or take a stroll down Main Street and talk to the street artists. You will find some amazing art pieces. 21. Have a back dam and bush cook experience in the country This farm-to-table experience lets visitors learn about and taste a diverse range of fruits and vegetables. It is followed by activities like bush cooking, cricket, or relaxation before returning to Georgetown. You can book this activity with Touring Guyana. 22. Book the Yarrowkabra ATV Dream Tour with Savannah Tours GY For adventure enthusiasts, this experience in Yarrowkabra along

The Timeless Contribution of Chinese in Guyana

The Timeless Contribution of Chinese in Guyana Guyana, a land of rich history, owes much of its diversity to the waves of immigrants who have made this country their home. Among these, the Chinese community stands out for their enduring contributions since their arrival as indentured immigrants in 1853. This integration is exemplified by remarkable individuals who have excelled in academia, law, medicine, entrepreneurship, and more. So, let’s embark on a journey through time as we explore the cultural fusion that the Chinese have contributed to the rich cultural history of Guyana. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Prominent Chinese Figures in Guyana Some notable Guyanese Chinese include the first President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, the late Arthur Chung; former Chief Justice, the late Ian Chang; entrepreneur Stanley Ming; General Surgeon Dr Wallace Lee; and Mathematician Claude Lee. Other notable Chinese in Guyana include the renowned Guyanese pilot Malcolm Chan-a-Sue, who was posthumously honoured for his exemplary role in Guyana’s aviation sector. Malcolm Chan-a-Sue He was also inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame by the Guyana Tourism Authority in 2022. Culinary Contributions One cannot speak of the Chinese influence in Guyana without paying homage to the delicious fusion of flavours that has become an integral part of the local cuisine. The tantalising aroma of Chinese-inspired dishes, from mouth-watering chowmein and fried rice to succulent sweet and sour chicken, has permeated the air, creating a culinary symphony that delights the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Ask any traveller, and they’ll confirm that the best Chinese food in the Caribbean can be found here in Guyana. Chinese Food_New Thriving Guyana©Guyana Restaurant Week Cultural Celebrations Chinese cultural observances have seamlessly blended into Guyana’s national landscape. Witness the spirited celebrations of Chinese New Year in February, where the streets come alive with cultural demonstrations and an infectious energy that unites communities. Embrace the warmth of the Mid-Autumn Festival or the Spring Festival as families share their traditional treats and celebrate the beauty of togetherness under the gentle glow of Chinese decor. These cultural exchanges, among others, have become cherished moments, fostering unity and understanding among the people of Guyana. The Chinese Association of Guyana has been doing a tremendous job promoting and executing these events. Chinese Mid Autum Festival2©Chinese Association of Guyana Entrepreneurial Spirit Beyond the cultural sphere, the Chinese community has played a pivotal role in shaping Guyana’s economic landscape. With an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, many Chinese families have established thriving businesses contributing to the growth of the local economy. From corner stores to thriving restaurants, their ventures have become integral to the daily lives of New Thriving Restaurant at Providence Guyanese citizens, fostering economic growth and creating a harmonious blend of cultures in the marketplace.   As we celebrate Chinese Arrival Day in Guyana, we also celebrate the cultural diversity of our people. Chinese have woven a narrative of unity, resilience, and shared heritage, creating a destination where diversity is embraced and celebrated. So, on your next visit to Guyana, take some time to experience the timeless contribution of these people, where every encounter is an invitation to celebrate the beauty of harmony in diversity. Or, simply try some Chinese food!

Guyana A Birder’s Paradise

Guyana A Birder’s Paradise It is estimated that up to 820 species of birds from 79 different families have a soft spot for the jungle canopies, coastal plains and golden savannahs of Guyana. Of these, almost 200 species are found in the capital city of Georgetown. It should be no surprise that it is one of the world’s top destinations to spot a mind-boggling variety of birds due to the relative ease in accessing some of the more sought-after species. Of all nature’s treasures in this tropical country, the birds are a special highlight for nature enthusiasts, with ample locations and trails suitable for birdwatchers. Avian enthusiasts can explore low coastal plains, thick highland forests, hilly sand and clay areas and the golden savannahs of the hinterland, with each region offering the perfect spot for finding particular species. GuiananCock-of-the-rock©KesterClarke Serious birders should make a concerted effort to see star birds like the Rio Branco Antbird, Hoary-throated Spinetail, Red Siskin, Sun Parakeet, Crested Doradito and Bearded Tachur. Guyana is reputed to be one of the easiest places in the world to see these species. Visitors to the country will be awestruck by the sheer variety and colours of other birds too. Even if one is a veteran birder, a trip to Guyana promises many first sightings to be checked off the list. The best way to see the country’s offering of birds, is by staying at one of Guyana’s many birding and wildlife lodges; they are situated at the edge of forests and rivers. Not only do they include close access to thickets and trails that are only a stroll away from the rooms, but also the expertise of in-house guides. Here, birders will find comfortable rooms that are aesthetically in tune with the natural surroundings. The experience is immersive and enjoyable at the same time. Hoatzin ©FotoNatura