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Kanuku Mountains Protected Area

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As one of the wildest and remotest regions of Guyana, the Kanuku Mountains amp up the adventure quotient on several accounts. The forest is home to 60% of all bird species found in Guyana and over 150 mammals, offering a single stop for your wildlife curiosity if you are limited on time. Arresting sights are guaranteed in this vibrant protected land include Harpy Eagles, jaguars, armadillos, giant river otters, giant anteaters and arapaima. It’s no wonder the Wapishanas named the region ‘Kanuku’, which simply translates to ‘rich forest.’ Kanuku is one of the last remaining intact Amazonian habitats of the world and one of the most beautiful places in South America.

Getting To And Around

Rising out of the Rupununi savannahs, the mountains are accessible from Lethem via overland travel and the Rupununi River.

Air

The Lethem airstrip located in the middle of the town has daily flights from Eugene F. Correia International Airport in Georgetown. You can hop on a regularly scheduled flight from Trans Guyana Airways or Air Services Limited, or a charter flight.

Road

Regional buses, private mini buses and 4X4 vehicles can get you to the Kanuku Mountains.

River

You can access the Kanuku Mountains via the Rupununi River from either Sand Creek in the South Rupununi or Yupukari village in the North Rupununi.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Wildlife Spotting & Birding

Staggering statistics of 2,300 species of animals and more than 6,000 plants makes this one of the most exciting places in Guyana for nature enthusiasts. The Kanuku’s cool climate makes it the ideal home for 60% of bird species and 70% of the mammal species of the country. The forest offers hundreds of nature trails which are best explored with local guides who can point you to Harpy Eagle roosting sites, help you identify plant and bird species, and share their personal tales of adventure with you.

Moco Moco Mountain

One of the most accessible activities in the Kanuku is hiking Moco Moco Mountain. Starting from the namesake village at the base, the Moco Moco hike is partially made of a natural trail interspersed with 999 concrete steps. With 50 shades of green to keep you company, the hike up can be done in a few hours. Parts of the route are steep, but it is largely manageable by those who are reasonably fit. On top, there is a man-made swimming spot to cool off in, and short walking trails that lead to different look outs. There are also longer multi-day trekking routes. The views of the vast stretch of dense green bush is soothing after the effort.

Active Adventures

Sky Valley Tours, Guyana Truly Wild and Wilderness Explorers offer multi-day tours in the Kanukus. This includes trekking, day hikes, wildlife spotting and birding. In addition to the wilderness camping you’ll experience during a trek, there is a more comfortable albeit rustic opion to overnight at Mapari Creek Camp with Guyana Truly Wild.

Village Life

Home to Wapishana group of Indigenous Peoples, the villages in Kanuku are a reflection of local life in the wilderness. Unassuming local culture, deeply rich in traditions and sense of community offer an immersive learning experience.