Welcome to
Lethem

Lethem and areas around are home to more than 400 species of birds, including the elusive Harpy Eagle, the endangered Red Siskin, Guianan Cock-of-the-rock, White-chinned and White-tipped Swifts, toucans, macaws, cracids, Crimson Topaz, cotingas, and Crimson Fruitcrow. Expert guides from the local communities are extremely aware and efficient at identifying different species and conserving their natural habitat.

The first settlers, Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples discovered Guyana almost 35,000 years ago. These were cultivators, hunters, and fishermen who lived off the land – and still do. Traditional ways of life are practiced among these people, as they stay fiercely linked to their roots. One of the ancient practices is the burial tradition of leaving the remains of dead in large earthen pots on top of hills. The Bone and Skull Mountain is an ode to this practice. The hike starts from a thick cluster of trees at the base, and even though it is not a steep trek, one needs an indigenous guide with a machete to make way through thick trail. At the top, a cave is believed to be home to leopards and also houses large and small earthen pots with skulls and bones. This may be the main highlight, but also steer your attention to the large array of flora along the route.
Timings: Dawn to dusk ; Entry Fee: Based on the guide fee

A short drive from Lethem, the indigenous village of Kumu is home to the eponymous falls that drift down in parts over 1520 feet. At the base of each section, a natural jacuzzi is perfect to beat the tropical heat. During the dry season, it is easy to navigate the falls for a bathe, however the green (wet) season makes it difficult to do so. The water gushes relentlessly down the falls making sections impassable. On the bright side, it provides a great backdrop to amazing photos any time of year . A traditional village style complex at the entrance is great for a cookout, hanging a hammock for a snooze or a picnic lunch.
Hours: Dawn to dusk; Entry Fee: US$ 20

Starting from the namesake village at the base, the Moco Moco trek begins with a natural trail interspersed with concrete steps. With hundreds of shades of green to keep you company, the 1000 feet walk up to the first major viewpoint can be done in a few hours. Parts of the hike are steep but it is largely manageable by those who are reasonably fit. At the top, there is a man-made tank propped on the plateau to cool off in; short walking trails also lead to different lookout points. The view of the vast savannahs and Kanuku Mountains is a soothing after the trek.
Hours: Dawn to dusk; Entry Fee: Free

A large rocky formation with 12 viewpoints, Schomburgk’s Peak stands over Kumu village. Though this is a short distance from the base, the three kilometre climb up is steeper that others and covers a landscape of 3,000 feet. All the hard work pays off when you get to the top; the view of the savannah are exemplary from here. Reserve a whole day for this hike.
Timings: Dawn to dusk ; Entry Fee: Free