Naturally Guyana: 7 Stunning Places That Prove We’re a Tourist’s Paradise

Feb 247 min read

Tropical paradise? Yeah, you’re probably picturing white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. But hear me out—if you haven’t thought of Guyana as a tourist’s paradise, you’re seriously missing out. From jaw-dropping waterfalls to rainforests that’ll leave you breathless, Guyana’s not just beautiful—it’s wild, untamed, and unapologetically real. Buckle up, because here are seven spots in this gem of a country that’ll have you booking that flight ASAP.

Kaieteur Falls

Kaieteur Falls is the undisputed star of Guyana. If you haven’t heard about it yet, are you even living? This waterfall isn’t just big, it’s massive. Standing 741 feet tall—five times higher than Niagara Falls—Kaieteur is the highest single-drop waterfall in the world. And trust me, when you get there, your eyes will be treated to some seriously exotic wildlife, like the golden rocket frog, cock-of-the-rock, and metallic blue tarantulas. But don’t forget to pack your camera, ‘cause this place is picture-perfect.

The Legend of Kaieteur Falls:

Kaieteur’s name honors Chief Kai, a legendary figure from the Patamona tribe. Local lore says Chief Kai sacrificed himself by canoeing over the falls to protect his people from invaders. A true hero, right? Now, the falls stand as a symbol of strength and cultural pride.

What You Need to Know About Kaieteur National Park:

Protected since 1929 as one of Latin America’s first national parks.
A biodiversity hotspot, with rare plant and animal species.
Full of rich cultural history and stories that’ll make you feel even more connected to Guyana.

If you want a seriously one-of-a-kind experience, take the overnight trip to Kaieteur. This tour blends breathtaking scenery with cultural heritage, giving you memories that'll last a lifetime. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Kaieteur Falls is an absolute gem in Guyana’s tourist’s paradise.

Rupununi Savannahs

Imagine a cowboy movie come to life—and no, I’m not talking about Hollywood. Welcome to the Rupununi Savannahs, located in the southwestern part of Guyana. This place is an untamed tourist’s paradise, filled with wildlife, adventure, and a deep sense of culture. It’s the ultimate off-the-beaten-path destination.

Scenic view of a mountain in Rupununi (Photo by Hannes Rada)

The Rupununi is home to the Wai Wai, Makushi, Wapishana, and Patamona peoples, whose traditions are still alive today. It’s a cultural immersion like no other, giving you a chance to experience a way of life that’s been passed down for generations.

What You’ll Spot in Rupununi:

Giant anteater
Red siskin (one of the rarest birds)
Anacondas and poison dart frogs
Arapaima (a giant freshwater fish)

You won’t just see wildlife; you’ll live it. Activities like horseback riding, river canoeing, sport fishing, and off-roading make this place a thrill-seeker’s dream. And don’t even get me started on the views—every second feels like you’re discovering something new. The Rupununi Savannahs are what makes Guyana a true tourist’s paradise.

Mount Roraima

Ready to explore the lost world? No, seriously. Mount Roraima, shared by Guyana, Venezuela, and Brazil, is the stuff of legends. Standing at 9,094 feet high, this ancient flat-topped mountain inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Lost World—and once you see it, you’ll get why.

The Trek to Mount Roraima:

The trek to the top of Mount Roraima is not for the faint-hearted. Expect challenging climbs, steep ascents, and some serious cardio as you make your way through the dense jungle. But don’t let that scare you! If you’re up for an adventure that’s both physically and mentally rewarding, this hike is one of the most unforgettable experiences you'll ever have.

Along the way, you’ll pass through waterfalls, surreal rock formations, and ancient plant life that’s been around for millions of years. And trust me, the views when you finally reach the top? Breathtaking. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys are enough to make you feel like you've unlocked the door to a secret world.

Mount Roraima is without a doubt one of the crown jewels of Guyana’s tourist’s paradise.

Iwokrama Rainforest and Canopy Walkway

Ever dream of swinging through the jungle like Tarzan? (Or, you know, carefully walking through treetops instead?) The Iwokrama Rainforest offers an eco-tourism experience that’ll leave you feeling like a real-life explorer. Take a walk through the treetops and spot jaguars, monkeys, and birds in their natural habitat.

The Canopy Walkway:

The Canopy Walkway, an incredible network of suspension bridges 30 meters high and stretching over 150 meters long, provides a rare opportunity to experience the rainforest from a bird’s-eye view. The views are out of this world, and if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, it’s like stepping into a nature documentary. While crossing these bridges, you can catch glimpses of the shy jaguar, playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree, and vibrant tropical birds flying by. The forest floor below is home to rare plants like the giant Victoria Amazonica lily, and the chance to spot some of Guyana’s endemic species is high.

After your canopy adventure, make sure to explore the rest of the Iwokrama rainforest. Whether you’re birdwatching or hiking along its well-maintained trails, the rainforest is alive with activity. From monkeys that swing through the trees to the strange sound of a jaguar’s growl in the distance, this is the kind of place that will remind you how awe-inspiring and unpredictable nature can be. The Iwokrama Rainforest is a must-see in Guyana’s tourist’s paradise.

Lake Mainstay

Not into the whole adventure thing? No worries. Lake Mainstay in Essequibo County is the ultimate escape. Picture crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and vibes so peaceful, you might never want to leave.

What Sets Lake Mainstay Apart:

Lake Mainstay. Photo from: Stabroek News

Its unique "therapeutic" properties. The water’s tea-colored hue comes from the surrounding forest, where the leaves release natural minerals that are said to have healing properties. Many visitors find that swimming in the warm areas of the lake helps with joint pain and muscle aches, making it a natural spa experience.

Imagine soaking in the warm waters, with only the sounds of nature surrounding you, while the rich, tropical air refreshes your spirit. It’s the perfect getaway if you want to recharge or just unwind in nature’s embrace.

For those who want more than just the beach, Lake Mainstay Resort offers various activities like fishing, kayaking, and nature walks. The resort is perfectly nestled in the landscape, ensuring your stay feels harmonious with nature, and the local flora and fauna only add to the experience. If you’re lucky, you might even spot an otter or a capybara—just a reminder that this is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Lake Mainstay is a peaceful escape in Guyana’s tourist’s paradise.

Shell Beach

It’s not called Shell Beach because of the abundance of coconut shells (although you’ll see those too), but rather because the entire coastline is covered in seashells. Shell Beach is not only a beautiful place to visit, but it’s also a critical site for conservation.

What You’ll Find on Shell Beach:

Shell Beach, Guyana - Wikipedia — Shell Beach, Guyana. Photo from: Wikipedia

Located on the northwest coast of Guyana, Shell Beach is a 120-kilometer stretch of beach that’s home to several endangered sea turtle species, including the leatherback, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles. These majestic creatures come here to lay their eggs, and if you’re lucky enough to visit during the nesting season, you can witness this incredible natural phenomenon. Turtle-watching tours offer an intimate glimpse into this ancient ritual, but they’re also a reminder of the importance of protecting these endangered species.

Beyond the turtles, Shell Beach is a sanctuary for a host of other wildlife, including Caribbean flamingos, West Indian manatees, and Guiana dolphins. The surrounding mangrove forests and wetlands create a unique ecosystem that provides shelter for countless species. For those interested in birdwatching, this is a hotspot, as it hosts over 200 bird species, many of which are migratory. Shell Beach is another reason why Guyana’s a tourist’s paradise.

Essequibo River and Islands

The Essequibo River, Guyana’s largest and most significant river, is a true hidden treasure. Spanning over 1,000 miles and splitting into countless islands, it’s a stunning sight for anyone looking to explore Guyana’s waterways. The river flows through dense jungles, giving you access to both remote villages and hidden gems that can’t be reached any other way. It’s also home to more than 300 fish species, including the massive Arapaima, which can grow up to 10 feet long.

Exploring the Essequibo River:

Essequibo River - Wikipedia — Essequibo River. Photo from: Wikipedia

Boat tours along the Essequibo are a must, especially for those keen to discover some of Guyana’s historical spots, like Fort Island. The island was once the site of the first British fort in Guyana and is home to several historical ruins. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander through these ancient remnants of the past, imagining what life was like when the Dutch and British ruled the land.

For those with a thirst for adventure, try island-hopping and visit some of the Essequibo’s 365 islands. You’ll encounter remote villages, secluded beaches, and jaw-dropping waterfalls that make this river one of the most unique places in the world. The Essequibo River and its surrounding islands are a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, offering experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.

Guyanese nature is not just pretty—it’s wild, raw, and full of hidden treasures waiting for you to discover. Whether you’re hiking up a mountain, cruising down a river, or relaxing by a serene lake, Guyana has something for every adventurer. So, are you ready to explore Guyana’s wild side? Start planning your next adventure today and get ready to experience nature like never before. Guyana is a tourist’s paradise that’s waiting to be explored.