Day 01: Georgetown
Arrive Georgetown meet and assist at the airport and transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Hotel.

Day 02: Georgetown- Kaieteur Falls- Georgetown          B
After breakfast we return to the airport and board a flight over the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers and hundreds of kilometres of unbroken rainforest to the remote airstrip at the top of Kaieteur Falls. The world’s largest single drop falls by volume see the entirety of the Potaro River plummet 226m into the gorge below. We have around two-hours to view the falls before returning to Georgetown in the evening.
Overnight in Hotel.

Day 03: Georgetown – Iwokrama              B-L-D
After breakfast transfer to airport to take a flight from Georgetown, over apparently endless rainforest, to Fair View Airstrip, from where we transfer by 4WD to Iwokrama Forest. One of the world’s few remaining pristine rainforests, Iwokrama contains a breathtaking diversity of species, offering the best opportunity to see jaguar in the wild. In the afternoon we explore forest trails with a ranger, later taking a night-time boat trip in search of caimans and other nocturnal wildlife.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 04: Iwokrama                     B-L-D
After breakfast Take a morning boat ride on the Essequibo River to spot wildlife, followed by a boat journey for the hike to Turtle Mountain, where we walk to the summit (approximately 2 hours) for spectacular views over the forest canopy. The area is home to Red Howler Monkeys, Black Spider Monkeys, and five different eagles. For those who feel that the walk may be too strenuous an alternative boat ride can be taken to Stanley Lake to search for Giant River Otters and Black Caiman. Afterwards we visit Kurupukari Falls with their prehistoric Amerindian rock arts (dependant on the river level).
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 05: Iwokrama               B-L-D
Our day starts with a dawn wildlife walk, and afterwards we will transfer to a 4WD vehicle to travel along one of the best trails for seeing Jaguar. Sightings cannot be guaranteed but if you are very lucky you may see one of Guyana’s most elusive creatures. We then head to the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, 35 metres up into the canopy, for a different perspective of the forest.
Overnight at  Lodge.

Day 06: Iwokrama              B-L-D
After breakfast Enjoy a full day exploring the forest around Atta Lodge, and also the clearing around the lodge, where you will have an excellent chance of spotting the Crimson Fruit Crow.
Overnight at Atta Lodge.

Day 07: Iwokrama – Surama                  B-L-D
Today we experience the dawn chorus from the canopy walkway and look out for red howler and black spider monkeys, before setting off for the Amerindian village of Surama. En route we stop at an area known for sightings of one of Guyana’s most intriguing birds, the cock-of-the-rock. Arriving in Surama there’s a guided tour of the forest and the village, with an opportunity to visit houses, the community church, the medical centre and the local school. In the evening we head out to experience the forest at night before returning to basic accommodation at the nearby lodge.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 08: Surama                     B-L-D
Rising before dawn, we walk across the savannah in the cool morning air to climb Surama Mountain. Though not a technical climb the ascent can be demanding, and for those who prefer, alternative activities are available with local guides. After lunch at the village, we walk the five kilometres to Burro Burro River for a canoe trip where we hope to see giant river otter, tapir and spider monkey.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 09: Annai                             B-L-D
After breakfast we take a guided walk through the forest before departing by vehicle to Rock View Lodge in Annai. Here we see how cashew nuts are roasted, observe local handicraft makers, and finish the day with a dip in the lodge’s swimming pool.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 10: Annai – Karanambu Lodge              B-L-D
A dawn hike in the foothills of the Pakaraima Mountains, following the Panorama Trail, offers remarkable views across the savannah. After breakfast we travel south to Ginep Landing and take a boat on the Rupununi River to Karanambu Lodge. The lodge was established by the late Diane McTurk, renowned for her research on giant river otters. Later, towards the evening, we return to the river searching for otters and other species. As dusk falls, we cruise to riverine ponds where giant amazonia regis water lily blooms at this time of day. Returning to the lodge, we use a spotlight to search for black caiman and other nocturnal species.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 11: Karanambu Lodge               B-L-D
After breakfast travel to an area of rolling grassland, home to a population of giant anteater. Though never guaranteed, this is an excellent chance to see these strange-looking creatures. In the afternoon it’s possible to explore the area around the river and observe its rich bird life, including seven species of Nightjar.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 12: Karanambu Lodge – Yupukari – Caiman               B-L-D
After breakfast transfer to boat we board a boat for a journey to the Amerindian village of Yupukari, and Caiman House. In the evening we head out on the Rupununi River from Caiman House Field Station. As a guest there’s a unique opportunity to support and participate in ongoing field studies of the black caiman, the largest member of the alligator family, and an endangered species. If the water level is low enough guests are invited to accompany the crew on expeditions to capture and record details of these magnificent reptiles.
Overnight in House.

Day 13: Caiman House – Georgetown              B-D
After breakfast we drive to Letham to board a return flight to Georgetown. On arrival there’s a city tour of the capital, later visiting the Backyard Café for dinner.
Overnight in Lodge.

Day 14: Georgetown                          B
After Breakfast departure transfer to airport to catch the flight for onward journey,

Day 01: Arrive Guyana
Arrive Guyana meet and assist at the Airport and transfer to your hotel. Georgetown, the chief port, capital and largest city of Guyana, is situated on the right bank of the Demerara River Estuary. It was chosen as a site for a fort to guard the early Dutch settlements of the Demerara River. The city of Georgetown was designed largely by the Dutch and is laid out in a rectangular pattern with wide tree lined avenues and irrigation canals that crisscross the city.

Most of the buildings in the city are wooden with unique architecture dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. For the most part the buildings have Demerara shutters and designed fretwork, which trim eaves and windows. Main Street, Georgetown, provides several excellent examples of old colonial homes, a prime example of which is the State House, built in 1852. The State House is set in large gardens and is painted green and white and has hosted many visiting dignitaries.

During your visit to Georgetown there are a number of interesting sights that should not be missed, the most famous being St. George’s Cathedral. The Cathedral is one of the world’s tallest free standing wooden buildings and was consecrated on 1892. The foundation stone was laid on November 23, 1890, and the building was designed by Sir Arthur Bloomfield. The story of the cathedral is told in the interior on tablets and memorials of an historical and sentimental nature: it is the tale of the history of Guyana in general and of the Diocese in particular.

At the beginning of the Avenue of the Republic stands the Public Library housed in the Carnegie Building. Other historic buildings along this promenade are the Town Hall, a splendid example of Gothic architecture, and further along are the Victoria Law Courts and St. Andrew’s Kirk. St. Andrew’s is the oldest surviving structure of any church in Guyana.

The famous Stabroek Market, once described as a “bizarre bazaar”, contains every conceivable item from household goods and gold jewellery to fresh meat and vegetables brought to town on the river daily. The clock tower can be seen for miles around and is a famous landmark.

No trip to Georgetown would be complete without a visit to the Botanical Gardens and zoo.
The Botanical Gardens houses one of the most extensive collections of tropical flora in the Caribbean and are laid out with ponds, canals, kissing bridges and a bandstand. Over 100 species of Guyanese wildlife can be observed at the Zoo, including a wide variety of tropical fishes and birds.

The National Museum which contains a broad selection of our animal life and heritage should not be missed, nor the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which explains Amerindian history and life style.

The tour will include walking along the Avenues with an experienced guide who will give you the history, rumour and facts on Georgetown and its citizens. The group will be accompanied at all times by a vehicle, which will be used for travel between areas of interest. Along the way visitors will sample local exotic fruits, snacks and refreshments. During the tour there is always the opportunity to purchase that unusual gift or unique Guyanese handicraft, or for the daring the chance to delve into the gold and diamond market.

Upon conclusion of the tour transfer to the hotel located in the heart of the city. Guests will enjoy complimentary wireless Internet access, a courtyard for leisure and bar.
Overnight at Hotel
Meals: breakfast

Day 02 – 03: Iwokrama
You will leave early from Lethem for a 6 hour adventurous drive through an historic mining town and the rainforest to Iwokrama where you can get settled into your room.

Afterwards, you will depart for Turtle Mountain. A trip to Iwokrama is not complete without a hike to the summit of Turtle Mountain for a stunning view of the jungle vista. After breakfast, the journey starts with a peaceful and scenic half hour boat ride where you arrive at the base of the mountain. The trek to the 950 foot (290 meter) Turtle Mountain summit is mildly challenging and takes about 1 ½ – 2 hours, but the breathtaking views are more than worth the effort. Turtle Mountain provides a gorgeous view of the top of the rainforest canopy.

Along the way you may see a Harpy Eagle or the Greater Yellow-headed Vulture, King Vulture, Gray-headed, Double-toothed, and Plumbeous Kites and Black-faced Hawk. The trails may reveal Little Chachalaca, Marail Guan, Black Currassow, Squirrel and Black-bellied Cuckoos, Blue-crowned Mot Mot, Collared Puffbird, Pygmy, Antwrens and many more! You may also be rewarded with sightings of monkeys such as red howlers, wedge-capped capuchins and black spiders. After your return, enjoy another refreshing local lunch and an ice cold beverage.

As you return to the River Lodge, you may catch a glimpse of the elusive jaguar; South America’s largest cat. Spend a relaxing evening enjoying dinner overlooking the scenic vistas of the Essequibo River.

After a relaxing dinner, join us for a cruise on the Essequibo River through the black of night, lit only by a pale moon. Your guide shines the spotlight and there it is… the red-eye glare of the black caiman! Frequently and closely seen lying on the river banks, the worlds’ largest of the alligator family grows to 20 feet (6 meters) long. A boat ride at night may also introduce you to other nocturnal creatures such as tree boas, pacas, nightjars, and hula tree frogs.
Overnight at Iwokrama .

Day 04: Canopy Walkway tour and Surama
Depart at dawn to the Canopy walkway. The 505 foot (154 meter) state-of-the-art Iwokrama Canopy Walkway offers a totally unique experience in the region and envelopes you in the jungle’s mid-level canopy through a series of suspension bridges and decks from heights of up to 98 feet (30 meters).

You’ll have the chance to see birds like the Green Aracari, Scarlet Macaw, Guiana Toucanette or Channel-bill Toucan. Red Howler Monkeys may also be observed. Check out the epiphytes such orchids and bromeliads, and look for the amazing parasitic Ficus plant as it engulfs another tree.

There is also the Greenheart Tree, the Waramadan (endemic in Guyana only to the Iwokrama Forest) and the poisonous Aromata! Stop at teh harpy Eagle nesting site if it is still active, then by 4×4 to the Amerindian community of Surama. On arrival in Surama receive a welcome from a village counselor and settle into your accommodation. A local guide will escort you for a short walk on trails to observe the forest and bird life.

As the afternoon cools your guide will take you on a tour of the village. Visit the local school, medical center and church along with some of the village houses. Tonight enjoy an educational walk to observe wildlife and experience the mystique of the forest after dark.
Overnight at Surama .
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 05: Explore Burro Burro River
Rise before dawn for a walk across the savannah and then the gentle climb up Surama Mountain in the cool morning air. This is the best time to observe bird life along the trail. Breakfast will be served at a lookout point which affords incredible views across the village and savannah to the Pakaraima Mountains.

Return to the village for lunch and then take a three mile walk across the savannah and through the rain forest to the Burro Burro River. Your guides will then paddle you on the Burro Burro River for opportunities to observe giant river otters, tapir, tira, spider monkeys and many more species. Return to village for sunset and dinner.
Overnight at Surama .
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 06: Travel to Georgetown/ transfer to Sloth Island Nature resort
Depart after breakfast to Lethem for your flight to Georgetown. Upon arrival, pick up and transfer to the town of Parika, driving over the Harbour Bridge, the longest floating bridge in the world, which spans across the second largest river in Guyana—the Demerara River. Continue your journey by boat along the Essequibo River—Guyana’s largest River, being 20 miles wide at its widest point. Continue to Sloth Island and spend 1 night/2 days. Sloth Island has recently recorded 188 species of birds, including the Puff bird, manikins, Toucan, Parakeets as well as animals such as sloths and monkeys.
Overnight at Sloth Island Nature Resort
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 07: Sloth Island Nature Resort
This morning you will depart Sloth Island for your tour of the Mazaruni river, including sightseeing at Kyk-overal, the Old Dutch Fort, Mazaruni Prisons, Baracara Falls and an exciting ride along the rapids at Marshall Falls. Also enjoy a hike at Marshall before continuing to Sloth Island Nature reserve.

On this island you may encounter many species of birds and other wildlife. Over 188 species of birds including Mankins, parraketts, Tinamous, Rufescent Tiger Heron, Spix’s Guan, Green Ibis, Swallow-tailed Kite, Sunbittern, Red and Green Macaw, Red Dan Parrot, White-necked Jacobin, Rufous-throated Sapphire, Black -eared Fairy, Criimson Topaz, White-necked Puffbird, Pied Puffbird, Curve-billed Scythebill, Cayenne Jay, Blue Dacnis, Green Honeycreeper, Shortbilled Honeycreeper, Purple Honeycreeper, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Green Oropendola and more.
Overnight at Sloth Island Nature Resort
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 08: Depart Guyana
After Breakfast departure transfer to Airport to catch the flight for onward Journey.
Meals: breakfast

Day 01: Arrive Guyana
On arrival into Guyana you will be met and transferred from Cheddi Jagan International Airport to Georgetown and your hotel, the Kanuku Suites.

Kanuku Suites offers budget style accommodation in a quiet, residential community on the outskirts of central Georgetown. The ensuite rooms are air-conditioned and have high speed internet access. The hotel is a stones throw from the street that never sleeps: Sherriff Street, and within walking distance of restaurants, supermarkets, gift shops and the some of the most popular entertainment hot spots in the city. The city centre and commercial district are 5 minutes away by taxi.

After checking in you then enjoy the Mangrove Heritage Centre and Trail. The Mangrove Heritage Trail Tour starts at the Visitor Centre, located below the estate house of a former sugar plantation. With its hewn greenheart beams, pine floors and antique cast iron pillars it reflects the grandeur of an earlier era. The mangrove story is demonstrated in detail through permanent displays and in a hand-painted mural of the coastal birds. Delicious, natural products such as golden-coloured mangrove honey, and handmade beeswax candles, are all attractively packaged and available for sale at the centre.

Visitors move via traditional horse cart at a leisurely pace while friendly Nabaclis village cart men point out places of interest. The next stop is at Victoria Village, the first village purchased by former slaves who pooled their money to do so following Emancipation in 1839.

Turning towards the Atlantic Ocean, the scenery includes an old Dutch Koker [sluice] used to drain the agricultural lands along the low lying coastline and the serene temples of a Hindu Ashram that can be seen from across a lake. You are now in the heart of Guyana’s first mangrove reserve, owned and managed by the community. Along this coastal strip, you will see four different mangrove species and a wide wetland area, teeming with birdlife and tropical fish. If you’re in luck, you will see local fishermen beating the pond water to chase fish into their nets. In the middle of the wetland is a small island of lush, black mangroves where beekeepers produce the distinctive golden mangrove honey.

Along the trail, local tour guides point out the array of medicinal plants found in nature’s pharmacy and you will learn of the traditional remedies effectively used by Guyanese for generations. As the tour comes to a close, local drummers from Victoria Village will regale you with traditional folk songs (additional fee). The way back to the Visitor Centre, includes a stop at Ingrid’s roadside stand where you can purchase (own expense) a refreshing glass of Guyana’s legendary Demerara Gold fresh Cane juice and some delicious creole snacks such as Cassava-coated Eggballs, Channa, Fishcakes or Dhal Puri.

Day 02: Guyana Kaieteur Falls and Georgetown BD and snack on the Kaieteur Falls tour
After breakfast at the hotel you are transferred to Eugene F. Correia International Airport for a flight over the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers and hundreds of miles of unbroken tropical rainforest to land at Kaieteur Falls, the world’s highest free-falling waterfall.

Kaieteur, which was first seen by a European on April 29, 1870 is situated in the heart of Guyana on the Potaro River, a tributary of the Essequibo. The water of Kaieteur flows over a sandstone conglomerate tableland into a deep gorge – a drop of 741 feet or 5 times the height of Niagara Falls.

There are no other falls in the world with the magnitude of the sheer drop existing at Kaieteur. Amerindian legend of the Patamona tribe has it that Kai, one of the tribe’s chiefs (after whom the falls is named), committed self-sacrifice by canoeing himself over the falls. It was believed this would encourage the Great Spirit Makonaima to save the tribe from being destroyed by the savage Caribishi.

Kaieteur supports a unique microenvironment with Tank Bromeliads, the largest in the world, in which the tiny Golden frog spends its entire life and the rarely seen Guiana Cock- of-the-rock nesting close by. The lucky visitor may also see the famous flights of the Kaieteur Swifts or Makonaima Birds which nest under the vast shelf of rock carved over millions of years by the black water of the Potaro River. Re-board your plane for the return flight to Georgetown.

Every Sunday evening Georgetown’s Seawall comes alive as families, courting couples and friends promenade along the seawall, enjoying the Atlantic sea-breeze. The narrow strip becomes a hive of pop-up cocktail bars, street food vendors, blaring Caribbean music and parties spilling out of the trunks of cars. The Evening Seawall, bars and street food experience excursion takes you into the heart of the scene visiting various bars and enjoying street food, with your guide, who knows all the best places. You will also visit other local bars around the city, looking for what is popular, traditional or unusual. Every Sunday is a new experience, tailored around the group and the level of immersion into the local culture they wish to enjoy.

”Aagman” name is derived from India’s ancient Sanskrit script, which means ”ARRIVAL” or ”BEGINNING”. This restaurant was a startup by budding entrepreneurs Dr. Raj rishi Meena and Mrs. Neha Asthana Meena, who was inspired and fascinated by Guyanese people and culture. They intended to start the restaurant on 5th of May to commemorate the ”Arrival Day”, but finally Aagman Restaurant let its gates open on 26th May’2013 -Guyana Independence day.

Aagman Restaurant is fully air-conditioned with a well-stocked bar. The seating has been categorized into General, VIP and one of a kind ”Kohinoor Lounge”.

Aagman’s food philosophy is driven by a desire to present eclectic and expansive Indian repertoire, bursting with flavours and originality, as a multi-sensory dining experience. Experience the epicurean Mughlai Cuisine from the imperial kitchens if India. Enjoy the authentic flavours of their creations achieved through the use of the finest ingredients and cooking techniques, in elegant yet subtle interiors inspired by the spices … Relax, entertain or simply enjoy whilst their intuitively attentive staff enhance the dining experience…..Overnight at Kanuku Suites.

Day 03: Fly to Rupununi
Head off to the airport to board a flight for a journey over the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers and hundreds of miles of tropical rainforest to land in the Rupununi.

The Amerindian community of Surama is located in the heart of Guyana. The village is set in five square miles of savannah which is ringed by the forest-covered Pakaraima Mountains. Surama’s inhabitants are mainly from the Macushi tribe and still observe many of the traditional practices of their ancestors. The Surama Eco Lodge is owned and operated by the community. The rotating schedule allow for most of the villagers to get a chance to earn a salary. The Village Council as the Board of Directors decides how the profits are to be spent to benefit the entire village.

On arrival in Surama you will receive a warm welcome and settle into your accommodation at the lodge. A guide will escort you for a short walk on trails to observe the forest and bird life. As the afternoon cools, your guide will take you on a tour of the village. Visit the local school, medical centre and church along with some of the village houses. Tonight enjoy an educational walk to observe wildlife and experience the mystique of the forest after dark. Make sure to bring your flashlights to look for the eyeshine of the creatures of the night.

Overnight at Surama Eco-lodge.

Day 04: Surama Mountain Trek
Rise before dawn for a walk across the savannah and then climb up Surama Mountain for incredible views across the village and savannah to the Pakaraima Mountains. This is not a technical climb but can be arduous, especially after rain, and not for everyone. Your guides will happily offer alternative activities if you prefer not to do this climb.

Return to the lodge for lunch and then take a three-mile walk across the savannah and through the rainforest to the Burro Burro River. Your guides will then paddle you on the Burro Burro River for opportunities to observe Giant River Otters, Tapir, Tayra, Spider Monkeys and more species. Paddling down a small river in the middle of the Rainforest with Macaws and Toucans flying overhead, and various tropical sounds around you is a wonderful and unique experience. Return to the lodge for sunset.

Overnight at Surama Eco-lodge.

Day 05: Rupununi and Iwokrama Canopy Walkway
Enjoy dawn breaking across the rainforest. You can choose from a forest walk to look for wildlife and birds or relax around the lodge before breakfast and departure.

You then transfer from Surama through the rainforest to Corkwood in the Iwokrama Forest. At Corkwood, there is a comparatively short trail to hopefully see the amazingly brilliant Guianan Cock-of-the-rock. This trail is through pristine rainforest and the guides can explain how the plants are used for medicines and other uses.

Then continue the journey to Atta Rainforest Lodge (Iwokrama Atta Rainforest Camp), home of the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway.

The Iwokrama Canopy Walkway is situated near the southern boundary of the Iwokrama Reserve in central Guyana. The walkway has four suspension bridges leading to three platforms, the highest of which is over 30 metres above the ground, and these will allow great looks at a range of canopy species, many of which you would struggle to see well from the forest floor.

Another area where you will want to spend some time is the clearing around the lodge, as this is one of the best places to see another of Guyana’s “must see” birds, the Crimson Fruitcrow. This species is seen here on a reasonably regular basis, as it often comes to feed in some of the nearby trees. The clearing is also a reliable site for Black Curassow as there is a family party which has become habituated to people and regularly passes through the clearing.

Atta Rainforest Lodge (Iwokrama Atta Rainforest Camp) is 500 metres from the base of the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, offering comfortable private-room accommodation with ensuite bathrooms, delicious home-cooked meals, and traditional Amerindian hospitality. The communal building houses the bar, dining area and kitchen and is open sided with views across the gardens to the towering forest, which completely surrounds the lodge. Hammocks and outdoor benches enhance the lovely gardens which include a variety of heliconias that attract hummingbirds, close enough for the perfect photo.

Overnight at Iwokrama Atta Rainforest Camp.

Day 06:Rupununi

Before dawn you will return to the canopy where you can birdwatch easily and from this treetop vantage you can sometimes see Red Howler and Black Spider Monkeys.

Apart from the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway itself you can enjoy wildlife and birdwatching walks on the trails around the area. For those interested in botany many of the trails have the key tree species marked. Many bird species, stunning insects, noisy amphibians, and playful primates make the surrounding forest their home. Deer, tapir and agouti are also regular visitors to the lodge. Serious birders will want to search the undergrowth for the rarely seen Rufous-winged Ground-cuckoo.

As darkness falls on the canopy walkway, you may see the White-winged Potoo. Night walks are also possible and something interesting or new always seems to pop on to the scene including the occasional jaguar (Panthera Onca) along the transnational road near the lodge.

Overnight at Iwokrama Atta Rainforest Camp.

Day 07: Return to Georgetown
Welcome the dawn chorus from the canopy walkway and then return to the lodge for breakfast before departure. Depart from Fair View airstrip to Mahdia and then reboard flight for return journey over hundreds of miles of tropical rainforest to land at Eugene F. Correia International Airport.

Overnight at Kanuku Suites.

Day 08: Georgetown
This morning, make an early start to have breakfast at one of the local stands with our host, guide and culinary master, Chef Delven Adams who will guide you around Bourda Market, the largest of the four markets in Georgetown. You will start the tour at the Guyana Shop which has all the local products produced and packaged in Guyana, before heading over to the market where you will meet some of the vendors who Chef buys from daily.

You will visit the fish market and learn about the different kinds of fish that are found in Guyana’s unique coastal waters. You will then visit the meat section of the market. In season, you can find half drums of live crabs. Watch out for their pinchers or ”tengalas” as we call them.

Strolling through the haberdashery section is fun, as one can find anything you can think of from thread to bolts of all kinds of fabric. You will find many kinds of rice, many other dry goods like peas and beans and of course demerara sugar, from the golden crystals to the dark brown molasses-rich sugar that Guyanese like in their tea. There are also bush medicine stalls. If you have an ailment, ask the person selling about it and she will be glad to prescribe a “concoction” of different herbs. There are bottles of bush medicine for every kind of ailment.

You’ll then go outside to the large open-air market. All the tropical fruits and vegetables are here and you are encouraged to ask questions and learn the names and try the new and different tastes. There are many kinds of bananas from the tiny sweet fig to the very large red bananas. Try them all and the local pineapple which is long and white inside as opposed to the round yellow ones you may be used to. There are also many different seasonal small fruits that you should try such as seaside grapes, sapodillas, dunks, jamoon, and gineps. You will find things you have never seen before that are a part of the Guyanese culture. Do not try the small red ones. They may look like cherries but are actually very hot peppers.

Delven will make his purchases with your suggestions and input of what you would like to try. He will then head home to start preparing while you will head off on a tour of the city of Georgetown.

The city of Georgetown was designed largely by the Dutch and is laid out in a rectangular pattern with wide tree-lined avenues and irrigation canals that crisscross the city.

During your visit to Georgetown, there are a number of interesting sights that should not be missed: the most famous being St. George’s Cathedral. The Cathedral is one of the world’s tallest free-standing wooden buildings and was consecrated in 1892. The story of the cathedral is told on the interior on tablets and memorials of a historical and sentimental nature: it is the tale of the history of Guyana in general and of the Diocese in particular.

At the beginning of the Avenue of the Republic stands the Public Library housed in the Carnegie Building. Other historic buildings along this promenade are the Town Hall, a splendid example of Gothic architecture, and further along are the Victoria Law Courts and St. Andrews Kirk. St. Andrew’s is the oldest surviving structure of any church in Guyana.

The National Museum which contains a broad selection of our animal life, portrayed by taxidermy in very old glass cases should not be missed. The Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which explains the Amerindian history and lifestyle, and has a great collection of artefacts, is also a highlight of the tour.

The famous Stabroek Market, once described as a ”bizarre bazaar”, contains every conceivable item from household goods and gold jewellery to fresh meat and vegetables brought to town on the river daily. The clock tower can be seen for miles around and is a famous landmark.

You will take a break from the tour and transfer to Backyard Cafe for lunch.

Backyard Cafe is located in the West Ruimveldt area where your host, guide and culinary master, Chef will greet you as you enter.

This as the name suggests, is a backyard that Chef Delven has turned into an exclusive little hidden gem of a restaurant. Try not to bang your head on the passion fruit hanging overhead from the arbour. If there are ripe ones you will be welcomed to try a freshly picked one. His menu is whatever is in season at the time. It is a Guyanese fusion from all over the world.

If you are interested, Chef has a smoker and small fireside right outside and sometimes will prepare the fresh fish right there and you can certainly help him and learn his secrets. His garlic fish is out of this world! You can sit under the harbour and sip unique blends of juice or enjoy a cold Banks Beer, while taking in the sounds and smells of a delicious meal in the making in a secluded back yard in Georgetown.

Once he is ready, you will start eating your way through the courses. You will start with an appetizer, to an entree and end up with a dessert, which we may be hard pressed to fit in, but you will give it your best shot and remember to pace yourself as you will want to try it all.

You will then continue your city tour. No trip to Georgetown would be complete without a visit to the Botanical Gardens and zoo. The Botanical Gardens are laid out with ponds, canals, kissing bridges and bandstand. Their collection of palms, especially a unique branching one, is very special. The zoo has become a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre and over 100 species of Guyanese wildlife can be observed including a wide variety of birds.

The tour will include walking along the Avenues with an experienced guide who will give you the history, rumour and facts on Georgetown and its citizens. During the tour there is always the opportunity to purchase that unusual gift or unique Guyanese handicrafts.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Lunch

Day 09: Depart Guyana
Pickup and transfer to Cheddi Jagan International Airport for your departing flight.