The Iwokrama Canopy Walkway is a series of suspension bridges and decks up to 33 metres in height and 154 metres in length that pass through an excellent stretch of rainforest. There are four spacious platforms which gives visitors a unique perspective impossible to gain from the ground below. It provides a memorable view of the mid and canopy levels of the forest and affords excellent bird and wildlife viewing. Many canopy level specialist birds, including several Guiana Shield endemics, are commonly seen from the walkway, with the magnificent harpy eagle now being seen more regularly.
The Canopy Walkway | https://iwokramacanopywalkway.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/la072450.jpg
Origin Of The Canopy Walkway
The walkway is owned by Iwokrama International Centre and managed by Community and Tourism Services (CATS). This partnership brings together an NGO (Iwokrama), the indigenous Makushi community of Surama and two private sector companies: Rock View Lodge and Wilderness Explorers.
The walkway was funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). It cost US$180,000 and its unique construction allows trees to grow normally by using adjustable cables and braces throughout the support structure. It is constructed of aluminum and is suspended by steel cables and built to Canadian outdoor specifications and standards by Greenheart Construction Company of Canada.
Location Of The Canopy Walkway
The walkway is situated at Mauisparu, near the southern boundary of the Iwokrama Reserve in central Guyana. Surama Village and Rock View Lodge are about 45 minutes away by road, and Iwokrama River Lodge is about 75 minutes away. It is approximately 300km (190 mile) south of Georgetown and 130km (80 mile) north of Lethem on the Brazilian border.
How To Get To The Canopy Walkway
The most economical way to reach is by land; whether you take the public bus or you have your own private vehicle. From Georgetown there is a road running 340 km south to Lethem which passes through the Iwokrama Reserve. The walkway is a 20 minute walk, via private road, from that main north-south road. After heavy rains, the road can become a challenging route so flexibility and patience are key.
The quickest way to reach is by flying. You can fly into the Fair View Village airstrip (near Iwokrama), or Annai airstrip (near Rock View Lodge) then transfer by 4X4 vehicle to the location.
Local Wildlife At The Canopy Walkway
- Birdlife – At the Canopy Walkway many of the 840+ bird species in Guyana can be seen. The birds that are regularly seen from the canopy walkway and surrounding trails include crimson and purple-necked fruit crow, pompadour cotinga, green aracari, Guianan toucanet, painted parakeet, red-and-green macaw, white-winged potoo and (when fortunate) the awesome harpy eagle.
- Fauna – Mammals are more rarely observed but red howler, brown and weeping capuchin and even white-faced saki monkey can sometimes be seen. A staggering diversity of reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies are observable from the walkways and trails. The trans-national road to the Atta Lodge nearby is one of the best places for sightings of jaguars and ocelots in Guyana.
- Flora – Some of the notable tree species include the bullet wood tree, greenheart and waramadan (which is endemic to the forest).
- Monkeys, Sloths and Insects – Regular visitors to the canopy surrounding the walkway include at least four species of monkeys, two kinds of sloths, and a host of tropical insects that contribute to the biodiverse intensity of the Iwokrama rainforest.
Tip: This state-of-the-art walkway has been designed to adapt as the trees grow and it is the only tourist Canopy Walkway in the Guiana Shield.
Tips For Trips To The Canopy Walkway
- The day trip rate includes entry to the Canopy Walkway, and the services of a trained guide.
Birdwatchers on the Canopy Walkway
- The overnight rate includes entry to the Canopy Walkway, the services of a trained guide, accommodation, and 3 meals.
- Meals are available to visitors at day, but due to the remoteness of the location advance booking is strongly recommended.
- Residents of Region 8 and 9 may obtain a free pass to the Canopy Walkway from the NRDDB.
- Researchers and school groups get discounted rates.
Did You Know?
The Walkway is staffed by local Makushi Amerindians and other Guyanese naturalists.
The Iwokrama Canopy Walkway
The main aim for the walkway is to improve and expand the forest-based tourism product by providing a unique attraction that will enhance the marketability of the tourism product of the Iwokrama Forest and Guyana in general. A secondary aim of the walkway is to provide research access to the forest. Along with this, the breathtaking view that the Canopy Walkway has to offer is an experience that should not be missed. The amazing flora and fauna that can be seen on and around the walkway is astounding. Be sure to walk with your binoculars, your camera and even your drone. Be prepared to capture every moment of this wonderful experience amidst the trees, high above, feeling the fresh air and smelling the fresh greenery from all around. The Canopy Walkway is indeed a must see attraction within the Iwokrama Rainforest!
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Article References:
- https://iwokramacanopywalkway.com/
- https://iwokramacanopywalkway.com/walkway/
- https://iwokramacanopywalkway.com/rates/
- https://iwokramacanopywalkway.com/location/
- http://exploreguyana.org/portfolio-item/atta-rainforest-lodge/
