The Iwokrama River Lodge – Find Out Why It Is Called The Green Heart Of Guyana!

November 27, 2018

The Iwokrama River Lodge is nestled on the west bank of the majestic Essequibo River in the heart of Guyana. This Lodge is surrounded by a vast tropical rainforest and consists of guest accommodation, a full service kitchen, restaurant, bar, two shops, and a boat dock.

How To Get To Iwokrama River Lodge?

Iwokrama is reached by road in less than two hours from the Annai airstrip, however charter flights will land at nearby Fairview Village. The Iwokrama canopy walkway is about an hour away, with Surama Village a bit farther. Traveling north from Iwokrama requires crossing the river at Kurupukari Falls where the barge operates daily from 6 am to 6pm.For the adventure seekers, travel by trail to Iwokrama Linden is also possible. 

Iwokrama River Lodge And Research Centre

The Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development was established to promote the conservation, sustainable and equitable utilization of tropical rainforest in a manner that leads to lasting ecological, economic and social benefits. The Centre is responsible for the conservation and management of 1,000,000 acres in the Iwokrama Forest for research and development purposes. Iwokrama is exceptional among conservation organizations because it joins with local people in every aspect of its work. From research to business, Iwokrama ensures local economic and social benefits from forest use and conservation.

Facilities At The Iwokrama River Lodge

  1. Free Wi-Fi and Parking: The entire building is covered by Wi-Fi internet and a computer with internet access is available in the tourism office. Free private parking is also available.
  2. Cabins: There are eight beautifully situated river facing cabins, each of which is spacious and beautifully designed, equipped with fans, bathroom, 24-hour electricity supplied by solar power and a wrap-around verandah with hammocks. The cabins are designed for two but with room for a third bed if required. From these comfortable cabins you can watch the sun go down, listen to the many local birds and other wildlife or simply relax in your hammock.
  3. Food: Overlooking the river, is the bar and the restaurant where, after an exciting day of discovery and exploration, you can enjoy traditional Guyanese cuisine.
  4. Shops: A gift shop and a small convenience shop selling cold drinks, snacks and general items such as toiletries that you may have left at home is in the lower level.
  5. Science and Conference: There are two science laboratories and a conference room with air conditioning and which is wired for digital equipment such as computers and LCD projectors.
  6. Lodge: The Lodge will provide you with a balcony, a dining area and private bathrooms in each room with a shower and free toiletries. You can enjoy an outdoor seating area, ironing facilities, and a view of the river.

Did You Know?

The Lodge is designed for scientific research and sustainable usage; it also serves as a comfortable launching point for those interested in deeper exploration of the surrounding Jungle reserve.

Activities At The Iwokrama River Lodge

  • Canopy Walkway
  • Indian Island House
  • Nocturnal Wildlife Spotting Cruise
  • Wildlife/Jaguar Spotting by Road
  • Bird Watching
  • Trail Walks

    Turtle Mountain Tour – https://iwokramariverlodge.com/

  • Amerindian Petroglyphs
  • Kurupukari Rapids
  • Canoeing
  • Turtle Mountain Hike – The most popular excursion is a climb to the top of nearby Turtle Mountain which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the rainforest. The head of the Turtle Mountain trail is a 15 minute boat ride from the main lodge. Soaking in the views of horizon-to-horizon canopy cover from atop Turtle Mountain is a classic, unforgettable experience.
  • Boat Ride – Boat trips up and down the Essequibo River – especially at dawn and sunset – never disappoint. During the right season there is probably no better place on earth to see Jaguar in the wild with 1 in 3 visitors viewing the big cats at dusk or dawn.

Tours:

  • Bulletwood Tour – Two days, one night. Includes: canopy walkway, nocturnal wildlife cruise, boat ride and hike to Turtle Mountain.
  • Greenheart Tour – Three days, two nights. Includes: canopy walkway, nocturnal wildlife cruise, boat ride and hike to Turtle Mountain, wildlife trails, Kurupukari rapids, Amerindian petroglyphs, boat trip to Indian House Island.
  • Purpleheart Tour – Four days, two nights. Includes: canopy walkway, nocturnal wildlife cruise, boat ride and hike to Turtle Mountain (overnight), guided trails, Kurupukari rapids, Amerindian petroglyphs, Fairview Village visit and boat trip to Indian Island House.

Tip: To Contact Iwokrama River Lodge

  • Office: 77 High Street, Kingston, Georgetown
  • Facility: Potaro/Siparuni, Region 8, Kurupukari
  • Tel: 225-1504/225-1186
  • Fax: 225-9199
  • [email protected]
  • www.iwokramariverlodge.org  
  • www.iwokrama.org

The Green Heart Of Guyana

The Iwokrama Rainforest is located in the geographical heart of Guyana. Words cannot explain how alluring and spectacular the rainforest is, especially when it is seen on top of Turtle Mountain, it is a sight so thrilling and exciting it can move one emotionally and get in touch with their inner sense of nature. Alex Arjoon, a local Guyanese adventurer and explorer, travelled to the top of the mountain, looked down and said in awe, “We don’t get to appreciate nature and conservation efforts until we actually experience the beauty that is seen”.

 

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Article Categories:
Nature · Places · Stay · Travel

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