Guyana is a South American country that offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions for travelers who seek adventure and sustainability. From the majestic Kaieteur Falls to the diverse wildlife of the Amazon rainforest, Guyana has something for everyone who loves nature and adventure. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Guyana’s natural beauty and support local communities is to stay at an eco-lodge. But where should you stay to make the most of your eco-tourism experience?

These are accommodations that are designed to minimize environmental impact and maximize social and economic benefits for the surrounding areas. Eco-lodges often use renewable energy sources, recycle waste, conserve water, and source food locally. They also employ and train local staff, support conservation projects, and educate guests about the culture and ecology of the region.

Some of the most popular eco-lodges in Guyana are:

The Iwokrama River Lodge is located within the Iwokrama Forest, a protected reserve that spans nearly 1 million acres and provides a haven for a diverse array of wildlife. The lodge offers activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and visiting the nearby petroglyphs. You can also hike to the top of Turtle Mountain or take a canopy walkway to observe birds and monkeys.

The Surama Eco-Lodge is owned and operated by the Makushi people, an indigenous community that lives in the Rupununi Savannahs. The lodge offers comfortable cabins with hammocks and views of the Pakaraima Mountains. You can also enjoy cultural activities such as traditional music, dance, crafts, and storytelling. The lodge also organizes tours to nearby attractions such as Burro Burro River, Surama Mountain, and Rock View Lodge.

Rewa Eco-Lodge is situated at the confluence of the Rewa and Rupununi rivers, in an area that is home to many endangered species such as the giant otter, the arapaima, and the black caiman. The lodge offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms and balconies overlooking the river. You can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. They also support community development projects such as a women’s craft group, a cassava processing facility, and a school.

Another option for adventure seekers who want to get closer to nature is camping. Camping allows you to explore remote areas that are not accessible by road or boat, and experience the wilderness in its purest form. Camping also gives you more flexibility and independence in choosing your itinerary and activities. However, camping also requires more preparation and equipment, and you should always follow safety guidelines and respect the environment.

Some of the best places to camp in Guyana are:

Kaieteur National Park is home to the Kaieteur Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in the world. The park also boasts a rich biodiversity of plants and animals, including orchids, bromeliads, frogs, snakes, birds, and mammals. You can camp at the base of the falls or at one of the designated sites along the Potaro River. You can also hike to various viewpoints or take a scenic flight over the falls.

Shell Beach is located on the Atlantic coast of Guyana, near the border with Venezuela. It is famous for being a nesting site for four species of endangered sea turtles: leatherback, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley. You can camp on the beach or at one of the nearby villages and witness the amazing spectacle of turtles laying eggs or hatchlings emerging from the sand. You can also enjoy swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and birdwatching.

Kanuku Mountains are located in the southern part of Guyana, in the Rupununi Savannahs. The mountains are divided into two ranges: the eastern range (Pakaraima) and the western range (Kanuku). They are home to more than 400 species of birds and 150 species of mammals, including jaguars, tapirs, anteaters, monkeys, and deer. You can camp at various locations within or near the mountains and enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, or wildlife viewing.

If you have friends or family living in Guyana or know someone who does, you can also consider staying with them during your trip. Staying with friends or family can give you a more authentic and personal insight into Guyana’s culture and lifestyle. You can also save money on accommodation costs and enjoy home-cooked meals and local hospitality. However, you should also respect your hosts’ preferences and schedules, and offer to help out with chores or expenses.

In summary, Guyana is a country that offers a lot of opportunities for adventure eco-tourism. Whether you choose to stay at an eco-lodge, camp in the wild, or stay with friends or family, you can enjoy Guyana’s natural and cultural wonders in a responsible and sustainable way. Guyana is a destination that will challenge you, inspire you, and reward you with unforgettable memories.