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Omai Gold Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Omai Gold Mine in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region is a landmark of Guyana's industrial mining history, having once been one of the largest gold mines in South America during the 1990s. Situated on the banks of the Essequibo River, Omai represents both the immense economic ambitions and the ecological challenges associated with large-scale open-pit mining. The mine's economic contribution was phenomenal; at its peak, it accounted for a significant percentage of Guyana's national GDP and was instrumental in shaping modern mining legislation. The facility's architecture was dominated by massive processing mills and deep open pits, which are now partially flooded. Historically, Omai is also remembered for a major environmental incident in 1995, which sparked a nationwide dialogue on industrial safety and conservation. The surrounding relief bears the visible marks of heavy industrial extraction within the reddish soils of the Guiana Shield. Despite the closure of original operations, there are ongoing efforts to revitalize the site through fresh exploration. Omai remains a potent reminder of the complexities involved in resource extraction within delicate rainforest ecosystems.

Location: Guyana
Nearby: Baganara Island (56 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	27	27	26	25	25	26	27	27	27	26
Rain mm	149	108	92	139	284	265	251	178	84	81	117	179

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Omai Gold Mine in the interior of Guyana is historically significant and one of the country's richest gold deposits. It plays a central role in the mining sector and national economy.

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Visiting

The mine itself is usually not accessible to the public as it is an active industrial facility. From outside the security zone, the surrounding landscape and facilities can be seen from a distance.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is on the surrounding hills along the access road, from where part of the open-pit mine is visible. Visitors should respect designated viewing areas and follow safety instructions.

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Local products

Gold and other mineral resources are primarily mined in this region. Direct products for travelers are not common, but handcrafted gold jewelry can be purchased in nearby settlements.

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Active season

Mining operations run year-round, with the dry season (roughly September to April) being the most productive period. Then most workers are on site and extraction reaches its peak.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with a trip along the Essequibo River or to Kaieteur National Park. The nearby town of Bartica also gives insights into life in the Guyanese interior.

Geography

Coordinates

5.43330, -58.74500

Facts

Omai's production was a cornerstone of Guyana's economic recovery program.
The 1995 cyanide spill was one of the largest environmental disasters in the region.
The mine features the massive Fennell and Wenot open pits.
Historical data from Omai is still used as a reference for Guyanese geology.
It served as a training ground for many of Guyana's modern mining engineers.
The location is strategically linked to the interior road network from Bartica.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mabura Hill13 km · NWExplore →

Potaro River18 km · SExplore →

Konawaruk Forest31 km · SWExplore →

Turtle Mountain Reserve41 km · WExplore →

Karouni Gold Mine43 km · SEExplore →

Mahdia46 km · SExplore →

Marshall Falls49 km · EExplore →

Ebini Mountain54 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Omai Gold Mine (1)

Omai Mine📍 landmark

Omai Mine is a gold mine in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Guyana. It is located on the banks of the Essequibo River.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Omai gold mine still in operation?

After a hiatus, there are new exploration and mining plans by Omai Gold Mines Corp.

Where is the mine located?

In the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region on the west bank of the Essequibo River.

Is entry to the site allowed?

No, it is a private industrial site with strict security controls.

What is its significance for Guyana?

It was once one of South America's largest gold mines and a major foreign exchange earner.

How is the gold mined?

Through large-scale open-pit mining using modern extraction technology.

Omai Gold Mine: where is it located?

Omai Gold Mine is located in Guyana.

Omai Gold Mine: when is the best time to visit?