Plizio Visual Lab
Wakenaam Island
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Island
Weather…
Water temperature…
Wakenaam Island is a significant landmass of approximately 45 square kilometers located in the mouth of the Essequibo River. The name is derived from the Dutch word 'Wackenaam', meaning 'waiting name', a remnant of the Dutch settlement in the 17th century. The island is one of the most productive agricultural areas in Guyana, specializing in rice cultivation and coconut production. Its administrative center is Sans Souci, which anchors a community known for its ethnic and religious harmony. The terrain is notably flat and low-lying, requiring an extensive system of kokers (sluices) and canals to manage drainage and irrigation. Wakenaam is part of an archipelago in the Essequibo estuary that includes over 300 islands. It remains connected to the mainland via ferry services from Parika, as there are no bridges. The island's economy is deeply rooted in farming, maintaining a tranquil, rural atmosphere that has changed little over the decades.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: Julie Sooklall Memorial · Aurora Masjid · Meer-Zorg Vishwa Jyoti Mandir
- Nearby: Aurora (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 184 | 117 | 93 | 145 | 317 | 319 | 308 | 198 | 105 | 108 | 182 | 258 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The island is generally reached by public ferries or local water taxis operating regularly from the mainland shores near the wide Essequibo River mouth.
Best season
A visit is enjoyable year-round, though the drier months make walking and cycling along the unpaved agricultural roads much more pleasant for visitors.
Terrain & paths
The landscape is predominantly flat and intensely cultivated, featuring quiet agricultural roads and historical pathways with a peaceful rural atmosphere.
What to bring
Casual walking shoes, general sun protection, a wide-brimmed hat, and a camera to capture the historical Dutch remnants are usually entirely sufficient for a visit.
Parking
Visitors most often park their cars securely on the mainland at the ferry stelling, choosing to explore the relatively small island on foot or by rented bicycle.
Safety
The island is well known for its peaceful, welcoming environment; standard travel safety applies, alongside basic caution when walking near active rural roadways.
Time needed
Most travelers find that a half-day to a full day is completely sufficient to experience the quiet agricultural charm and remaining historical sites of the island.
Geography
Facts
- Name translates to 'Waiting Name' in Dutch
- Approximate area of 45 square kilometers
- Administrative hub is the village of Sans Souci
- Major center for rice and coconut farming
- Located in the Essequibo River estuary
- Accessible by ferry from the Parika stelling
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Wakenaam Island (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Wakenaam known for?
For rice farming, coconuts, and its relaxed, rural atmosphere.
How big is the island?
It is about 45 square kilometers in size and located in the Essequibo Delta.
How do you reach Wakenaam?
By ferry from Parika, which takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Are there cars there?
Yes, there are roads and vehicles, but bicycles and motorcycles are very popular.
What can a tourist do?
Explore the island by bike, watch birds, and enjoy local cuisine.
Wakenaam Island: where is it located?
Wakenaam Island is located in Guyana.
Wakenaam Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Julie Sooklall Memorial, Aurora Masjid, Meer-Zorg Vishwa Jyoti Mandir.
Wakenaam Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Wakenaam Island: why is it worth visiting?
Wakenaam Island is a significant landmass of approximately 45 square kilometers located in the mouth of the Essequibo River.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Guyana →
Nearby cities
Tuschen
Tuschen is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Zeelugt
Zeelugt is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Meten-Meer-Zorg
Meten-Meer-Zorg is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Uitvlugt
Uitvlugt is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
De Willem
De Willem is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Parika
Parika is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Pouderoyen
Pouderoyen is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Malgretout
Malgretout is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Goed Fortuin
Goed Fortuin is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
La Grange
La Grange is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Schoonord
Schoonord is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
🗺️
Vreed-en-Hoop
Vreed-en-Hoop is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Leonora
Leonora is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Nismes
Nismes is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Vreed-en-Rust
Vreed-en-Rust is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
History & landmarks
Court of Policy
A historic brick building next to Fort Zeelandia that served as a church, courthouse, and seat of government.
🗺️
Fort Zeelandia
The ruins of an old Dutch fortress on Fort Island along the Essequibo River.
🗺️
Marshall Falls
An impressive cascade on the Mazaruni River, surrounded by dense rainforest and natural beauty.
More places
🗺️
Wakenaam Rice Farms
Green rice fields that cover most of the island of Wakenaam in the Essequibo River and dominate the local economy.
Hogg Island
The largest of the numerous islands in the Essequibo delta, known for agriculture and rice farming.
Court of Policy Hall
The oldest non-military building in Guyana, which once served as a Dutch court and place of worship.
🗺️
Fort Zeelandia
A historical fortress on Fort Island, built by the Dutch in 1743 to defend the Essequibo River.
Leguan Island
A small island in the Essequibo River delta, which takes its name from the many iguanas living there.
🗺️
Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase
A newly constructed base to support the rapidly growing oil and gas industry.
Joe Vieira Park
A relaxed recreational park on the western bank of the Demerara, often used for family barbecues, cricket, and children's parties.
🗺️
Barama Timber Plant
One of the largest forestry and timber processing companies in Guyana.