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Rupununi Savanna
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The Rupununi Savanna in southern Guyana covers an area of approximately 13,000 square kilometers, extending to the border with Brazil. This ecologically diverse region is divided into northern and southern sections by the Kanuku Mountains and is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. Endangered species such as the giant otter, giant anteater, and harpy eagle live here in their natural habitat. The savanna is also home to the Wapishana and Macushi indigenous peoples, who have practiced sustainable cattle ranching and farming for generations. During the rainy season from May to August, the area often transforms into a vast wetland as the Rupununi and Takutu rivers overflow their banks. These seasonal floods are crucial for the ecosystem, enabling fish migration between the Amazon and Essequibo river basins. In recent history, the importance of controlled ecotourism has grown as a means to balance nature conservation with local economic development.
- Location: Guyana
- Nearby: Aishalton (36 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 24 | 27 | 35 | 110 | 275 | 281 | 252 | 176 | 80 | 59 | 50 | 46 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This incredibly vast, wild region is mostly reached via a very bumpy and adventurous off-road drive on a dusty, endless trail from Lethem, or alternatively by taking a tiny chartered flight to one of the minuscule regional dirt airstrips.
Best season
The extended dry season from September to April is absolutely by far the best for long overland travel, whereas the extreme wet season turns the flat landscape into a massive, deep wetland accessible almost exclusively only by small boats.
Terrain & paths
The unpredictable terrain dramatically shifts depending on the season from incredibly vast, extremely sun-baked golden grasslands heavily dotted with giant termite mounds, to very deeply flooded and highly difficult-to-pass wet savannas.
What to bring
Be absolutely sure to bring extremely versatile, light-colored clothing for completely unbearable heat, the strongest insect protection, an enormously wide-brimmed hat, specialized waterproof bags, and very solid outdoor shoes for the constantly and abruptly changing environment.
Parking
Free parking in this absolute wilderness is extremely informal and mostly restricted completely to the protected grounds of a few specialized eco-lodges or active, tough working ranches that provide only very basic but safe accommodation for adventurous travelers.
Safety
Longer trips deep into this extremely remote and unforgiving wilderness demand almost pedantically careful logistical planning; fiercely respect the harsh, merciless climate, always carry unlimited drinking water, and absolutely utilize the irreplaceable knowledge of local guides.
Time needed
Due to the truly extreme, fatiguing distances and the highly challenging travel logistics, interested visitors should imperatively plan to spend a minimum of four to seven full days to completely and safely immerse themselves in the magical world of the endless savanna.
Geography
Facts
- The savanna covers a total area of approximately 13,000 km².
- The Kanuku Mountains geographically divide the region into two halves.
- Over 1,500 species of plants have been documented in this ecosystem.
- The rainy season typically lasts from May through August.
- The area hosts one of the world's largest populations of giant otters.
- Cattle ranching was introduced in the 19th century by European settlers.
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 Rupununi Savanna (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Rupununi Savanna?
The dry season (October to April) is well-suited for wildlife sightings and off-road driving.
What animals can be seen in the savanna?
Giant anteaters, jaguars, and the rare Arapaima fish live in this region.
Is a 4WD vehicle required?
Yes, a robust 4WD vehicle is essential for the unpaved tracks of the savanna.
Is medical care available there?
Only basic clinics in Lethem; evacuation is required for emergencies.
Is the savanna inhabited?
Yes, it is home to many indigenous peoples such as the Makushi and Wapishana.
Rupununi Savanna: where is it located?
Rupununi Savanna is located in Guyana.
Rupununi Savanna: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Rupununi Savanna: why is it worth visiting?
The Rupununi Savanna in southern Guyana covers an area of approximately 13,000 square kilometers, extending to the border with Brazil.
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Nearby cities
Lethem
Lethem is an important administrative center and one of the most significant cities in Guyana's UT region.
Aishalton
Aishalton is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Annai
Annai is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Surama
Surama is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Rewa
An indigenous village at the confluence of the Rewa and Rupununi rivers, a pioneer in community-based eco-tourism.
Iwokrama Forest
A pristine rainforest conservation area known for its immense biodiversity and spectacular canopy walkway.
Gunns
Gunns is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
History & landmarks
Nature
Takutu River
A border river between Guyana and Brazil in the south of the country, flowing into the Rio Branco.
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Rewa River
A picturesque river in a pristine jungle environment, known for the Rewa Eco-Lodge located there.
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Rupununi River
A river flowing through the vast Rupununi savannahs in southwestern Guyana.
Essequibo River
The longest and most important river in Guyana, traversing the country from south to north.
More places
Rupununi Savannah Wildlife
A vast savannah landscape that is home to rare species such as the giant anteater and the jaguar.
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Kanuku Mountains
A mountain range dividing the Rupununi savannah into northern and southern regions, rich in biodiversity.
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Mount Wating
Mount Wating rises in the southern Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region, offering a rugged, rocky landscape.
Mapari Wilderness
A remote and inaccessible rainforest area in the Kanuku Mountains, characterized by rare animals and clear streams.
Caiman House Sanctuary
A field station in Yupukari that specializes in the conservation of the black caiman and involves guests in research.
Santa Fe Mega Farm
A huge agricultural project in the Rupununi region, growing rice, corn, and soybeans on a large scale in the dry savannah climate.
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Karanambu Wetlands
A famous lodge and wetland area in the Rupununi Savannah, known for its giant otter conservation efforts.
Upper Takutu Forest
A vast forest region in the deep south that acts as an ecological bridge between the Amazon forests and the Guiana Shield.