The 3 Guianas – Fully Escorted Small Group Tour

Small Group Tours

SUMMARY

20 Days

Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, Panama

Did you know that Machu Picchu receives more visitors in one day than Guyana does in one year? But that is all sure to change, as this underrated gem is emerging as one of the hottest ecotourism destinations on the planet. In fact, around 80% of Guyana is covered in pristine tropical rainforests, and its lush interior, cascading waterfalls, and tropical wildlife rival the best nature destinations in the world.

Together, Guyana and neighbouring Suriname and French Guiana are commonly known as ‘The Three Guianas.’ Speaking English, Dutch, and French, respectively, these nations have a distinctly Caribbean culture, and each contains a cultural melange that has created diversity in everything from food and music to religion. But what draws most travellers to this remote corner of the globe is the exceptional wildlife and authentic indigenous cultures.

In 2024, Contours Travel will run our first fully escorted tour to The 3 Guianas. Starting and ending in Panama City, this comprehensive 20-day itinerary will give you the opportunity to discover the final frontier of South America. You will explore Guyana’s pristine, rainforested interior, including a visit to the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway and the incomparable Kaieteur Falls. You stand an excellent chance of viewing the elusive jaguar, as well as exotic species such as the Giant Anteater and beautiful Guianan-Cock-of-the-Rock. Then you will fly to Suriname, where you will experience the glorious melting pot of cultures evident in everything from cuisine to music, religion, and dance. From Suriname, you will travel overland to French Guiana and visit the notorious Devil’s Island (of Papillon fame!) and the Guiana Space Center at Kourou. Finally, return to Suriname and delve into the country’s interior to learn about Saramaccan culture and history and see more incredible wildlife.

Travel to these remote nations is normally very expensive, and group departures are extremely rare, so don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

HIGHLIGHTS

Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities include jaguars, Giant anteaters, capybaras, monkeys, and more.
Incredible birdlife – see the famous Guianan-Cock-of-the-Rock, Hoatzin, Toucans, and other colourful and unique species.
Stay at remote ecolodges, which support local indigenous communities through ecotourism.
Explore the canopy from the incredible Iwokrama Canopy Walkway.
Experience the jaw-dropping wonder of Kaieteur Falls.
Enjoy excellent and diverse cuisine thanks to Guyana and Suriname’s multicultural populations.
Visit a far-flung corner of the European Union when we cross into French Guiana, an overseas department of France.
Discover the notorious Devil’s Island, made famous by the book and film ‘Papillon.’
Venture into Suriname’s interior to learn about the Saramak Maroon culture, descendants of escaped enslaved Africans.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrive Panama City

Arrive Panama City and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2 Panama City

Experience the wonders of the Panama Canal as you traverse its iconic waterways and marvel at the engineering marvels that connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Today’s partial transit of the world famous canal includes lunch.

Day 3 Panama City/ Georgetown

Explore the hidden gems of Panama City on a guided tour that takes you off the beaten path. Experience the vibrant street life of Central Avenue, visit a local market, and indulge in delicious treats like Guarapo and Agua de Pipa. Discover the historic Café Coca-Cola and venture into Casco Antiguo, the colonial district, where you’ll admire charming streets and notable landmarks such as San José Church and the Presidential Palace. After lunch, journey to Old Panama or Panama Viejo, where you’ll explore the ruins and climb the ancient cathedral tower, providing a captivating contrast to the modern cityscape. Late this evening we fly to Georgetown.

Day 4 Georgetown

Arrive Georgetown and transfer to the hotel to rest for a few hours. Later this morning, enjoy a guided tour of the city including the local market. Later this evening, a special dinner is included with Guyana’s famous Singing Chef!

Day 5 Georgetown/ Rewa Ecolodge

Experience the awe-inspiring Kaieteur Falls in the heart of Guyana. With a drop of 226 meters, it’s a natural wonder five times the height of Niagara Falls. Witness the unique micro environment, spot rare wildlife, and be captivated by the majestic flights of the Kaieteur Swifts. Continue by charter flight to the Rupununi region and transfer to Rewa Ecolodge.

Day 6 Rewa Ecolodge

Rewa Ecolodge in Guyana is a nature lover’s paradise nestled in the heart of the Rupununi region. Surrounded by pristine rainforest and the mighty Rewa River, this eco-friendly lodge offers a unique and immersive experience. Stay in comfortable, eco-friendly cabins and wake up to the symphony of tropical birds and the gentle sounds of the river. Explore the rainforest on guided hikes, spot vibrant bird species, and encounter diverse wildlife such as jaguars, giant river otters, and howler monkeys. Discover the rich indigenous culture of the Makushi people through immersive community visits and cultural activities.

Day 7 Rewa Ecolodge/ Atta Rainforest Lodge

Today transfer by river and road to Atta Rainforest Lodge. Atta Rainforest Lodge is a hidden gem in Guyana’s Iwokrama Forest. Immerse yourself in the pristine rainforest with comfortable eco-friendly lodges. Explore the diverse wildlife on guided hikes and canopy walks. Engage with local communities, savor delicious meals, and create unforgettable memories in this untouched wilderness.

Day 8 Atta Rainforest Lodge

Embark on unforgettable adventures led by knowledgeable local guides. Explore the dense rainforest on guided hikes, where you can spot rare wildlife species such as jaguars, tapirs, and colorful bird species. Take canopy walks and witness the forest from a whole new perspective, suspended high above the ground.

Day 9 Atta Rainforest Lodge/ Karanambu Lodge

Transfer to Karanambu Lodge. Karanambu Ranch offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the wonders of Guyana’s savannahs, encounter rare wildlife, and support local conservation efforts. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking a truly authentic and immersive experience in this pristine corner of the world.

Day 10 Karanambu Lodge

Embark on exciting wildlife adventures led by knowledgeable local guides. Explore the pristine wetlands and waterways, where you can spot an incredible diversity of birdlife, including the majestic harpy eagle. Take guided boat trips along the Rupununi River and its tributaries, where you may encounter playful river otters, giant river turtles, and maybe even the elusive giant river otter.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Makushi community. Learn about their traditional way of life, their connection to the land, and their conservation efforts.

Day 11 Karanambu Lodge/ Georgetown

Today you will return by charter flight to Georgetown and your final night in Guyana.

Day 12 Georgetown/ Paramaribo

Day at leisure to relax or shop for souvenirs in downtown Georgetown. Later this afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paramaribo, Suriname.

Day 13 Paramaribo/ Cayenne

Today you will travel overland into French Guiana, a department of France and technically part of the European Union! Along the way you will have lunch. Enjoy a city tour of Cayenne on arrival and the rest of the evening at leisure.

Day 14 Cayenne/ Kourou

Today you will visit a site made famous by the book and subsequent film ‘Papillon’, the remote and notorious Devil’s Island, which is really a triangle of three islands – Îles du Salut, or the Salvation Islands. After the tour you will transfer by road to Kourou and stay overnight.

Day 15 Kourou/ Paramaribo

Enjoy a tour of the Guyana Space Centre this morning and then transfer to St Laurent. Here you will have a short visit to the now defunct transportation camp, and then return to Paramaribo by road.

Day 16 Paramaribo/ Danpaati River Lodge

Transfer by road and dugout canoe to the Danpaati River Lodge, an exceptionally remote and tranquil oasis in the heart of the rain forest. Here you will learn about the culture and heritage of the local Saramak Maroon population.

Day 17 Danpaati River Lodge

Today you will visit a local Saramak village and discover their traditions and culture which were brought by their descendants from West Africa. Explore the surrounding rainforest with your guide on foot or in dugout canoe. Later this evening there will be a cultural dance performance.

Day 18 Danpaati River Lodge/ Paramaribo

Transfer by road and river to Paramaribo. Enjoy a farewell dinner together with your Tour Leader and fellow adventurers.

Day 19 Paramaribo/ Panama City

Enjoy a guided tour of downtown Paramaribo and some free time to shop for some final souvenirs. Transfer to the airport and fly back to Panama City where you will stay overnight.