Kanuku Mountains Protected Area

The Kanuku Mountains Protected Area is a vast and ecologically significant conservation region located in southern Guyana near the Rupununi Savannahs. Covering over 6,000 square kilometers, the landscape comprises undulating mountain ridges, foothills, forests, and savannahs, creating a diverse habitat for an extensive range of wildlife. The region is home to more than 620 bird species, including several rare and endemic species such as the Guiana Cock-of-the-rock and the Harpy Eagle, making it one of the top birding destinations in South America. Additionally, the area shelters jaguars, giant river otters, tapirs, and other threatened mammals. Indigenous peoples, primarily the Wapishana and Macushi communities, live in the region, contributing traditional knowledge to conservation efforts. Visitors to the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area can explore hiking trails that lead through tropical rainforest to scenic lookouts, partake in guided wildlife safaris, and experience the rich cultural heritage of the local communities. The protected area also emphasizes sustainable tourism, promoting eco-lodges and low-impact travel to minimize environmental disturbances. The Kanuku Mountains serve as a vital watershed separating the Essequibo and Rupununi river basins, further underlining its ecological importance. Visitor appeal is enhanced by the remote, pristine nature of the landscape, offering a wilderness experience unlike most other protected areas in the region. Although facilities remain limited to preserve the area's integrity, the Kanuku Mountains attract travelers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and meaningful cultural encounters.