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• South America

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Wanderlust Adventures GY

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Guyana Layover Tour

Guyana's City Center Tour with Lunch

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Wanderlust Adventures GY - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• South America
• French Guiana

Guyana, Suriname & French Guiana Land of Many Waters TOURCODE: GY1

Duration: 12 Days

Activity Level: 2

When To Go: Feb, Nov

Countries Visited: 3

Arrive In / Depart From: Georgetown / Paramaribo

Max Group Size: 18

Tour Style: Cultural

Price From:

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

• Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
• Authentic local experiences with lots of inclusions.

On our Guyana, Suriname & French Guiana tour, sandy beaches, tropical climate and friendly people all work their way into defining this area of the continent.

When we venture to the only English-speaking country in South America, Guyana, and into its capital, Georgetown, we see the past clearly shine through the numerous colonial buildings and the gardens that surround them.

During this trip, we will have a chance to see an outstanding array of birds, from the 200-plus species in the vast rainforest.

While strolling down the Central Market of Paramaribo, Suriname, be sure to taste some of the delicious tropical fruits unique to the area.

A major highlight is our remote wilderness experience at Kabalebo, located in a beautiful and pristine corner of Suriname.

Prices below are per person , twin-sharing costs in Canadian Dollars (CAD) . Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here .

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

The above prices are subject to an additional $68 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.

Optional Single Supplement: $1400 CAD (number of singles limited). This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $700 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.

Day 1 Arrival in Georgetown Today we arrive in Georgetown, the capital of Guyana and one of South America's lesser-known locations. Named after King George III, Guyana's capital city lies on the Atlantic coast, on the east bank of Demerara River estuary. Today the city is protected by a sea wall and an elaborate drainage system designed by the Dutch. Called the garden city due to its wide tree lined avenues, this city is a little piece of the colonial past in a modern world. Built mostly of wood, Georgetown is an architectural wonder with many of its buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Overnight in Georgetown. Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Georgetown: City Tour Today we will enjoy a city tour of Georgetown's principal sites. Here the architecture of centuries gone by will surely provide for some scenic views. We start at the Kingston Seawall and then drive to the historical center to view St George's Cathedral, one of the world's tallest free standing wooden buildings. We will also see the Parliament building, completed in 1833, as well as the simple but impressive St. Andrews Kirk. We also see the Victorian Law Courts and Town Hall, as well as the historic Stabroek Market - one of the city's most prominent landmarks. Nearby is the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology where we make a stop. After a break for lunch we will tour the Guyana National Museum. The Castellani House is a gorgeous wooden building erected in 1877. Today this building is home to the National Art Gallery as well as rotating art exhibits by many local artists. Overnight in Georgetown. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 3 Georgetown - Fly to Kaieteur Falls - Riverside Resort Today we depart Georgetown and travel to Kaieteur Falls by plane (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours). We will witness Guyana's astonishing Kaieteur Falls, where the Potaro River drops drastically over a precipice into the depths of a gorge 224 m (741 feet) below. This is the highest 'single-drop' waterfall in the world, and one of the most impressive and beautiful sights in the country. Guyana's ‘trademark feature’ produces breathtaking rainbows across the gorge (hopefully the weather will be clear!). Our aircraft will circle the falls, giving views to those sitting on both sides of the plane, before landing nearby. From here we will walk through a tropical gorge, stopping at a number of viewpoints along the way. There are many legends of Kaieteur, but the most enduring tells of a great old chief of the Patamona tribe whose name was Kaie. To save his people from being destroyed by the savage Caribishi, Kaie sacrificed himself to the Makonaima, the Great Spirit, by canoeing himself over the falls. * For our time here (and later at Kabalebo in Suriname), please pack a smaller collapsible overnight bag due to the nature of light aircraft used to/from these lodges. Your larger baggage will be securely stored for you. Overnight at our jungle resort. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 Sloth Island - Georgetown This morning we travel by boat to to Sloth Island on the Essequibo River for some wildlife spotting and lunch. We will stop at Fort Zeelandia where we visit the fort and museum before continuing to Georgetown for our overnight. NOTE: Today we include breakfast and lunch; dinner on your own this evening. Overnight in Georgetown. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 Georgetown, Guyana - Fly to Paramaribo, Suriname - Kabalebo This morning we fly from Georgetown to Paramaribo, Suriname. Suriname is the smallest country in South America, with a population of just over half a million people. Set in a natural tropical wilderness, Suriname offers a splendid combination of the Caribbean and South America, with fascinating reminders of a sometimes turbulent past. Dominated by mighty rivers that provide essential highways into the rainforest and jungles of the interior, much of Suriname remains virtually untouched. Paramaribo is a former Dutch colonial town from the 17th and 18th centuries planted on the northern coast of tropical South America. The original and highly characteristic street plan of the historic centre remains intact. Here one finds black-and-white colonial Dutch buildings lining grassy squares, and in 2002 the historical inner city was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival in Paramaribo we will connect with our flight to the Kabalebo Nature Resort, a beautiful lodge lying in one of the most beautiful areas of Suriname, deep in the untouched (and malaria free) Amazon rainforest. Accessible only by air, this is an area of pristine uninhabited Amazon jungle in the western part of Suriname. The precise spot can be narrowed down to the area of the Bakhuys Mountain at the Kabalebo River. Within a range of hundreds of kilometers one finds nothing except for the flora and fauna of the splendid Amazon rainforest. Here playful monkeys leap through the treetops, colourful parrots glide above your head and unusual fish leap and quickly swim away down a secluded creek. The name “Kabalebo” in the language of the Caraib Amerindians means, “arch in the river”. Though wildlife sightings are commonplace, excursions into the jungle will increase your chances of seeing more exotic creatures. Our schedule over the next 3 days is kept flexible on purpose, and will be adjusted to meet the interests of the group. Our planned itinerary for today will be to enjoy lunch upon arrival. After lunch we will enjoy a walk through the forest on one of the trails to the BWKW rapids. After the easy hike you will have the opportunity to refresh in the river or relax on its banks. In the afternoon we will drift by boat (dugout canoe) back to the lodge. While drifting back you can enjoy the wonderful nature surrounding you. In the evening diner will be served, and you will be able to enjoy one of the delicious Surinamese dishes that the cook/chef has prepared. Overnight at Kabalebo Jungle Resort. Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 Kabalebo Nature Resort This truly is one of the most beautiful pieces of jungle in Suriname. Because no people live in the wide surroundings, pure untouched nature is found here. The resort lies in the middle of the Amazon jungle, and exotic tropical animals will surround you. During our time at the resort you will have the opportunity to enjoy jungle walks or hikes, during which we will become acquainted with the extensive flora and fauna of the Amazon forest. You will be introduced to the numerous inhabitants of the rainforest. Our guides will tell us about the animals making their home in this area and the medicinal qualities of the plants and jungle flowers. Because of the unique location and biodiversity, nature lovers will certainly have the time of their lives. This region is also a true birders paradise, and the bird count at the property includes more than 250 different species. The balance of the day will be free for activities, including short walks / nature hikes/wildlife viewing/boat trips/and more. Overnight at Kabalebo Nature Resort. Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 Kabalebo Nature Resort Today we continue to enjoy the resort. Perhaps today we will enjoy another interesting forest walk, or drift downstream in a canoe. The resort has miles of landscaped paths where you can simply wander and enjoy the best of what nature has to offer. Some of the birds that you might encounter include the Blue headed Parrot, Black Skimmer, Aracaris and the Buff Throated Saltator. Overnight at Kabalebo Nature Resort. Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 Kabalebo Nature Resort - Fly to Paramaribo, Suriname - Kourou This morning we will depart by charter flight back to Paramaribo. On arrival we transfer to the Albina River where we board a boat and cross over to French Guiana. We then proceed by road to Kourou. This overseas département of France is situated on the northeastern coast of South America, bounded by Brazil to the south and east, Suriname to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the northeast. Here the Kourou River empties into the Atlantic Ocean, and at the mouth of this river sits the town, ringed by four hills. Not much is known of the pre-colonial era, but we do know that mostly Kalina or Galibi peoples populated the area before the arrival of the French in the late 17th century. Overnight in Kourou. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9 Kourou: Ariane Space Centre & Cayenne This morning we travel a short distance to the Ariane Space Center where we enjoy a guided tour.* Ariane rockets, whose path out over the Atlantic is tracked from Devil's Island, have put two-thirds of all Western satellites into space. This base is by far the biggest source of income for French Guiana, whose only other cash comes from fruit grown in jungle plantations by Mhong refugees from Indo-Chinese wars. Launch schedules at the Center Spatiale Guyanaise (Guyana Space Center) are a closely-held secret so our schedule today may be amended on short notice. The usual visit here includes a bus tour that criss-crosses the center's mammoth facility, including stops at various assembly buildings and control centers. This afternoon we have a tour of Cayenne, French Guiana's atmospheric capital and the chief port. French Guiana’s cultural milieu reflects the diverse background of the resident ethnic communities. Indigenous and African crafts, customs, and arts predominate among their respective peoples. A distinctive mixed-Creole culture is dominant in the urban areas, highlighted by brilliantly coloured and distinctively patterned costumes. Avenue Général de Gaulle is the main commercial street in the center. At the east end of the avenue near the coast is the Place des Palmistes and the Place de Grenoble. Most of the city’s official buildings are located in this area, including the Hôtel de Ville (the town hall) built by Jesuits in the 1890s, the Post Office, and the Préfecture. Other points of interest include the Canal Laussat and the Botanical Gardens. In the center of town we also find the Musee Departamental, featuring exhibits on indigenous peoples and the notorious penal settlements on Devil's Island. Lively cafes and market stalls are to be found in the Place des Palmistes. * As our tour dates are confirmed and published well before rocket launch schedules (which tend to be rather fluid and last minute) are known, it is possible that a launch could impact our plans insofar as security lockdowns could curtail or cancel our visit. Though unlikely, if this happens to us, we will substitute other sightseeing in the area. Overnight in Kourou. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 Kourou & Iles du Salut Today we enjoy a full-day excursion to the former penal colony on the Iles du Salut (Isles of Salvation). Commonly referred to collectively as "Devil's Island," this is really a triangle of three islands situated seven miles off the coast of Kourou. This famous (or infamous) archipelago lies about an hour out into the Caribbean and consists of: Ile Royale, Ile St Joseph and Devil's Island (Ile du Diable - inaccessible for visitation). The islands played a central role in French history as far back as 1792 when they were first employed as a transit point, first for explorers, then slaves and later for political prisoners. It was here that more than 30,000 French convicts died in horrendous prisons. Those who were sent to the islands were traitors or convicts who had proved unbreakable in the prison camps of the mainland colony. Today the islands are attractive and lush, with their flights of stone-cut steps under the palms leading to superb views of the blue sea, and the church framed in scented frangipani trees. Turtles swim in the channel below Ile Royale where once sharks waited for prisoners' bodies to be thrown into the sea. The cells, guards' quarters and administration blocks on Ile Royale have been converted into a hotel and restaurant, and there's an excellent small museum that recounts the history of the place. There's a small church, the remains of a hospital, and a cemetery with memorials to the prison staff. We later return by catamaran to Kourou. Overnight in Kourou. Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 Kourou, French Guiana - Paramaribo, Suriname This morning we travel by road back to Paramaribo (though it may seem logical to fly onward from Cayenne, the lack of and high-changeability of flights, and the inconvenience of the available schedules--mostly through Paris!--result in this overland route). On arrival we have a city tour. At the central market you can find tropical fruit and vegetables galore, and here one can meet a cross-section of Suriname's ethnically diverse population. We will stop at the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, standing in the centre of town next to the largest mosque in the Caribbean. As we explore part of the city on foot we will witness the diversity of Paramaribo, including the monuments and historical buildings in and around the city center that were added to the World Heritage List by UNESCO. The Palm Garden, which is behind the Presidential Palace, is famous for its stately palm trees, and the Waterfront (Independence Square) is the centre of activity during national holidays. Here one often finds several food stands! We will see the historic Fort Zeelandia, which has been turned into a museum highlighting Suriname's history and arts. Overnight in Paramaribo. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12 Departure Departure from Paramaribo. BON VOYAGE! Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Inclusions Breakfast and dinner daily (hotels and local restaurants). All transport (including internal flights) accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as "visited" in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters. Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book their extra hotel nights through us.

Exclusions International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuity, some lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), departure taxes, domestic and international air taxes (if applicable). Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on optional meal costs, shopping, packing, advance reading, and locally paid departure taxes.

Seasonality and Weather This tour occurs twice a year, outside hurricane season and during the drier/slightly cooler and less humid season (Nov-May). That said you must be prepared for sticky heat at this destination at any time of year.

Transport and Travel Conditions Local land transport provided by air-conditioned bus, minibus, and/or taxi. Kaieteur Falls and Kabalebo flights via light charter aircraft. For our nights at Kabalebo, you must bring a smaller bag max weight 7 kg/15 lbs due to the nature of the light aircraft used. Larger bags will be kept securely during this time. This tour is not strenuous per se, but our "2" level rating refers to the ambitious nature of the itinerary, the remote locations covered, the tropical heat/humidity, and several activities (ie jungle walks) that one must be prepared for in order to fully enjoy all elements of this trip. One must also be mindful of the nature of the places we visit within this region, one of the least-visited corners of this continent. Tourist-related infrastructure, facilities, and service levels are not well-developed, and you will no doubt experience some "rough edges" and things that don't work as efficiently as one would expect or hope. While every effort is made to ensure that you get the most out of your experience, comfortably and safely, in these three out-of-the-way places, one must pack one's sense of adventure enjoy the unique attributes of each destination for what they are.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form .

Accommodation Well-located, air-conditioned, mid-range (3 & 4 star) hotels/resorts with en suite toilet and bath throughout (probably shower only - no bathtub). Single rooms are limited in number and likely smaller than doubles. Porter service is usually available though you should be independent with your luggage, especially at airports and ferries. Please note that Wifi, though available in theory, may be weak or suffer from outages. Please note that internet is a chargeable service at Kabalebo owing to the cost of the satellite uplink. Maximum 3 single rooms available (additional singles may be available upon request) Please click on "Map & Hotels" for more details.

Staff and Support Tour Leader, driver/s, and local step on guides.

Group Size Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)

Regions visited: South America Countries visited: Guyana ; Suriname and French Guiana

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

Reservation Summary

Have Questions? Call us: 1-800-843-2678

The Weekend or One Week Getaway to Piraiba Lodge, Iwokrama Canopy Walkway and Lethem features the unique landscape of the Southern and Central Regions of Guyana, with its tropical rainforest, wetlands and Savannahs. Highlights-Birding, Wildlife, Nature, Hiking, Canoeing, Swimming, Fishing and More! -

592-227-4713, 673-0039, 626-9033

Mikel Plaza, 53 Pere Street, Kitty

Experience the Amazon & Beyond.

Our most popular adventures.

Whether it is the towering tepui of Mt Roraima in Venezuela, untamed Amazon Region of Brazil, pristine rainforests of Guyana, rich cultural heritage of Suriname or the marine turtle inhabited coastline of French Guiana, Adventure Guianas encourages you to “Experience the Amazon and Beyond”

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You got a destination in mind, we got an adventure, explore the amazon and beyond for yourself.

Pristine rainforests of Guyana and undiscovered Giants of El Dorado...

04. Venezuela

Towering tepui of Mt Roraima in Venezuela...

02. Suriname

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03. French Guiana

The marine turtle inhabited coastline of French Guiana...

06. South America

Adventure Guianas encourages you to “Experience the Amazon and Beyond”

The Getaway Adventure

The perfect getaway – tours to piraiba lodge and lethem.

The Weekend or One Week Getaway to Piraiba Lodge, Iwokrama Canopy Walkway and Lethem features the unique landscape of the Southern and Central Regions of Guyana, with its tropical rainforest, wetlands and Savannahs. Highlights-Birding, Wildlife, Nature, Hiking, Canoeing, Swimming, Fishing and More!

1. The Weekend Special to Piraiba Lodge and Iwokrama Canopy Walkway – Read More… 2. The Weekend Special to Piraiba Lodge – Read More…

• Experiences

We know the rigors of travel planning after decades of experience. Using our vast network your trip can be a spectacular one! We want you to enjoy the uniqueness, charm and allure of Guyana catering to your distinctive style.  Whether you're looking for accommodations, guided tours, immersive experiences, transportation or the whole package, we'll help you figure out the details by working directly with local companies and residents. 

Meet the Team

Lakshmi mangal-lekhraj.

I founded Wanderlust Guyana because my love for this land stems from traversing the three regions since childhood and an affinity to learn about people and their culture during my travels. Most importantly, there's always curiosity and excitement to see pictures and listen to my family's Guyanese experiences. and an expression of wishing to have the same. 

 Guyana offers a once in a lifetime opportunity for ecotourism experiences and an array of budget-friendly adventures, excursions and entertainment.  We'll piece the details together so that you can just focus on creating beautiful travel memories .

Sunil Lekhraj

I'm the finance guy and stay informed of the latest developments to give you a smooth experience. I'm always networking and promoting Guyana as undiscovered travel gem. My goal is not just to support my wife to realize her dream of having a successful business but equally to put Guyana on the list of top worldwide travel destinations. 

646 369 4821

[email protected]

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Matador Original Series

Giant Wildlife, Waterfalls, and a Canopy Walkway: 5 Epic Adventures in Guyana (Plus Where to Eat After)

G uyana goes by many names. One of the only countries in the Caribbean Community that’s not located in the Caribbean Sea, Guyana is often referred to as the “Land of Many Waters” owing to the numerous rivers that flow through its perch on South America’s North Atlantic coast. It’s also called the “Land of Giants” — an abundance of water and minimal human interference have preserved Guyana as a fertile, untapped country where large flora and fauna thrive.

In Guyana, you’re also likely to hear the motto “one people, one nation, one destiny.” While Guyanese culture draws influences from an array of backgrounds — Indigenous, African, Caribbean, and Asian among them — this national motto reflects the country’s proud and collective spirit.

To me, Guyana is a home away from home, a place where I have family and have visited many times. Yet each visit brings new experiences, from rainforest explorations and wildlife encounters to delicious bites of Guyanese cuisine. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to dig a little deeper, these are some of the must-do experiences that showcase Guyana’s beautiful outdoors and culture.

Outdoor and wildlife adventures in Guyana

Kaieteur falls.

Merissa Baichulall /Shutterstock

A few years go, Guyanese-British Black Panther actress Letitia Wright posted a picture of herself in front of the most alluring waterfall I’ve ever seen. While I knew the photo was taken in Guyana, I struggled to conceptualize where in my home country this waterfall could possibly be located. Then, I visited Kaieteur National Park.

After taking a chartered flight from the interior to the landing of Kaieteur Falls, I was floored to realize that the mesmerizing attraction had eluded me for so long. After all, it’s the longest single-drop waterfall in the world, running an impressive 741 feet. Visitors to the national park where the waterfall is located will also be impressed by the native flora and fauna — various carnivorous plants, massive tank bromeliads, and a poisonous golden frog species included.

The park is committed to maintaining its ecological integrity. While everyone is welcome to admire the spectacle, my tour guide reminded my group of something that every traveler to Kaieteur Falls should remember — the only thing you can leave with are your memories.

Kaieteur Falls: Kaieteur National Park, Guyana

Caiman House Field Station

Ariel Miller52 /Shutterstock

Most of us grow up learning about reptiles such as alligators and crocodiles. Fewer of us learn about caimans, the largest members of the alligator family. Native to the marshy lands of Central and South America, caimans are among the many animals that explain Guyana’s nickname as the “Land of Giants.” But even though I’ve visited Guyana many times, visiting the Caiman House Field Station was the first time I ever learned about and encountered the animal.

Since 2005, the Indigenous team at Caiman House has been conducting a field study on black caimans, the largest caiman species. To get to the Caiman House, my group took a 1.25-hour flight on a small plane to Guyana’s interior, then drove a few hours on a red dirt road to the Yupukari Village in the Central Rupununi. On arrival, we were escorted to a boat where we joined the team in finding a caiman. The team then transferred the animal to a sandbank where it was weighed, measured, sexed, and released back into its natural habitat.

For animal lovers, getting to participate in a tagging experience through the Caiman House is a special opportunity to connect with Guyana’s wildlife beneficially and responsibly.

Caiman House Field Station : MJ6W+FVJ, Yupukari, Guyana

Karanambu Lodge

Conor Phelan /Shutterstock

The last thing I expected to see in the middle of the Rupununi Savannah was an anteater stopping to strike a pose for our group before retreating to find a place to sleep for the morning. My group’s journey into the savannah started at 4:45 AM when we hopped in one of Karanambu Lodge’s pick-up trucks and headed for the grasslands. Our goal was to track down a horse-riding cowboy who was tracking a six-foot anteater that had just finished eating for the day. Like the caiman, the anteater is an animal that gives Guyana its “Land of Giants” nickname.

While seeing an anteater in its natural habitat was undoubtedly the star of this experience, being awake for the early morning sunrise stole some of the focus from the excursion (in the best way possible).

Karanambu Lodge : Yupukari, Guyana

Iwokrama Canopy Walkway

Gail Johnson /Shutterstock

Another experience requiring a pre-dawn wake-up call is the captivating Canopy Walkway located in the middle of the Iwokrama Forest. Along the walkway, my group learned about various tree species, including purpleheart and greenheart trees (which is said to be able to help stave off malaria). After following the trail and hiking a few stairs, we arrived at the Canopy Walkway as dozens of birds welcomed us with their distinct calls. Although we didn’t spot them during our visit, black spider monkeys and red howler monkeys also inhabit the forest.

Iwokrama Canopy Walkway : Iwokrama Forest Reserve Lethem to Georgetown Road Mauisparu, Guyana

Guianan cock-of-the-rock trek

Wang LiQiang /Shutterstock

It’s safe to say that I started this trip as a non-birder and ended it feeling as though I was at least an intermediate birder. Part of this is attributed to my group’s trek up a trail where we sat in silence for 20 minutes awaiting the famous Guianan cock-of-the-rock, a cotinga species that’s endemic to Guyana. The females of the unique bird species nest their eggs on the sides of large rocks while the bright orange males flaunt their colorful feathers through the trees of the forest. Visitors to Guyana are most likely to spot cocks-of-the-rock in lowland rainforest areas near the rock formations where they nest their eggs.

Where to eat and drink in Guyana

Waikin ranch.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Waikin Ranch (@waikinranch)

Waikin Ranch is a farm and cattle ranch in Lethem that doubles as an excellent lunch spot. If you fly into the Lethem Airport, the ranch is roughly 30 minutes away by car. Covering 33,000 acres, Waikin epitomizes the farm-to-table ethos in its culinary offerings — 75 percent of the food you’ll enjoy comes directly from the family-owned farm. Waikin Ranch grows many of Guyana’s staple crops, including okra, plantain, callaloo (a leafy green), bora (a type of long bean), and pumpkin. The ranch is particularly famous for its crispy okra — with a well-balanced batter-to-okra ratio, the recipe avoids the questionable texture that puts some eaters off okra.

Waikin Ranch : Upper Takatu & Ireng River, Rupununi, Lethem, Guyana

Fresh Restaurant

Fresh is a more recent, modern-local restaurant in Guyana’s capital city, Georgetown, that’s co-owned by Michelle Howard. An Afro-Guyanese chef who recently re-migrated to Guyana, Howard uses local produce to blend traditional Guyanese flavors with a globally influenced twist.

Fresh Restaurant: RR9Q+P5M, Carmichael St, Georgetown, Guyana

Nigel’s Guinness Bar

Guyana’s coast is filled with numerous family-owned shops and street vendors who showcase the country’s most popular breakfast, lunch, and dinner cuisines. One of these street food options is Nigel’s Guiness Bar where you have the option to enjoy the beautiful warm climate with its outdoor seating. As a breakfast stop during your visit, a few of the must have meals include the bake and saltfish, boiled dumplings, ground provisions, and sweet plantains.

Nigel’s Guiness Bar: QVX5+XM4, Durban St, Georgetown, Guyana

Bourda Market

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Delven Adams (@backyardcafe.gy)

I’ve visited local markets in Georgetown for years, as my grandmother and I often travel from her village to pick up ingredients for that day’s meals. But on a market tour led by culinary master and chef Delven Adams allowed me to gain insights into the historical backgrounds and stories of the market sellers that I’d never experienced before. During the tour, you’ll taste local produce such as pineapple and papaya at various stands, encounter the holistic “bush” medicine stalls, and (if you’re lucky) taste a shot of the local rum, El Dorado — just be sure to carry a hat and water to get you through the journey under the hot morning sun.

Bourda Market: RR5R+WMH, Georgetown, Guyana

Backyard Cafe

My favorite part about coming back to Guyana is being able to stuff my face with the various spices, flavors, and ingredients of African, Indian, and Asian influence. After embarking on the aforementioned market tour, all of the fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood that we hand-selected were transported back to the Backyard Cafe’s kitchen for preparation, as Chef Delven curated the ultimate home-away-from-home atmosphere. When you visit, I recommend ordering the vegetable chow mein and shark. But, really, Chef Delven has a knack for everything — even ingredients that may be considered an acquired taste like karila (bitter melon) and farine (flour made from cassava) — into crowd favorites.

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The best guyana tours with dagron tours.

Explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Guyana with Dagron Tours. Our experienced tour guides are passionate about showing you the beauty and richness of this gem nestled between Venezuela, Brazil and Suriname.

We offer Guyana tours you can customize to your interests, such as nature and wildlife watching, cultural tours, or thrilling adventure tours.

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Happy customers.

Thank you for your efforts in making our stay in Guyana a pleasant one. We have now returned to the UK and now review our trip. The photographs show our satisfaction of our trip. We would now like to thank you, Harry and Eugene and all at Dagron Tours. The Kaiteur/Orinduik tour was excellent—food was good. The Georgetown City tour was very informative. Pity the Essequibo River tour did not come off. A good excuse for a return visit. We enjoyed our day trip to Berbice 63 beach. Overall we enjoyed it so much that we have started planning our return trip. Again our thanks to you all for making our stay enjoyable.

Best regards,

Dr G.K., Nina & Ryan.

 Thank you so much for organising a simply wonderful trip to Guyana. All the guides were first class, interesting, informative and enthusiastic. The lodges were all good, in exceptional locations, comfortable with excellent food. We especially have to thank you for the private charter flights to the falls and on to Iwokrama. That was a real treat!! We felt that we had good value for money and the cost of the tour was much cheaper than certain Guyana tour operators who quoted like for like. We loved the country with it's amazing wildlife, rainforests and rivers and will sing your praises to anyone willing to listen. If you would like me to post comments on a site such as Tripadvisor, I will do so willingly. It was good to meet you on beautiful Sloth Island. It was a delightful start to our trip. Please pass on our very best regards to Mr. Alliss and the staff. Thank you again and the very best of luck for the future.

Rosie, Moray, Geoff & Ailsa

First of all we want to thank you for the great effort you made to arrange our trip to Guyana and Suriname. We recognize and appreciate the juggling required to adjust and readjust the program. We enjoyed the trip immensely. We wish to express our thanks to you for your thoughtfulness and thoroughness in planning and adjusting our visit--and all in such short notice. We won't hesitate to recommend Dagron to other travellers we know. Please give our best wishes to the staff.

All the best,

Linda and Malcolm

Hi Ann, Althea, Orien and Raplh!

I hope you all are well. I have just returned back to work today. Thank you so much for your kind email and lovely words. I had such a FANTASTIC holiday. Someone today remarked that I looked completely relaxed and they wanted to know where I went so they could go there too! I told them Guyana! What a wonderful trip you planned for me. Thanks again for everything. It's been fun sharing stories with my parents as well about the trip. Once I have slept more, I will send you some photos. I look forward to seeing you in Guyana again soon.

Take care and enjoy the rest of your week.

Orniyinka, D., UK

Dear Richard and Ann:

We had a delightful and memory-filled trip to the Guianas. The trip to the Falls was the highlight. I have been sharing photos with all of my friends. Mark and I really appreciated all of the work you put in to make the trip as memorable as it was, especially with the problems with the META flight...but that is part of the memories and experiences that make travel so wonderful. Feel free to use us as references if any US citizens need one.

Jim C Orinda, California 94563

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The Best 10 Things to Do in Guyana

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of South America, Guyana is a country that remains relatively unknown to many travelers. However, this English-speaking nation, blanketed by lush tropical rainforests and pristine savannahs, offers a wealth of unforgettable adventures and unique experiences. From exploring the mighty Kaieteur Falls to encountering giant species in their natural habitats, Guyana promises an exhilarating journey through nature’s wonders. Here are the top 10 things to add to your Guyana bucket list.

Marvel at the Majestic Kaieteur Falls

Kaieteur Falls is undoubtedly Guyana’s most iconic attraction and a must-visit for any traveler. This colossal natural wonder is the world’s largest single-drop waterfall by volume, plunging an impressive 741 feet (226 meters) into the rainforest below. The thunderous roar of cascading water and the misty spray create an awe-inspiring spectacle that will leave you spellbound. Access to Kaieteur Falls is an adventure in itself, typically via a scenic flight over the verdant jungle canopy.

Encounter the Elusive Jaguar in the Wild

Guyana’s pristine rainforests are home to an array of fascinating wildlife, including the majestic jaguar – the largest cat in the Americas. With patience and the guidance of experienced local trackers, you may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of this powerful predator prowling through the undergrowth or lounging in the branches of a towering tree. Spotting a jaguar in its natural habitat is an experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s majesty.

Explore the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway

Immerse yourself in the heart of the rainforest by traversing the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, a series of suspension bridges and viewing platforms suspended up to 100 feet (30 meters) above the ground. This unique attraction offers a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy, providing opportunities to spot a diverse array of avian species, including the striking Guianan cock-of-the-rock performing its elaborate mating dance. Time your visit for dawn or dusk to witness the forest come alive with the sights and sounds of its diverse inhabitants.

Related content : 5 Foods You Must Eat in Guyana

Discover the Fascinating World of Giant Water Lilies

Guyana is home to the Victoria amazonica, the world’s largest water lily species. These remarkable aquatic plants can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter, with leaves sturdy enough to support the weight of a small child. Venture into the tranquil lakes and oxbow lagoons to witness these natural wonders firsthand, and you may even catch sight of their vibrant flowers transitioning from white to deep red as they bloom overnight.

Stay in an Indigenous Eco-Lodge

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Guyana’s indigenous communities by staying at one of the country’s eco-lodges. These authentic accommodations, operated by local Amerindian tribes, provide a unique opportunity to experience traditional ways of life while minimizing your environmental impact. Engage with your hosts, learn about their customs and traditions, and participate in activities like cassava bread-making, basket weaving, and guided nature walks through the surrounding rainforests and savannahs.

Assist in Black Caiman Conservation Efforts

Join local researchers and scientists in their efforts to protect the endangered black caiman, one of the largest reptile species in the world. Embark on a nocturnal excursion along the Rupununi River, where you’ll have the opportunity to assist in catching, measuring, and releasing these magnificent creatures as part of ongoing conservation and research initiatives. This hands-on experience not only provides an up-close encounter with these impressive predators but also contributes to their long-term survival.

Fish for the Mighty Arapaima

Test your angling skills by trying to catch the arapaima, one of the world’s largest freshwater fish species. These massive creatures can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length and weigh over 400 pounds (180 kilograms). Guided by local experts, you’ll embark on a catch-and-release fishing adventure, using traditional techniques to reel in these prehistoric-looking giants. As you battle against their sheer power, you’ll gain a newfound respect for the remarkable biodiversity of Guyana’s waterways.

Hike to the Summit of Awarmie Mountain

For those seeking a physical challenge amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, the hike to the summit of Awarmie Mountain is an unforgettable experience. This strenuous trek through the dense rainforest rewards you with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Along the way, you may encounter local Makushi people going about their daily routines or catch glimpses of vibrant bird species flitting through the canopy. Once at the top, set up camp and spend the night under a canopy of stars before descending the following day.

Witness the Nesting of Endangered Sea Turtles

Guyana’s Shell Beach is a critical nesting site for four species of endangered sea turtles, including the massive leatherback. Between February and August, these ancient mariners haul themselves ashore to lay their eggs in the protected sands. Join a guided tour at night, when the turtles are most active, and witness the remarkable process of nest construction and egg-laying firsthand. With responsible eco-tourism practices, you can contribute to the preservation of these magnificent creatures for generations to come.

Embark on a Culinary Adventure

No visit to Guyana would be complete without indulging in the country’s unique and flavorful cuisine. Explore the vibrant stalls of Georgetown’s Bourda Market, where you can sample exotic fruits, purchase freshly caught fish, and even try traditional remedies prepared by local vendors. Then, join a cooking class or dine at the renowned Backyard Café, where Chef Delven Adams will introduce you to the rich tapestry of Guyanese flavors, including the beloved cassava – a staple root vegetable used in breads, sauces, and beverages.

Guyana is a destination that promises adventures beyond your wildest dreams. From cascading waterfalls and lush rainforests to rare wildlife encounters and immersive cultural experiences, this South American gem offers a treasure trove of unforgettable moments. Embark on this journey, and you’ll return home with memories that will forever shape your appreciation for the natural world and its diverse inhabitants.

Photo of the portrait: Depositphotos

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G Adventures Review – My Experience on their Laos Tour

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

Even though I generally like to travel independently, I’ve taken quite a few tours as well over the years. But, while I’ve been aware of G Adventures for a decade, I’d never toured with them. That was until I went to Laos , so allow me to share my experience in this independent G Adventures review.

Laos was one of the last countries left in Southeast Asia for me to visit. To help me visit for the first time I decided to take this Laos tour , which would take me from Vientiane through the country, over to Chiang Mai in Thailand, before finishing in Bangkok. It’s actually part of a larger tour through Southeast Asia , but my interest was squarely in seeing Laos and Northern Thailand. This is how I found it.

(This review is not a collaboration/sponsored post with G Adventures. I paid to travel on this tour, just as you would. And yes, this article does have affiliate links.)

Table of Contents

Why take a tour?

Among the broad community of travellers, you have a full spectrum of opinions on taking tours. For some travellers, it’s the only option, especially in places far different from home. Others would never take a tour and don’t see the point.

To me, tours are worth my time when they do a few things. Tours are a good idea when I want someone else to handle logistics such as transport and borders. This was my first visit to Laos and it seemed like getting around the country was slow and complicated. Maybe it wasn’t as bad as I thought, but I didn’t have the bandwidth to plan it, I was still planning my time in Thailand.

Besides making a visit easier, a tour should make a trip richer or deeper by providing access. I’ll get into all of the activities taking this tour allowed me to do later in this G Adventures tour review. Safe to say, I would have had a very different experience going on my own.

Oh, and it shouldn’t be unreasonably expensive. Tours are rarely the most affordable way to travel, but the right ones – like my G Adventures tour – make the price worth it through the logistics and experiences they offer.

Why did I pick G Adventures?

With so many options for tour providers online, it can be tough to decide who to go with. But I didn’t have much trouble picking G Adventures for multiple reasons.

I’ve always heard good things about G Adventures and seen glowing reviews of G Adventures from other travel bloggers. So, I welcomed the chance to try them for myself.

But also Laos isn’t that common of a destination. G Adventures has one of the more extensive tours of Laos for my budget. You can find other tours of the country, but they cost a lot more and only cover a little more of the country.

One perk that sealed the deal for me in the end was the variety of ways I could construct my tour. I could choose to finish in Chiang Mai, travel straight to Bangkok, or spend several days hiking in the hills of northern Thailand. That last one sounded extra special and it was.

The types of G Adventures tours

If you’re not familiar with G Adventures , they offer small-group tours for every budget. This means you often will find multiple tours to the same country or region, each with a different price point.

Tours are also classed by their theme, so you’ll find categories like Active, Family, Marine, and Wellness. The different types of G Adventures tours are:

• 18-to-Thirtysomethings: budget tours with younger travellers in mind
• Classic: mid-range all-ages tours that focus on the destination
• National Geographic Journeys: High-end tours with a strong focus on culture and wildlife
• Geluxe: Premium tours for active adventures

My Laos tour was an 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour. But this Southeast Asia tour is the nearest equivalent for those seeking the classic, all-ages tour.

How does G Adventures compare to Intrepid?

Intrepid is who I’ve toured most frequently with before. Both Intrepid and G Adventures are global tour companies that offer a diverse range of tours. A lot of the time, they often run similar tours. On my travels in Central America (with Intrepid), we met the same G Adventures group day after day.

Tours from the two companies are similar and so are their prices. I looked at both for this trip, but only G Adventures had the overnight Mekong River cruise included in its budget option. That alone made G Adventures the clear option for me.

One practice both companies employ is local tourism efforts that allow communities to benefit from tourism in sustainable ways.

This work generally comes in the form of homestay experiences. During my Laos tour, we stayed in a village along the Mekong rather than the tourist town of Pak Beng. We also stayed with local families both nights on the hill tribes trek in Thailand. Intrepid do the same thing, as I experienced in Cambodia .

These efforts by both companies are of great value. But I felt that through G Adventures, I learned more about the prospects of people in these communities and the arrangement felt a little less performative.

Things I would have missed without the tour

The best way to sum up the value of a tour is by looking at the experiences you wouldn’t have had without it. I try my best to do as much as possible when travelling, but a group tour can make some things easier.

Tours lower the friction for doing activities.

For one you have people to do things with, which is always more fun. Kayaking at Vang Vieng and taking a cooking class in Chiang Mai were way more enjoyable because I was doing them with people I knew. It doesn’t hurt that the activities are organized for you, removing that barrier.

Of course, even budget tours have included activities and the G Adventures tour of Laos and Thailand is no different. Some activities included in the tour were bamboo rafting on the Mae Taeng River and hiking to Vang Vieng’s Nam Xay Viewpoint.

Having core activities in a tour helps too. The Mekong Cruise and hill tribe trek are the two features activities of the tour . They would have taken a bit of effort to arrange on my own, so I’m not convinced I would have done either without G Adventures. And without them, my trip would have been very different and far less memorable.

What does a G Adventures tour include?

Experiences are a big part of a multi-day tour, but they’re not the only part. Let’s look at what comes with a G Adventures tour .

• Accommodation:  On the budget tour, sleeping arrangements are all twin-share, four-bed dorms, or in the case of the homestays, everyone together. Most nights were at mid-range hotels, often the same used by classic tours, only they stay in the more expensive rooms.
• Transport: Apparently after COVID-19, G Adventures has opted for all private transport. This meant a private minibus and a private boat on the Mekong. The included overnight train back to Bangkok was obviously not private.
• Meals: Breakfast is provided most days and meals are included for the homestay/trekking experiences.
• Certain day trips: Several core activities are included in the tour, such as the day trip to Kuang-Si Waterfall, the night market tour in Luang Prabang, and the Nam Xay Viewpoint hike.

A key thing to understand about the budget tour is that very few activities are included in the price of the tour. That way, budget travellers can choose whether they want to spend more money to do things. You pay extra to do things like kayak on the Nam Song River or go to the Doi Suthep temple outside Chiang Mai.

Pros and cons of a G Adventures tour

As with most tours, you’re asked for feedback at the end of the tour. So everything I’m saying in this G Adventures review, I already provided directly as feedback to the company. Yes, the good and the bad. No tour is perfect, so let’s look at the pros and cons of my G Adventures tour experience.

What worked

On the whole, there were a lot of positives from taking this G Adventures tour. I’ve already mentioned how many fantastic experiences I would have missed without it, so let’s look at the other pros:

• Guides/CEOs: The biggest positive takeaway was our two guides or CEOs (Chief Experience Officers), Sonny and Frida . Both were attentive, informative and really engaged with the group in an open, endearing way. A highlight on their own.
• Local guides: G Adventures pairs their guides with local guides on their multi-country itineraries when their guide is from a different country. Having a local Laos guide was a great touch and added even more to the experience.
• Transport: Throughout the trip, we benefited from safe and stress-free transport. It was private transport almost the entire time but for the overnight train back to Bangkok, which was a welcome surprise.
• The Group: We had a relatively broad mix of people. The groups were mostly solo travellers with a healthy mix of genders, backgrounds, nationalities etc.
• The Age Range: While I was the oldest on this 18-to-Thirtysomethings tour, I wasn’t the only person in their 30s. There were people right across the age range, from 18-year-olds to 30-somethings like myself.

What didn’t?

No tour is perfect and even the concept of taking a tour has its limitations. I think many of my gripes with my G Adventures tour relate more to my habit of travelling solo than anything. Looking at other G Adventures reviews, many of the complaints also relate to unavoidable tour- or destination-specific issues and not the company.

Still, you may find them useful:

• Too Little Time: The pace of the itinerary meant we had limited time, honestly too little time, in certain places. I felt we needed more time in Luang Prabang and Chiang Mai, as it was a rush to see much in either place. I’ll be going back.
• Some Accommodation: Our accommodation was generally fine, if a bit basic. Our hotel on the Thai/Laos border was mediocre, with things like an exposed balcony between the bedroom and bathroom.
• Twin-Share, 1 Key: The budget 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours are all twin-share, with no option for a single supplement. It’s not the worst thing, but sharing one hotel key with young people who go out every night leads to disrupted sleep.
• Night After Night: There’s a somewhat heavy focus on nightlife for the budget tours, which will suit many people. But if you don’t drink, like sleep, or only like the occasional night out, you can feel a bit left out or get over it quickly.
• Group communication: G Adventures has an app that they encourage you to use. It is buggy as hell, so tours often don’t use it, despite it holding the official itinerary. Instead, they use WhatsApp with a rundown each evening about the next day, which is fine if your phone has roaming, but when you don’t you’re often late to the party.

My verdict, would I recommend G Adventures?

The G Adventures reviews you see on their site/internet are legit and they really are worth travelling with.

I’m glad I trusted them with my trip to Laos. It was a destination I had been really looking forward to, but knew there’d be some challenges to explore on my own. The experience was much more eventful and enjoyable than I could have anticipated, making it worth spending more money for a tour, rather than organising it myself.

Have you ever taken a G Adventures tour before? What questions do you have that this G Adventures review doesn’t cover? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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What is social entrepreneurship in tourism? G Adventures fouder explains

“If you want all the comforts of home, maybe you should… stay home. Nobody wants you travelling.”

When Bruce Poon Tip, a Canadian businessman and founder of G Adventures , delivers this line during a tourism event in Auckland, his cheeky grin and comedic timing get a round of laughs from the crowd.

Yet, behind the humour is a weighty challenge for most tourists and tourism companies.

From backpacker to founder

It was 1990 and 22-year-old Poon Tip was exploring Asia when he noticed the difference between backpacking and mainstream travel.

“I saw these coaches of people who were not really experiencing the country and I was on a $10-a-day budget, travelling around Asia, staying with local people and travelling on local buses,” he recalled.

“I realised that their experience wasn’t even a real experience, so I came back and I founded G Adventures,” he said, with the goal to offer “organised experiences that were cultural immersion-based, using local transportation, and local accommodation”.

Almost 35 years later, the company is now the world’s biggest small-group adventure travel company taking 200,000 travellers on 750 tours each year. The founding philosophy and focus on social entrepreneurship, however, remains unchanged.

It’s also a philosophy Poon Tip thinks the tourism industry is in desperate need of.

The problem with ‘normal’

Current estimates put tourist numbers at 1.5 billion a year and in 2030, it’s forecast to hit 2 billion. It’s a massive number and one many countries rely on economically; especially if they are developing.

“Tourism in the 40 poorest countries is number one or two in terms of foreign exchange in that country,” Poon Tip explains, typically competing with oil for first place.

But in the not-too-distant past, this all stopped, for a while. The pandemic ground tourism to a stubborn halt and, like many other industries, there was much discussion about how to get back to normal.

But Poon Tip wasn’t too eager on “business as usual”.

“The travel industry just before Covid wasn’t so great. Normal wasn’t so great,” he said, referencing the headlines about over-tourism, tourist invasions, flight shaming and locals suing tour companies.

It’s not that tourism itself is bad but rather, the business model, Poon Tip said: one that prioritises amenities (think resorts, restaurants or activities) over the destination.

“When we sell people amenities over the destination, people start booking because they want 5-star accommodation or they want comfort levels or they want distractions like Broadway shows or go-cart tracks or you know, 10 different restaurants, to make sure they can get Italian food and French food and sushi when they’re in another country,” he said.

As a result, the destination becomes secondary or irrelevant, Poon Tip said, illustrating his point with a picture of a cruise ship in Alaska, which had a go-cart track on-board.

“Everything is there for them so they never really felt like they left home.”

Poon Tip isn’t against comfort but said it had been confused for comfort zone, with tourism companies trying to ensure travellers can go abroad without ever feeling foreign.

Covid only heightened this dynamic, he said, as social isolation and reliance on technology “fed our addition to convenience”.

“We are addicted, absolutely to convenience and ease and all the tech we have today makes things easier”.

Comfort-zone lovers should stay home

What about travellers who want to experience the world but don’t want to forgo their favourite coffee order, eating schedule, bedding or hobbies?

The solution is simple to Poon Tip; stay home.

“The reason we’re all in this industry is to show people the world and show people different countries. Don’t you think if you’re in another country you should feel like you’re in another country?” he said.

Ironically, by trying to care for a traveller, tourism companies do them a “great injustice” Poon Tip added, as one can’t remove the discomfort or foreignness of travel without removing its benefits; “a greater sense of self, a greater understanding of our place in the universe but more importantly a greater appreciation of where we come from”.

The danger of tourism’s current model

Reducing travel to an itinerary of amenities or experiences extraneous to the destination isn’t just less rich or rewarding, it’s also dangerous, the G-Adventures founder said.

In fact, it’s “the most dangerous place” the travel industry can be.

Traditionally, if a tourism company in Bali wants to attract customers, it will promote unique attractions and experiences. But if tourism companies begin focusing on universal amenities such as resort chains or shopping malls, hotels or cruises, discounts become a key selling point.

The company rarely bears the cost of these discounts, Poon Tip points out. It’s local residents who feel the squeeze.

“Communities are not welcoming to tourists because they’re not benefiting from them being there, so they get angry,” he explained. This is why, in certain destinations, travellers are told to stay within a resort or hotel complex because locals are restless.

“Of course they’re restless because you’re in there, swallowing mass amounts of natural resources and on the other side of those walls they don’t have access to clean drinking water or medical care.” Poon Tip said.

“They’re upset, they’re not benefiting from you being in their country,” he added, saying this model of amenity-driven, mass tourism is “just not sustainable”.

However, there is a solution that benefits travellers, local communities and companies; social entrepreneurship.

The idea of social entrepreneurship isn’t new but G Adventures is a global case study for its use within tourism.

“When we get that intersection between extreme poverty and tourism, we can create great things like wealth distribution, poverty alleviation, that people never thought could be possible before,” Poon Tip said.

It all depends on how you capitalise on the value chain created when someone decides to travel.

Hacking the value chain

Since travel is a privilege, it comes with responsibility, which travellers can approach one of two ways, Poon Tip says.

The first way is “mainstream tourism”. This involves booking with tourism providers that are cheap, amenity-rich or owned by non-local people. It looks like visiting Mexico but staying at an all-inclusive resort owned by an American company or travelling to Bali and only eating at cafes owned by Australians. The result is what experts call ”tourism leak” and is why, when a tourist spends US$100 towards a holiday in a developing country, only $5 stays in that country’s economy, according to UNWTO.

The second way is community tourism, which G Adventures describes as “everybody being included in the value chain”.

“When you go on holiday, everyone benefits from you going on holiday,” Poon Tip said, describing it as a “two-way dialogue” between travellers and locals, directly.

“It’s about being mindful of the impact your holiday spending could have and directing that money towards locals, in a way that changes lives.”

Your taxi from the airport could be through a co-op that provides jobs to women in India. Lunch is eaten at a Vietnamese cooking school training street children in hospitality skills. Your tour group stops at a small women-run weaving business that sells authentic crafts, shares culture with tourists and presents an appealing career for young people who would otherwise move to a big city.

“We’ve talked about this at G Adventures for years, that going on holiday could be your form of giving back,” Poon Tip said.

Holidays for good

As wonderful as it would be, the idea of vacations-as-altruism does feel like a stretch. It’s also a convenient pitch for a tourism company founder to make. Surely $4000 is better sent directly to a charity on Costa Rica rather than taking a holiday in Costa Rica?

Poon Tip says yes, donating to charities is impactful but not a reality for younger generations, for three reasons.

“I think the next generation is not just going to give their money to someone because there is too much transparency in business now,” he said, describing how large portions of a donation often go towards administrative costs.

Secondly, younger people want to be more intimately involved with causes and fully understand what someone is going through instead of throwing money at a charity. Thirdly, Poon Tip said social enterprises had more impact, faster.

“Charities are not the ones who are changing the world right now. It’s Bill Gates, it’s Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk before he went weird, Ted Turner,” he said.

While describing vacations as generous feels farfetched, G Adventure’s founding logic does make sense.

If spending money on a trip, why not make that money go further? Why not prioritise local initiatives that, not only benefit local people directly but also offer a more genuine experience of the place and people I’ve come so far to see?

Because, if I’ve travelled for days (as most Kiwis must) to reach a far-flung destination, you can bet I’m not interested in feeling right at home.

Papua New Guinea - New Britain - ()

Papua new guinea - new britain.

• Dates, Leaders and Pricing
• Trip Reports
• Tour Enquiry

New Britain is the largest island of the Bismarck Archipelago and supports many seldom seen endemics for which we will be searching. Situated between the Bismarck and Solomon Seas, this narrow mountainous island is over six hundred kilometers long, but only eighty kilometers at its widest.  The rich, exploited volcanic soils of the eastern portion of the island present a striking contrast to the western portion, where Western influences began mostly in the Second World War.

We begin our exploration of the area by embarking on an afternoon boat trip into Kimbe Bay and the open ocean, stopping off at some small islands in search of species such as Spot-breasted Cuckoo-Dove, Floury Imperial Pigeon, Beach Kingfisher, Island Monarch, Golden Whistler, (Bismarck) Black and Scarlet-bibbed (Sclater’s) Myzomelas and the beautiful Nicobar Pigeon. Over the next two days, we will then bird various sites around West New Britain including Pokili Wildlife Management Area, Garu Ridge and the Kulu River. These are key areas for many of the birds that are either endemic to New Britain or the Bismarck Archipelago.  A healthy proportion of these birds are sought-after species with extremely limited ranges. We will also visit a vast colony of Melanesian Megapodes that number thousands of individuals, and we should see good numbers of these awkward birds as they flush from the ground and clamber in the trees around us.

This short yet exciting extension to our Papua New Guinea birding adventures offers several rare and endemic bird species to be found nowhere else on our planet.

Blue-eyed Cockatoo, Nicobar Pigeon, Black Honey Buzzard, New Britain Sparrowhawk, Melanesian Megapode, Knob-billed Fruit Dove, Finsch's Imperial Pigeon, Song Parrot, Violaceous & White-necked Coucal, New Britain Boobook, Black-capped Paradise Kingfisher, Beach & White-mantled Kingfisher, Sclater's Myzomela, White-backed Woodswallow, Black-tailed Monarch, Long-tailed Myna, Red-banded Flowerpecker & Buff-bellied Mannikin

Habitats Covered

lowland rainforest, grasslands, islets

Expected Climate

hot and humid with tropical showers

Max Group Size

8 with 1 Rockjumper leader / 9 - 12 with 2 Rockjumper leaders

Tour Pace & Walking

moderate pace

Accommodation

comfortable resort

Ease of Birding

moderate, can be challenging at times

Number of Species Expected

Other attractions.

coral reef snorkeling

Photographic Opportunities

What our clients say about us.

RL & CL - Papua New Guinea

We thought the birding went very well. Both Dusan and Stephan were great guides - very knowledgeable, very dedicated, quite determined to get everyone onto pretty much everything, and they combined very well. And, they both tried very hard to help all the participants who needed it, whether it was locating a bird, getting up a steep section or getting in or out of the boats. They did an admirable job.

AH, Papua New Guinea 2018

Glen Valentine was excellent, seeing and hearing most of the target birds, despite a very chatty, enthusiastic group that must have been very challenging at times.

JH - Papua New Guinea 2019

Adam Walleyn knew the birds and the calls and worked hard to make sure we saw not only the specialties of the area but all the birds. His nightbirding skills were phenomenal. It is like he knew exactly where the bird was going to show.

GW - Papua New Guinea 2019

This has been an incredible tour with Stephan Lorenz and Dušan Brinkhuizen as amazing guides. Experts in their knowledge of the New Guinea birds and wonderful companions who looked after the needs of all the participants. We all worked as a team under their guidance and saw many challenging as well as beautiful birds.

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2024

29 Aug 2024 - 02 Sep 2024 (5 days)

USD2,595 - 1 Space Available

Tour Leader: André Bernon

Tour Leader: Stephan Lorenz

Tour price (Per person): USD2,595 * GBP2,035 * EUR2,392 * AUD3,904

Single Supplement: USD330 * GBP259 * EUR304 * AUD496

Flight costs: USD480 * GBP376 * EUR443 * AUD722

Can be linked with:

Papua New Guinea - New Britain I 2025

26 May 2025 - 30 May 2025 (5 days)

USD2,695 - Spaces Available

Tour Leader: Julian Parsons

Tour Leader: Paul Varney

Tour price (Per person): USD2,695 * GBP2,114 * EUR2,485 * AUD4,055

Flight costs: USD330 * GBP259 * EUR304 * AUD496

Papua New Guinea - New Britain II 2025

14 Jul 2025 - 18 Jul 2025 (5 days)

Tour Leader: Amanda Guercio

Tour Leader: Lev Frid

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2025

16 Aug 2025 - 20 Aug 2025 (5 days)

Tour Leader: Erik Forsyth

Tour Leader: Robert Williams

Papua New Guinea - New Britain I 2026

25 Jun 2026 - 29 Jun 2026 (5 days)

USD2,800 - Spaces Available

Tour Leader: Carlos Bocos

Pricing notes : *Prices are estimated and dates may change*

Tour price (Per person): USD2,800 * GBP2,196 * EUR2,581 * AUD4,213

Can be linked with: Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise 2026

Papua New Guinea - New Britain II 2026

21 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026 (5 days)

Can be linked with: Papua New Guinea - Highlights II 2026

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2026

12 Sep 2026 - 16 Sep 2026 (5 days)

Tour Leader: Adam Walleyn

Can be linked with: Papua New Guinea - Adelbert Range & Huon Peninsula 2026

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise (Small Group) II 2023 - August 2023

Papua New Guinea - Highlights II 2023 - August 2023

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2023 - August 2023

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise IV 2023 - August 2023

Papua New Guinea - Adelbert Range & Huon Peninsula 2023 - July 2023

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise III 2022 - July 2022

Papua New Guinea - New Britain II 2022 - July 2022

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise II 2022 - June 2022

Papua New Guinea - Huon Peninsula Extension I 2022 - June 2022

Papua New Guinea - Highlights I 2019 - September 2019

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2019 - August 2019

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise V 2019 - August 2019

Papua New Guinea - Huon Peninsula Extension II 2019 - August 2019

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise IV 2019 - July 2019

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise III 2019 - June 2019

Papua New Guinea - Huon Peninsula Extension I 2019 - June 2019

Papua New Guinea - Highlights 2018 - September 2018

Papua New Guinea - New Britain III 2018 - August 2018

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise V 2018 - August 2018

Papua New Guinea - Birding in Paradise IV 2018 - July 2018

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