Protected Areas currently cover approximately 8.5% of Guyana’s landmass, one of the highest percentages of any nation.
Among the main areas to explore in Guyana, Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve, Kaieteur National Park, Konashen Community-Owned Conservation Area, Kanuku Mountains, and Shell Beach are the most popular.
The virgin rainforests, open savannahs, mountain ranges, and extensive river systems of these reserves are home to rich biodiversity found in few places on the planet. Ecosystems that harbor species like the jaguar, giant anteater, giant river otter, black caiman, anaconda and the arapaima. As a result, Guyana is often called “The Land of the Giants” by intrepid wildlife enthusiasts.
With more than 820 bird species in Guyana, these protected areas are also a bird watcher’s paradise as well. Among the most sought-after by avid birders are the Harpy Eagle, Guianan Cock-of-the-rock and Hoatzin.
Hoatzin (Opisthocomus hoazin)
Savannah, Rupununi
GUYANA
South America
HABITAT & RANGE: Swamps, riverine forest and mangrove of the Amazon and the Orinoco delta in South America.
