Iwokrama » Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Iwokrama” mean?

At 1000 metres (3,281 ft.) high, the Iwokrama Mountains form the geographic focal point of the Forest; they once provided a “place of refuge” for the Makushi people. The Centre and Forest are named after this striking formation, now a refuge for people and wildlife… and an extraordinary mission.

What should I bring?

Iwokrama will provide all of your meals while you are in the Forest, but we suggest that you bring the following with you:

  • Waterproof walking/hiking boots (We do not recommend wearing open footwear to walk in the rainforest)
  • Long trousers (2), preferably made of cotton-polyester mix.
  • Long-sleeved shirt, sweater or jacket for cool evenings
  • T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts (3-4); light colours are preferable, darker colours can attract insects
  • Several changes of socks
  • Raingear poncho or raincoat
  • Hat & sun-screen
  • Flip flops or trainers to wear when not on activities
  • Flashlight (headlamp if you want to see animal eye shine at night)
  • Insect repellent
  • Medication which you may require
  • Binoculars
  • A water container
  • Small Ruck Sack to take on activities
  • Small penknife
  • A Camera with flash.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time is during low-water season, when the rains have stopped and available water is concentrated in ponds and rivers. This concentration of water resources means that wildlife is less dispersed and therefore easier to see. The water is lowest from January to early April at the height of the dry season. The rainy season starts in late April and continues until early September, when the water is at its highest.

What animals are in the Iwokrama Forest?

The Iwokrama Forest’s ecosystem is located at a crossroads between Amazonian and Guianan flora and fauna. Due to this unique location, Iwokrama posesses an incredible animal diversity with an estimated 200 mammals, 500 birds, 420 fish and 150 species of amphibians and reptiles. This includes:

  • World’s highest numbers of fish (420) and bat (90) species for any area this size;
  • World’s largest scaled freshwater fish – Arapaima;
  • World’s largest alligator/caiman – Black Caiman;
  • World’s largest anteater – Giant Anteater;
  • World’s largest otter – Giant Otter;
  • World’s largest freshwater turtle – Giant River Turtle;
  • World’s largest snake – Anaconda;
  • World’s largest pit viper – Bushmaster;
  • World’s largest rodent – Capybara;
  • Americas’ largest eagle – Harpy Eagle;
  • South America’s largest cat – Jaguar.


    • For a complete scientific list:

    BIRDS
    MAMMALS
    REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS
    FISH

    Can I request vegetarian or other special diets?

    Yes, but this should be discussed in advance of your arrival to make sure that we can accommodate your particular needs.

    Do I need to take special precautions against malaria?

    Although Georgetown and the coastal areas are malaria-free, precautions are very important in the interior. Efforts to reduce the incidence of malaria have been successful, so that the numbers of reported cases have been drastically reduced over the years, however there is still a risk.

    We strongly suggest you discuss your options for anti-malarial medicines with your healthcare provider, and recommend that you wear long sleeves and long trousers in the evening and sleep under the mosquito nets provided.

    Eco-Tourism