Things to Do in Yupukari

Black Caiman Research

You are invited to accompany our caiman research crew. Guests will observe capture from a separate boat, but will be offered the opportunity to assist in data collection. Caiman are weighed, measured, sexed, tagged and released. Depending on the season, caiman nests are also studied, and so are the hatchlings. Yes, little baby caiman.

Creatures of the Night

Just after darkness settles on the Rupununi River many creatures emerge, such as black caiman, spectacled caiman, tree boas, iguanas, frogs, and many fish species( i.e arawana, piranha). Sleeping birds (kingfishers, small perching birds) nightjars, potoos, boat-billed herons and other aquatic birds, bats, (harmless) spiders, insects, moths, and more can be closely approached in way not possible during the hours of light. Less likely, but not rare inclusions for night viewing include possums, tree dwelling rodents, capybara and sleeping monkeys (esp. squirrel monkeys) amongst other mammals. Few nights pass without some unusual offering.

El Dorado

An early morning search for giant anteater and burrowing owls, touring termite mounds via Land Rover. The lowlands and wetlands of this region are thought to be the ancient site of Lake Parime, Sir Walter Raleigh's El Dorado.

Awarikru

A guided paddle in a dugout canoe, through flooded forest in rainy season (May-September) or in dry season, through local lakes looking for wildlife.

Village hikes & tours

There's plenty to explore right in the village, including visits to neighbors engaged in daily activities. Learn to make cassava bread, spin and weave cotton, fashion bricks from river clay, make rope from leaf fiber...

Fishing

Villagers love to fish, and they live in one of the most diverse fish habitats on earth. We can teach you, with local methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get there?

Click here for maps and instructions on traveling to Yupukari.

How does my stay support the village?

We are a US 501(c)3 non-profit foundation and a non-profit corporation in Guyana. 100% of our revenue surplus goes to support the village public library, wildlife and environmental conservation and cultural preservation projects.

Is there a minimum stay required?

No. Visitors are welcome to stay for as little as one night or as long as you'd like. Sleep in a comfortable bed or tie a hammock, both under thatched roofs. Please view our price list for further information.

What food services are available and are meals included?

Meals are included and prepared by Yupukari staff with traditional cooking methods. We employ the best cooks in the village to prepare delicious meals.... Remember, we are located in the one of the most diverse fish habitats in the world.

Whats the weather like?

Dry season brings dry, comfortable warmth, with the some of the best fishing of the year and mangos that practically fall off the trees. Travel by river and road and embark on excursions with ease.

Rainy Season brings a waterfall-fed swimming hole, just steps from our Guest House, and dugout excursions straight over the deeply-flooded savannas into the flooded forests, where you are literally paddling your way over trails and around trees instead of hiking. There's an explosion of extraordinary wildflowers and of aquatic wildlife; including 8+ species of frogs spawnining and developing in puddles you can observe on nocturnal walks right in Yupukari.