The Iwokrama Forest is a 371,000-hectare protected rainforest in the heart of Guyana — one of only four pristine tropical rainforests remaining on Earth. Gifted to the international community by the Government of Guyana in 1996, it serves as a living laboratory for sustainable development and conservation.
For visitors, Iwokrama offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience: walking above the forest canopy, spotting jaguars on the forest road, and encountering wildlife that has remained undisturbed for millennia. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Iwokrama Rainforest.
The Iwokrama Canopy Walkway
The crown jewel of Iwokrama is its canopy walkway — one of the longest in the world. Suspended 30 meters (100 feet) above the forest floor, it offers a perspective on the rainforest that few places on Earth can match.
Canopy Walkway Facts
Length: 154 meters (505 feet)
Height: 30 meters (100 feet) above ground
Platforms: 4 observation platforms
Best time: Dawn for birding, dusk for wildlife
Walking the canopy at dawn is magical. As the sun rises, the forest comes alive with bird calls — toucans, parrots, cotingas, and tanagers fill the treetops. Monkeys move through the branches, and with luck, you might spot an owl or potoo returning from its nightly hunt.
Birding Tip
The canopy walkway is particularly famous for the Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock — brilliant orange males can be seen displaying at leks near the walkway. Ask your guide about current lek locations.
Wildlife of Iwokrama
Iwokrama's pristine forest supports an incredible diversity of life. Key species include:
Mammals
- Jaguar — Regularly seen on night drives along the Iwokrama Road
- Brazilian Tapir — Visits mineral licks, especially during dry season
- Giant Armadillo — Nocturnal and elusive but present
- Spider Monkey — Common in the canopy
- Red Howler Monkey — Their calls echo at dawn and dusk
- Capuchin Monkey — Active and curious around the lodges
- Ocelot & Margay — Smaller cats spotted on night excursions
Birds
With over 500 species recorded, Iwokrama is a premier birding destination:
- Harpy Eagle — Nests monitored in the forest
- Guianan Cock-of-the-Rock — Males display at leks
- Crimson Fruitcrow — Stunning and sought-after
- Capuchinbird — Bizarre-looking with amazing calls
- Scarlet Macaw — Pairs fly overhead daily
- Multiple toucan species — Including Channel-billed
- Potoos — Masters of camouflage
- Owls — Including Crested Owl and Spectacled Owl
Reptiles & Amphibians
- Fer-de-lance & Bushmaster — Venomous snakes (stay on trails!)
- Emerald Tree Boa — Beautiful green snake in the canopy
- Poison Dart Frogs — Multiple colorful species
- Cane Toad — Massive toads common at night
Experience Iwokrama
Walk above the rainforest canopy and encounter incredible wildlife. Book your Iwokrama adventure.
View Tours & LodgesWhere to Stay in Iwokrama
Two excellent lodges serve the Iwokrama Forest:
Iwokrama River Lodge
The main lodge, beautifully situated on the banks of the Essequibo River. Comfortable cabins with private facilities, restaurant, and bar. Perfect base for exploring the river and surrounding forest.
$280-400 USD/night (all-inclusive)
Atta Rainforest Lodge
Simple but comfortable lodge near the canopy walkway. Perfect for early morning walks before dawn. Basic rooms but excellent location for birding and forest activities.
$180-280 USD/night (all-inclusive)
Stay Strategy
For the best experience, stay at both lodges — one night at Atta for dawn canopy walks, and 1-2 nights at Iwokrama River Lodge for river trips and forest excursions. Most tour packages include this combination.
Activities in Iwokrama
- Canopy walkway: Dawn and dusk walks for birding and wildlife
- Night drives: Spotlight excursions for jaguar, ocelot, and nocturnal birds
- Forest trails: Guided hikes through pristine rainforest
- River trips: Boat excursions on the Essequibo River
- Birding: Targeted trips for specific species including cock-of-the-rock leks
- Turtle Mountain: Hike for panoramic views over the forest
- Cultural visits: Fair View village and indigenous community experiences
How to Get to Iwokrama
By Road (Most Common)
Iwokrama is located along the Georgetown-Lethem road, making it a natural stop on overland journeys:
- From Georgetown: 5-7 hours (approximately 300 km)
- From Annai: 1 hour (gateway to North Rupununi)
- Road condition: Unpaved but well-maintained in dry season
- 4x4 recommended: Essential in rainy season
By Air
Charter flights can land at nearby airstrips for faster access:
- Fly to Annai or Fair View, then drive to the lodges
- Arranged through tour operators
- More expensive but saves travel time
Recommended Route
Most visitors combine Iwokrama with the Rupununi Savannah, traveling overland from Georgetown through Iwokrama to the Rupununi lodges, then flying back. This allows you to experience both forest and savannah ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | Sept-April | Best wildlife viewing, easier road travel, less rain |
| Rainy Season | May-August | Lush forest, breeding birds, some areas inaccessible |
| Best Overall | Oct-Dec | Dry, good wildlife, fewer visitors |
Conservation & Sustainable Tourism
Iwokrama is a model for sustainable forest management. The reserve demonstrates that forests can generate economic value while remaining standing, through:
- Ecotourism: Lodges and activities generate income for conservation
- Sustainable timber: FSC-certified selective logging in designated zones
- Research: Ongoing scientific studies on biodiversity and climate
- Community benefits: Local villages employed as guides, staff, and partners
By visiting Iwokrama, you directly support one of the most innovative conservation models in the tropics.
What to Bring
- Binoculars: Essential for birding and canopy walks (8x42 recommended)
- Camera with zoom: 100-400mm for wildlife in the canopy
- Headlamp/flashlight: For night walks and drives
- Rain gear: Even in dry season, afternoon showers occur
- Long pants and sleeves: Protection from insects and vegetation
- Sturdy shoes: Closed-toe with good grip for forest trails
- Insect repellent: DEET-based recommended
- Neutral colors: Avoid bright colors that can startle wildlife
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Iwokrama canopy walkway?
The canopy walkway is a 154-meter suspended bridge, 30 meters above the forest floor, with four observation platforms. It's one of the longest in the world and offers unparalleled views into the rainforest canopy for birding and wildlife viewing.
How do you get to Iwokrama?
Most visitors travel by road from Georgetown (5-7 hours) or as part of a longer Rupununi itinerary. Charter flights to nearby airstrips are possible but more expensive. The Georgetown-Lethem road passes directly through the reserve.
Can you see jaguars in Iwokrama?
Yes! Jaguars are regularly spotted on night drives along the Iwokrama Road. Sighting rates vary, but during dry season, chances on multi-night stays can exceed 20%. The Rupununi savannahs nearby offer even better odds.
How long should I spend in Iwokrama?
Minimum 2 nights to experience the canopy walkway at dawn and dusk, plus night drives. 3-4 nights allows for more thorough exploration including river trips and targeted birding. Most visitors combine with 3-4 nights in the Rupununi.
Is the canopy walkway safe?
Yes, the walkway is well-maintained and safe for visitors of all fitness levels. It's constructed to international standards with safety railings and regular inspections. Those with severe fear of heights may find it challenging but most visitors complete it without issues.
Sample Iwokrama Itinerary
A typical combined itinerary:
- Day 1: Georgetown → Iwokrama River Lodge (drive through rainforest)
- Day 2: Morning birding, afternoon river trip, night drive for jaguar
- Day 3: Transfer to Atta Lodge, dusk canopy walkway
- Day 4: Dawn canopy walkway, continue to Rupununi
- Day 5-7: Rupununi lodges for savannah wildlife
- Day 8: Fly back to Georgetown
For more on combining with the Rupununi, see our Rupununi Savannah Guide and Guyana Wildlife Guide.
Last updated: January 2026. Need help planning your Iwokrama trip? Browse our rainforest tours or contact us.