Ben, a software engineer from Seattle, always dreamed of exploring South America’s untamed wilderness. While friends flocked to popular destinations like Brazil and Colombia, Ben had his sights set on Guyana—a hidden gem filled with pristine rainforests, majestic waterfalls, and endless adventure.
His journey began with a flight to Kaieteur Falls, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. As the tiny plane circled above, Ben peered out the window, his jaw dropping at the sight of the massive cascade plunging 741 feet into the lush jungle below. On the ground, he followed a trail to the edge of the falls, the thunderous roar of water filling the air. Standing on a rock just feet from the edge, Ben marveled at its raw power. “It’s like the Earth is alive,” he thought.
From Kaieteur, Ben headed deep into the Iwokrama Rainforest, a vast expanse of protected jungle that’s home to jaguars, giant river otters, and over 500 species of birds. Staying at the Iwokrama River Lodge, he joined guided treks led by Indigenous Makushi rangers. On one hike, his guide pointed out fresh jaguar tracks in the mud. Later, Ben climbed the Canopy Walkway, a series of suspension bridges 100 feet above the forest floor, where he spotted toucans and colorful parrots flitting through the trees.
In the evenings, Ben relaxed at the lodge, where meals were prepared with locally sourced ingredients, like cassava bread and freshly caught fish. One night, he joined a nighttime river tour on the Essequibo River. With the guide’s spotlight scanning the water, they spotted caimans and the eerie glow of nocturnal animals’ eyes in the dark.
Ben’s final eco-adventure took him to Rewa Eco-Lodge, a remote retreat accessible only by boat. Nestled in the heart of the rainforest, the lodge was run by an Indigenous community dedicated to conservation. Here, he tried his hand at catch-and-release arapaima fishing, aiming to reel in one of the world’s largest freshwater fish. Though he didn’t catch one, the thrill of the attempt was unforgettable.
As his trip came to an end, Ben reflected on Guyana’s wild beauty. The country’s untouched landscapes and deep respect for nature had left a mark on him. For Ben, Guyana wasn’t just an adventure—it was a reminder of the importance of preserving the planet’s most extraordinary places.
