South America's Forgotten Corner - Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana

Itinerary:   

Day 1. Arrival in Georgetown, Guyana

You have to fill out an immigration form for Guyana. (can also be filled out at the airport while you’re waiting - no conditions applied)
Upon arriving in Georgetown, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in the city center. Free time. -/-/-

Day 2. Mahaica River Birdwatching  and Georgetown city tour
Start your day with an early 4:00 AM Mahaica River Birdwatching Tour, one of Guyana’s best nature escapes just an hour from Georgetown. As the sun rises, glide through rice fields, mangroves, and wetlands alive with bird calls. The river is home to Guyana’s national bird, the Hoatzin, as well as the rare Blood-coloured Woodpecker, egrets, herons, snail kites, and even Red Howler Monkeys and river otters. This peaceful dawn journey blends wildlife, landscapes, and insights into local rice-farming communities.
In the afternoon, continue exploring with a Georgetown City Tour from 13:00 to 17:00. Visit the historic St. George’s Cathedral, wander through the lively Stabroek Market, and enjoy the lush Botanical Gardens filled with tropical plants and birdlife. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich cultural mix that shapes Guyana’s capital and discover the city’s unique colonial and multicultural heritage. B/-/-

Day 3. The Kaieteur Falls 
Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure to Kaieteur Falls, one of Guyana’s most treasured natural wonders. You’ll take a scenic flight from Ogle Airport, offering spectacular views of Guyana’s vast rainforest. Upon arrival, feel the power of the falls as the Potaro River plunges 226 meters into the gorge below, making it the world’s tallest single-drop waterfall by volume. Kaieteur Falls is steeped in Amerindian legend. It is said to be named after Chief Kai, a heroic leader of the Patamona tribe who sacrificed himself by paddling over the falls in a gesture of selflessness to appease the great spirit Makonaima. This act, according to legend, ensured the survival of his people during a time of conflict. As you explore the surrounding area, keep an eye out for rare species like the golden rocket frog and the Guianan cock-of-the-rock, which thrive in the untouched rainforest. The visit to Kaieteur Falls offers not only a visual spectacle but also a deep connection to Guyana’s cultural heritage. B/-/-

Day 4. Crossing into Suriname and Arrival in Paramaribo
Leave Georgetown early in the morning and head to the border at Molsen Creek, where you’ll cross the Corentyne River by ferry into Suriname. The journey offers a chance to witness the changing landscapes as you transition between two neighboring countries with distinct histories. Arrive in Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This city, known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, is a fascinating blend of European design and tropical charm. The wooden buildings of the historic inner city, many dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, tell the story of Suriname’s colonial past. Spend the evening settling into your hotel and exploring the lively streets of Paramaribo. B/-/-

Day 5. Exploring Paramaribo
Discover Paramaribo’s rich history with a guided tour of its most significant landmarks. Visit Fort Zeelandia, a 17th-century fortress built by the Dutch to protect their valuable trading port. Over the years, the fort has served as a defense post, a prison, and now a museum showcasing the city’s complex history. At the Presidential Palace, we will admire the grandeur of Dutch colonial architecture and learn about Suriname’s journey from colonization to independence. Nearby, the Independence Square serves as a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and a gathering place for local events. One of the highlights of Paramaribo is the Keizerstraat, where a mosque and a synagogue stand side by side. This unique arrangement reflects Suriname’s remarkable religious tolerance and multicultural heritage, which continues to define its society today. B/-/-

Day 6. Exploring Fort New Amsterdam and Spotting Pink Dolphins
Take a short drive to the Commewijne District, home to Fort New Amsterdam, a 1747 structure strategically located at the confluence of the Suriname and Commewijne rivers. The fort played a critical role in protecting Suriname’s plantations from attacks during the colonial era. Walk through the well-preserved bastions and learn about the struggles faced by enslaved people who once worked on these plantations. Afterwards, we will enjoy a traditional lunch in a nearby fishing village before setting out on a relaxing boat ride along the Commewijne River. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot playful pink river dolphins, a highlight for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. B/-/-

Day 7. The Kourou Space Center, Kourou (French Guiana)
Cross into French Guiana and journey to Kourou, home to the Kourou Space Center (Centre Spatial Guyanais), Europe’s premier spaceport. During your visit, you’ll tour key areas of the facility, including the Jupiter Control Room, where satellite launches are managed and monitored. The high-tech operations of the space center contrast strikingly with the surrounding jungle, creating a unique setting for scientific advancement. The on-site museum offers fascinating exhibits on rocket technology, space exploration, and the role of French Guiana in global aerospace development. This visit highlights the synergy between cutting-edge science and the remote wilderness of South America. B/-/-

Day 8. The Salvation Islands - Cayenne (French Guiana)
Board a catamaran to the Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands), a group of three volcanic islands that were once part of France’s infamous penal system. Explore Île Royale, the largest island, which served as the administrative hub of the colony. Visit the governor’s house and the remnants of the hospital and chapel. On Île Saint-Joseph, walk through the haunting solitary confinement cells, where prisoners endured unimaginable hardships. These islands were made famous by the memoir Papillon, written by Henri Charrière, who detailed his escape from the penal colony. Despite their dark history, the islands are a haven for wildlife, with lush vegetation and stunning ocean views. The contrast between their beauty and their past makes the Salvation Islands a deeply moving destination. B/-/-

Day 9. Departure from Cayenne (French Guiana)
Spend your final morning exploring Cayenne on your own. Its colorful Creole architecture and bustling markets reflect the region’s diverse cultural influences, including French, African, and Amerindian traditions. Take the opportunity to savor local dishes or shop for souvenirs before departing for your next destination.This enhanced itinerary provides a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and natural significance of each destination, making your journey through South America’s forgotten corner truly unforgettable. B/-/-

Optional departure transfer to Paramaribo: 

If your departure flight is from Paramaribo, we can offer additional group transfer back to Paramaribo. Contact us for a quote.

* Please note that the drive back to Paramaribo might take up to 8-9 hours. You are advised to allow enough time in Paramaribo before your flight. It is recommended to add one more overnight in Paramaribo if you fly from there. 

Necessary equipment: hat; light clothes that can quickly get dried; sun protection cream; sun glasses; insects repellent; yellow fever vaccination; comfortable shoes and sandals; bathing suit; first aid kid and medicines like aspirin, against stomach problems etc.

Things to note: 

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory.

• The flight to Kaieteur falls might be cancelled last-minute due to weather conditions.
• The Space Centre in Kourou might be closed for tourist visits if there happens to be a launch during the week of your travel or due to any other operational reasons.

Private tours can be arranged on alternative dates. Please contact us for additional information.