The IntraServ service was cancelled, so we decided to travel by minibus from Georgetown. The mini bus travels from Georgetown to Lethem. It doesn’t matter if you are only going half way, you will need to pay whole fare (12000 GUY / 60 US per person). We decided to travel with GuyBraz because they were the only ones leaving on Sundays. They are located in Light Street, in Rockies Hotel, between Robb and North Road. Their telephone number is (225 6375 / 619 1685). But I know that there are more services.
To go to Iwokrama, you will need to be dropped off in Kurupukari Crossing. Iwokrama can arrange transportation from there (5 US). In our case, the mini bus driver was very nice and he dropped us in Iwokrama Resort, so we saved 10 US. In theory someone was to pick us up in the crossing, but that was not the case.
To go to Iwokrama, you will need to be dropped off in Kurupukari Crossing. Iwokrama can arrange transportation from there (5 US). In our case, the mini bus driver was very nice and he dropped us in Iwokrama Resort, so we saved 10 US. In theory someone was to pick us up in the crossing, but that was not the case.
The trip
The trip itself was definitely an experience. Definitely, it is not a comfortable trip. The trip was supposed to take 8 hours. However, due to the condition of the road, it took us 15 hours to reach Iwokrama. It is difficult to describe the ride. Kevin, a nice guide of Iwokrama described it as a rodeo ride. I think that is a fair description. We left Georgetown at 7:30 pm, and didn't get to Iwokrama until 10 am the following day. We couldn't sleep at all. Basically, because we didn't know what to do with our head. There is absolutely no place where to put it. And because the road is extremely bumpy (at least at the end of the rainy season) it was impossible to sleep. We were also stuck in the mud. So men had to push. And we got mud everywhere. At least we were close to our destination. The first thing I did when I arrived to Iwokrama was to swim in the Essequibo, with all my clothe on. We felt sorry for those that still had many hours ahead. Bring your passport! We were required 4 times to show it. And remember to bring something to eat and drink. You might need it. We recommend the front seats, even they might have the downside of having to hear the loud radio. Ear plugs can be an alternative. But those are the only seat where you might be able to sleep a bit.
Iwokrama Field Station
Iwokrama Field Station is the name that they give to the resort. The reason for this is that workers also live there. There are other places to stay within Iwokrama. We considered staying in Atta, but we didn't do it due to budget restrictions. Iwokrama was the most comfortable place we stayed while in Guyana's interior. But at the same time, it is more expensive than the average. We stayed there only one night and we paid 129 US for both of us, including accommodation and three meals. But it was totally worth it. Especially after the minibus experience. We needed a rest. Iwokrama is a wonderful place. Alex was our guide. Despite his young age, he was awesome. Activities are not included in the price. Turtle mountain, a highlight of Iwokrama, was close due to the bad condition of the trail. So we decided to do Caiman spotting. Even we didn't see Caiman, it was almost a new moon night. So the sky was simply incredible. We definitely recommend to spend a night there. It is simply beautiful.
For detailed information about Iwokrama fares and other activities they offer, check their website. You can also find there their contact info. For information about how to travel from Iwokrama to Surama, check the next section. We contacted them through their website, and paid in their office in Georgetown. Ask them what is the procedure if you don't live in Georgetown.
For detailed information about Iwokrama fares and other activities they offer, check their website. You can also find there their contact info. For information about how to travel from Iwokrama to Surama, check the next section. We contacted them through their website, and paid in their office in Georgetown. Ask them what is the procedure if you don't live in Georgetown.