GUYANA : RUMBLING IN THE JUNGLE
2009-03-30Here’s something to marvel at. In the heart of Guyana’s jungle, on the winding Potaro River (a short plane hop from Georgetown) you’ll find one of the world’s natural wonders: the mighty Kaieteur falls.
Flowing over sandstone tableland into a deep gorge, the water drops a massive 822 feet, or five times the height of Niagara falls, making it one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.
It’s force not only comes from its height but also its volume, as the water flows over the lip at 663 cubic meters per second (that’s a lot). Historically, the waterfall is named after a Patamona tribe chief who canoed over the falls to encourage spirits to save his tribe from savage enemies. Head here for spectacular and rare wildlife. Guyana’s elusive national symbol, the Cock-of-the-rock, nestles close by and the tiny Golden frog also lives in the area. Hundreds of unusual birds nest behind the rock shelf, sheltered from the curtain of water. Yet another impressive sight in an intriguing, undiscovered country. Intrigued? Black Tomato has a trip which incorporates Guyana, French Guiana and Suriname.
www.blacktomato.co.uk, or call 0207 610 9008 for more information.
