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Destination

Kaieteur Falls

Country: Guyana Updated:

Kaieteur is a powerful single-drop waterfall on the Potaro River in Guyana's national park of the same name. The water plunges about 226 metres into a deep gorge, surrounded by almost continuous tropical forest of the Guiana Shield and habitats of rare endemic species.

AI illustration of Kaieteur Falls above a tropical gorge in Guyana
Image: AI illustration · Rights: no public licence for reuse has been specified.

When to go

The waterfall carries particularly large volumes of water after rainier weeks; September to November is often considered an impressive time to visit. However, clouds, heavy rain and wind can delay or cancel small aircraft throughout the year, so a spare day is useful.

Things to see and do

Fly in with an authorised tour, walk with a ranger to the Rainbow, Boy Scout and Johnson viewpoints, and observe the forest, Guianan cock-of-the-rock and tiny golden frog without leaving the trails. Respect the site's spiritual importance to the Patamona.

Practical tips

The gorge edges lack the usual protective railings; keep well back, follow the rangers and supervise children especially closely. Choose a reliable operator, clarify the emergency plan and obtain insurance covering medical evacuation from remote areas.

Getting there and getting around

Most visitors fly by small aircraft from Georgetown, usually from Ogle Airport, then take a short guided walk. Confirm the flight on the day of travel, strict baggage limits and a safe transfer to the airfield.

Where to stay

For a day trip, accommodation in Georgetown with a reliable transfer is convenient. For a combined trip into the interior, book only verified ecolodges with confirmed communications, meals and an evacuation plan.

What to try

Try pepperpot, cook-up rice, metemgee, cassava bread, fish and fresh tropical fruit.

Official sources

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