Plizio Visual Lab
Kanuku Mountains
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Kanuku Mountains are a prominent mountain range in southwestern Guyana, effectively bisecting the Rupununi Savannah into northern and southern regions. The name 'Kanuku' means 'forest' in the local Wapishana language, reflecting the dense, pristine rainforest that carpets the steep slopes and peaks, which reach up to 1,070 meters. This area is celebrated as one of Guyana's most biodiverse regions, home to approximately 70% of all mammal species found in the country. In 2011, the Kanuku Mountains were officially designated as a Protected Area to safeguard critical habitats for species such as the Harpy Eagle, the giant river otter, and the jaguar. For centuries, the mountains have been the ancestral grounds for the Macushi and Wapishana indigenous peoples, who maintain a sustainable relationship with the forest's resources. Geologically, the range is composed of ancient Precambrian rocks that form part of the stable Guiana Shield. The mountains also play a vital role in the local hydrology, acting as a catchment area for numerous streams that feed the Rupununi River system.
- Location: Guyana
- Nearby: Aishalton (39 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 24 | 27 | 35 | 110 | 275 | 281 | 252 | 176 | 80 | 59 | 50 | 46 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The main gateway to the mountains is the town of Lethem, from which visitors can arrange off-road transport to villages at the foothills. Accessing deeper areas requires strenuous hiking with local indigenous guides.
Best season
The dry season, typically extending from September to April, is crucial for visiting, as roads in the surrounding savannah remain passable. The dry conditions also reduce the prevalence of mosquitos.
Terrain & paths
The mountain range features steep, thickly forested slopes that rise abruptly from the surrounding flat savannah. Trails are often unmaintained, very rugged, and involve navigating dense undergrowth.
What to bring
Essential equipment includes lightweight, tear-resistant clothing, strong jungle boots, and a reliable machete if clearing paths. A high-quality hammock with a mosquito net is standard for overnight stays.
Parking
Vehicles are best secured in Lethem or parked within the surrounding indigenous communities with permission from village leaders. There is no vehicular access beyond the very outer edges of the mountain foothills.
Safety
Visitors must respect local indigenous territories and travel with community-approved guides who know the landscape. Be prepared for encounters with diverse wildlife, including venomous reptiles and large predators.
Time needed
A superficial visit to the foothills can be done in a single day from Lethem, but true exploration takes much longer. Serious trekking and wildlife observation expeditions typically span three to seven days.
Geography
Facts
- The highest point in the Kanuku Mountains is 1,070 meters (3,510 feet).
- The mountains were declared a protected area in 2011.
- The range contains about 70% of Guyana's known mammal species.
- The Harpy Eagle, the world's most powerful raptor, nests here.
- The mountains serve as a natural watershed for the Rupununi region.
- The area is home to 18 indigenous communities living on its periphery.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Kanuku mean?
In the Wapishana language, it means 'forest' or 'mountains with lots of forest'.
What animals live in the Kanuku Mountains?
They home an enormous variety, including Harpy Eagles, jaguars, and giant otters.
Are the mountains protected?
Yes, they are designated as a National Protected Area.
Can you go hiking there?
Yes, but trails are limited and expeditions require local guides from the Rupununi region.
How do you reach the Kanuku Mountains?
The mountains are clearly visible from Lethem and accessible via unpaved tracks.
Kanuku Mountains: where is it located?
Kanuku Mountains is located in Guyana.
Kanuku Mountains: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Kanuku Mountains: why is it worth visiting?
The Kanuku Mountains are a prominent mountain range in southwestern Guyana, effectively bisecting the Rupununi Savannah into northern and southern regions.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Guyana →
Nearby cities
Lethem
Lethem is an important administrative center and one of the most significant cities in Guyana's UT region.
Aishalton
Aishalton is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Annai
Annai is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Surama
Surama is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Rewa
An indigenous village at the confluence of the Rewa and Rupununi rivers, a pioneer in community-based eco-tourism.
Iwokrama Forest
A pristine rainforest conservation area known for its immense biodiversity and spectacular canopy walkway.
Gunns
Gunns is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
History & landmarks
Nature
Takutu River
A border river between Guyana and Brazil in the south of the country, flowing into the Rio Branco.
🗺️
Rewa River
A picturesque river in a pristine jungle environment, known for the Rewa Eco-Lodge located there.
🗺️
Rupununi River
A river flowing through the vast Rupununi savannahs in southwestern Guyana.
Essequibo River
The longest and most important river in Guyana, traversing the country from south to north.
More places
Rupununi Savannah Wildlife
A vast savannah landscape that is home to rare species such as the giant anteater and the jaguar.
🗺️
Rupununi Savanna
An extensive grassland in the southwest that transforms into a massive wetland during the rainy season.
🗺️
Mount Wating
Mount Wating rises in the southern Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region, offering a rugged, rocky landscape.
Mapari Wilderness
A remote and inaccessible rainforest area in the Kanuku Mountains, characterized by rare animals and clear streams.
Caiman House Sanctuary
A field station in Yupukari that specializes in the conservation of the black caiman and involves guests in research.
🗺️
Karanambu Wetlands
A famous lodge and wetland area in the Rupununi Savannah, known for its giant otter conservation efforts.
Santa Fe Mega Farm
A huge agricultural project in the Rupununi region, growing rice, corn, and soybeans on a large scale in the dry savannah climate.
Upper Takutu Forest
A vast forest region in the deep south that acts as an ecological bridge between the Amazon forests and the Guiana Shield.