Nestled in the foothills of the rainforest-covered Kanuku Mountains lies what is called Maipaima Eco-Lodge – one of Guyana’s most remote lodges. This lodge is so remote that you will find no phone, no internet or radio access, all of which contributes to a deeper sense of peace and serenity. The lodge is surrounded by tall forest teeming with wildlife, placing you right in the middle of one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. It is just the right place for relaxation and exploration.
Welcome | Image Source: https://maipaimaecolodge.com
Origin Of The Maipaima Eco-Lodge
The lodge was established on the 23rd February, 2006. It was a tourism project identified by the Nappi community which was enacted through the village council with funding and support provided by Foster Parrots Foundation. The lodge is named after the creek that runs next to it; the environment is incredibly biodiverse and creates a place for you to relish the sound and sight of nature.
Nappi Community: The community of Nappi originated from the northern part of Brazil and settled in the forested foothills of the Kanuku Mountains during the 1800s. The community was named after Nabbi, the first person who settled there, who was from the Makushi tribe.
A Cabin | Image Source: https://maipaimaecolodge.com
Amenities At The Maipaima Eco-Lodge
- Rooms: There are four (4) guest rooms in two benabs with mosquito nets. The rooms are basic but have comfortable accommodation for up to eight people. All rooms have an attached bathroom with shower and flush toilet.
- Central Benab: A central benab provides a common dining area as well as a wide verandah ideal for spotting birds, monkeys, and other passing wildlife.
- Food: The food is amazing! Although the lodge is small, many are amazed at how such varied menus could be produced from such a small space! The traditional Amerindian and Continental dishes are incredibly delicious and healthy.
- Exploration & Relaxation: The scenery along with the wildlife are beautiful features to make your trip worthwhile. True, the trip to the lodge isn’t always easy, but once you arrive you’ll know it was worth the effort.
Note: There is limited electricity provided by generator, and fresh water is supplied by the rain.
Be one with Nature | Image Source: https://maipaimaecolodge.com
Activities At The Maipaima Eco-Lodge
- Birding: The variety of birds that can be seen are captivating to the eyes. The scarlet macaws, toucans, parrots and a diverse amount of birds fly over the lodge day in and day out.
- Hiking: Hike in the rainforest, discover various flora and fauna and enjoy nearby streams.
- Napping: Nap in a hammock while nature goes about its business all around you.
- Bat Cave & Cock-of-the-Rock: There is a bat cave to visit plus a Cock-of-the-Rock leak.
- Balata Demonstrations: Local villagers are on hand to demonstrate traditional sculpture with balata, a rubber-like substance harvested sustainably from area trees.
- Wilderness Explorers Tours to the Jordan Falls: This is one of the main reasons why persons come to stay at Maipaima so that they can visit the Jordan Falls. From Maipaima the excursion is a one-day hike to the Jordon Falls. Five hours of moderate hiking brings guests to something resembling a movie set constructed to portray “tropical paradise.” It’s just that good. Hammock camps are set up at the falls to accommodate a leisurely afternoon of swimming and napping, with overnight camping supported by the full-service Maipaima team.
Tip: Maipaima is dedicated to preserving the land and animals with the lowest impact on the environment as possible.
Inside your cabin | Image Source: https://maipaimaecolodge.com
How To Visit Maipaima Eco-Lodge?
Maipaima Eco-Lodge is located in a remote corner of southwestern Guyana, relatively close to Lethem. You can reach Lethem from Georgetown on a daily Trans Guyana Airways flight or take a long minivan ride down the unpaved trans-national highway. Either way, Maipaima will meet you in Lethem and drive you to Nappi Village and onward to the Eco-Lodge. Due to the distances and shortage of vehicles, Maipaima is unable to accommodate walk-on visitors, so book in advance.
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Maipaima Eco-Lodge In Guyana
Organizing a trip to the Maipaima Eco-Lodge will leave you with a memorable feeling that you and your family won’t forget. From the moment you leave home the excitement will begin to kick in, your adrenalin will continue pumped and upon arrival, slowly it will go down as you realize what a beautiful, calm and untroubled area you have entered. You will begin to experience nature at its rawest and most lush. Although there will be no internet access, you won’t miss it because you will be too caught up exploring the wonders of wildlife.
The lodge is very simple, no distractions, helping you to focus on the bigger picture of why you’re there – to see nature at it’s very best. The activities are all so pleasurable especially the hike to the Jordan Falls. That falls and its surroundings are breathtaking, captivating and awe-inspiring. Remember, book in advance if you would like to visit, upon arrival relax and enjoy the remoteness of the lodge!
Article References:
- https://maipaimaecolodge.com/
- https://wilderness-explorers.com/guyana/lodges/maipaima/
- https://www.guyanatimesinternational.com/?p=20336
