What do you get when you mix the chilled-out vibe of the Caribbean and the untouched natural beauty of the Amazons? The answer is easy — Guyana! One of the world’s most stunning but untreaded countries.

The South American nation appeals to a diverse set of travelers — adventure lovers, those crazy about nature and the wilderness, history enthusiasts, serious birders, volunteers, researchers and those who want to stay with local communities in the rainforest or out on the vast savannahs.

We’ve picked the top five things that should make the bucket list of everyone who travels to Guyana:

Kaieteur Falls

This experience involves a 12-seater Cessna airplane and a 741-foot-tall cascade — the world’s highest single drop waterfall. That’s enough to get any adventure seeker excited. But you can up the ante by an adventure-filled overland trek to the falls.

Rupununi Rodeo

Is “swashbuckling” still a thing? Because that perfectly describes the local vaqueros (cowboys) whose amazing skills are on display during the annual Rupununi Rodeo during the Easter weekend. Bareback bronco, saddle bronco, bull riding, whipping, barrel races and lassoing are some of the competitions during the two-day event in Lethem.

Pakaraima Safari

Throw caution to the wind and get behind the wheel of a 4×4 Land Rover during an exciting eight-day safari through the Pakaraima region. You’ll traverse steep rainforest mountains and valleys, cross gushing rivers and meet friendly people in the villages along the way. Don’t forget to pack your hammock!

Iwokrama Forest

Visit the Iwokrama Protected Area in the heart of the country for a quick lesson in tropical wildlife, birding and flora. Tapirs, caimans, anacondas, giant river otters, capybaras — and if you’re really lucky, the elusive jaguar — can be spotted here.

Fishing the Burro Burro

Spend a day angling for piranhas and other fish with a local guide along the Burro Burro River. The Surama Eco Lodge — Guyana’s first community run lodge — makes it the perfect base for a fishing expedition. More intrepid travelers can camp along the river and wait for the catch of their life – the giant arapaima!

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