Guyana: Many Peoples, Many Waters

  Guyana

Georgetown

Dates: April

Description: Guyana draws part of its culture from the exuberant Caribbean, Africa, and Asia, its anthropology 10,000 year old cultures, and its ecology from South America biodiversity. To help people discover, learn about and enjoy this rich mix of life, in collaboration with United States Peace Corps Volunteers working on sustainable development and Amerindian communities in Guyana, the International Bicycle Fund is sponsoring a very unique, two-week, cultural and environmental immersion, bike and boat program in Guyana.

Program participants have opportunities to see Georgetown, the capital, with its rich in Dutch and British colonial architecture; to meet Makushi, Arawak and other indigenous people; and to explore an incredible diverse variety of unique ecological zones (savannah, Amazon rainforest and coastal estuary.) We will explore the forest canopies, see a hundred varieties of birds, learn about conservation and sustainable development programs, wander in local markets, enjoy the extraordinary friendliness of the people and bike and boat in this pristine, unspoiled, inspirationally beautiful country. The rich cultural and natural history of the Guiana is an under appreciated treasure. Guyana can be described as "Costa Rica 30 years ago."

Highlights:
- Multiple varieties of macaws, toucans, parrots and dozen of other species
- Personal, gentle hospitality in farming and fishing Makushi and Arawak (Amerindian) communities
- Canopy walk in Amazonian rainforest and interpretive walks on the flora, fauna and fascinating ethno-botany
- Howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, anteaters, sloth, capybara, bats, and other mammals, if lucky, the elusive jaguar
- 4000 year old petroglyphs
- English speaking with adult literacy rate of 98.6%
- Option to visit Kaieteur Falls: the world's highest single drop falls, crimson bird of the rock, gold frogs and worlds largest specie of bromeliad
- Nesting and hatching of endangered sea turtles (seasonal optional extension)

Cost in US$: 1290

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Guyana Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 4-8

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Ibike Tours's Mission Statement: To promote international understanding and cultural sensitivity. Introduce people to the diversity and complexity of the world. Promote sustainable transport, environmental practices and economic development (in unexploited markets.) Have fun.

Year Founded: 1983