Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Belgium
Denmark
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Sweden
Switzerland
Ranch · Lethem, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo
Karanambu
Former cattle ranch on the banks of the Rupununi River, in the north of the savannah, now a lodge and conservation area known for ariranhas, giant anteaters and giant water lilies.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Karanambu
Karanambu is located in the north of the Rupununi, in an area of about 285 km² of savannah, lagoons and riparian forest that includes almost 50 km of the Rupununi River. The ranch was occupied in 1927 by the McTurk family and operated as a cattle farm and a balata collection post, the forest latex. Over time it became a lodge and a conservation area, known for its work with giant otters.
Boat trips along the river and lagoons often show giant otters, large caimans, waterbirds and, at dusk, the giant water lily opening its flowers. In the savannah, guides take visitors to look for the giant anteater in the early morning hours. The region's bird list exceeds 600 species, and the rivers hold fish such as the pirarucu.
Surrounding the ranch are makushi villages, such as Yupukari and Massara. Accommodation is provided at the ranch's own lodge, with meals and excursions included.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three days, with overnight stay.
Best time
From September to April, in the dry season, when animals concentrate near the water and the tracks are better. To see the anteater and birds, go in the early morning; for the giant water lily, late afternoon. Confirm beforehand whether the lodge is accepting guests.
How to get there
It is about 70 km from Lethem as the crow flies, via dirt roads and river crossings; the most common practice is to arrange transport with the lodge, which also has an airstrip for small planes.
Tip
Book in advance and arrange transport with the lodge. Bring binoculars, insect repellent, a hat and light long-sleeved clothing. Do not feed or approach the animals.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Karanambu
What can you see in Karanambu?
Giant otters, black caimans and birds on boat trips along the Rupununi River, the giant anteater in the savanna, and the victoria-regia opening at the end of the afternoon. Seeing animals depends on the season and luck.
How to get to Karanambu?
By dirt roads from Lethem or Annai, with transport arranged with the lodge, or by small plane to the ranch airstrip.
How many days should you stay in Karanambu?
Two to three days allow you to do the boat trips, the early-morning savanna outings and the late-afternoon time with the victoria-regia.