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Waterfall · Lethem, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo
Moco-Moco Falls
The waterfall on the slope of the Kanuku mountains, about 15 km from Lethem, with pools for swimming and a stairway that climbs beside the falls; nearby is the Kumu waterfall.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Moco-Moco Falls
The Moco-Moco waterfall descends in several drops over the rocks of the Kanuku mountains' slope, about 15 km northeast of Lethem, near the village of the same name. Between the falls are cold-water pools popular with Lethem residents for bathing and picnicking, especially on weekends.
Beside the falls, a long stairway, known as the 999 steps, climbs the slope up to the ruins of a small hydroelectric plant that no longer works. From the top, the view opens over the Rupununi savanna.
A few kilometers away is the Kumu waterfall, in the village of Kumu, connected to St. Ignatius. It has tiered stone falls reached by short trails, and is managed by the village council, which maintains thatch-covered rest areas and charges an entrance fee.
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
Half a day; a full day combining Moco-Moco and Kumu.
Best time
At the end of the rainy season and the start of the dry season, from August to November, the falls tend to have more water. At the peak of the dry season the volume decreases. From May to August the dirt roads become slower.
How to get there
Moco-Moco is about 15 km from Lethem, and Kumu is also at the foot of the Kanuku, near St. Ignatius, along the dirt roads that lead to the foot of the Kanuku. Go with a driver or on a tour arranged in Lethem.
Tip
Wear shoes with good grip: the stones are slippery. Bring water and a snack, and climb the stairway slowly. In Kumu, follow the village rules.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Moco-Moco Falls
Can you bathe in the Moco-Moco waterfall?
Yes, in the pools between the falls, which residents of Lethem use for bathing and picnics. Watch out for slippery rocks.
What are the 999 steps of Moco-Moco?
A staircase beside the waterfall that climbs up to the ruins of a small hydroelectric plant that no longer works. From the top, the view opens onto the savanna.
What's the difference between Moco-Moco and Kumu?
They are two waterfalls at the foot of the Kanuku, a short distance from each other. Kumu is managed by the village, which charges an entrance fee and maintains rest areas; many tours combine both in the same day.