The reserve boasts exceptional biodiversity with over 130 mammal species, including iconic species like the jaguar, giant river otter, giant anteater, and eight primate species. The area supports more than 500 bird species, including the harpy eagle, Guianan cock-of-the-rock, and numerous parrots and macaws. Reptiles and amphibians are well-represented with over 100 species, including black caiman, anacondas, and various poison dart frogs. The reserve is also home to over 420 fish species and countless invertebrates, making it one of the most species-rich areas in the Guiana Shield.
Iwokrama contains pristine lowland tropical rainforest with over 1,500 known plant species. The forest features diverse vegetation types including primary rainforest, mountain forest, dry evergreen forest, and seasonally flooded forest. Notable species include the giant mora tree, greenheart, wallaba, and numerous orchids and bromeliads. The reserve is home to many medicinal plants traditionally used by indigenous communities, as well as commercially valuable timber species. The canopy reaches heights of up to 50 meters, creating distinct layers of vegetation that support various ecological niches.
The reserve features diverse geological formations dominated by the Iwokrama Mountains, which are part of the ancient Guiana Shield formation dating back to the Precambrian era. The landscape includes steep rocky outcrops, plateaus, and valleys ranging from 50 to 900 meters above sea level. The area is characterized by well-drained brown sandy soils in the uplands and poorly-drained clay soils in the lowlands. Notable geological features include the Iwokrama Mountains' granite formations and numerous rapids along the Essequibo River, which runs through the reserve.
The Iwokrama Forest was established in 1996 as part of Guyana's commitment to the Commonwealth Programme on Forests. Named after the Iwokrama Mountains, the area has been home to indigenous Makushi people for thousands of years. The reserve was created through an agreement between the Government of Guyana and the Commonwealth Secretariat to develop a model for sustainable tropical forest management and conservation. The 371,000-hectare reserve represents a unique international partnership combining rainforest conservation, tourism, and sustainable resource use while respecting indigenous rights and knowledge.
Key attractions include the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, a series of suspended bridges 30 meters above the forest floor offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. The Iwokrama River Lodge and Research Centre serves as the main visitor facility, providing accommodation and research facilities. The reserve features numerous hiking trails, including the Turtle Mountain trail offering panoramic views of the forest. The Essequibo River provides opportunities for boat tours and fishing. Cultural attractions include visits to Makushi villages and demonstrations of traditional practices. The reserve also contains several research stations and serves as a living laboratory for studying sustainable forest management and climate change.
Iwokrama experiences a tropical rainforest climate with two wet seasons (May-August and December-January) and two dry seasons (February-April and September-November). Average temperatures range from 23°C to 32°C (73-90°F) year-round, with high humidity levels typically between 80-90%. Annual rainfall averages around 2,500mm (98 inches), with the heaviest precipitation occurring during the main wet season from May to August. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons when trails are more accessible and wildlife viewing opportunities are optimal.
Guyana
4.6670°, -58.6830°
1996
3710
Iwokrama Forest is a vast wilderness area of pristine rainforest in central Guyana. The reserve is known for its exceptional biodiversity and serves as a living laboratory for tropical forest management and conservation. It contains numerous research facilities and is home to endangered species like the jaguar, giant river otter, and harpy eagle.