VALLEY OF THE GIANTS

Home to some of the world’s largest species, this stunning corner of South America is the perfect destination for nature-lovers and bird-watchers alike

With a diverse landscape of swaying savannahs, lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls and mighty rivers, Guyana is a truly breathtaking slice of paradise. But what’s so surprising about this small South American country is that in an age of mass tourism, it remains largely undiscovered.

Guyana’s incredible wilderness is teaming with an abundance of native flora and fauna, including more than 900 migrant and resident birds. As jaguars roam, harpy eagles soar overhead and howler monkeys can be heard echoing throughout the rainforest – if you’re seeking nature and adventure, you won’t be disappointed here.

A powerful predator

Lurking in freshwater habitats, the Black Caiman is the largest predator in the Amazon eco-system, and a giant of the reptile family, growing up to six metres in length. With its black scaly skin, marked with pale yellow or white banding across the body, and distinctive red eyes, it’s easy to spot as it patrols the slowmoving rivers and lakes.

This enormous reptile will take any bird, fish or mammal that comes within range – its teeth are designed to grab rather than rip, so it drowns its prey before swallowing it whole. It has no predators other than man, who almost hunted it to extinction for its meat and leather, but now it’s making a comeback, thanks to its conservation-dependent status, allowing visitors to Guyana to see this magnificent creature in its natural environment once again.