Things To Do
in Mabaruma
Mabaruma is a remote town on Guyana's Barima-Waini coast, serving as the region's administrative hub. Set along the Mabaruma River, it offers a gateway to the rainforest, rivers, and indigenous communities. The town blends Caribbean influences with Indigenous cultures, warm hospitality, and a laid-back pace.
While small, it has colorful markets, coastal scenery, and sturdy guesthouses that welcome adventurous travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Mabaruma, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a traditional Guyanese breakfast featuring fresh fruits and local delicacies. Take a moment to absorb the serene ambiance of this remote community surrounded by lush rainforest. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings by visiting nearby shops and chatting with locals.
After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour of Mabaruma to explore its rich cultural heritage. Discover local art and crafts, and learn about the indigenous communities that reside in the area. Capture stunning photographs of the scenery and interact with residents to gain insight into their daily lives.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local eatery, savoring dishes that highlight Guyanese flavors. Engage with fellow travelers and share stories about your adventures while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the village. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps stargazing or enjoying a local music performance.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trip to the stunning Satala Falls. The journey will take you through picturesque landscapes and dense forests, offering ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. Arrive at the falls and appreciate the breathtaking views that await you.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch by the falls, soaking in the beauty of the cascading waters. If you're feeling adventurous, take a refreshing dip in the natural pools beneath the falls. Capture the moment with photographs and revel in the tranquility of nature.
Return to Mabaruma in the evening to unwind after an exhilarating day. Opt for a casual dinner at a local guesthouse where you can taste various Guyanese dishes. Conclude the evening sharing stories by a bonfire, enjoying the warmth of companionship beneath the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥤Bottled water or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🚕Local transport (short taxi or boat) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and snacks | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a rich blend of cultures
- Proximity to rainforest and river for easy day trips
- Quiet and authentic Caribbean-Guyanese experience
- Affordable guesthouses and basic services
- Limited medical facilities and services in town
- Remote location with long travel times to major cities
- Seasonal weather can disrupt transport and activities
- Fewer nightlife and dining options than larger towns
- "Wah gwaan?" - What's up?
- "Plis" - Please
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
- "Scuse me" - Excuse me
- "Ow much?" - How much?
- "Weh de market?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Mabaruma
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, palm-lined banks, and warm light reflecting off the water.
Vibrant textures, tropical fruits, fish, and daily life scenes.
A simple vantage point to capture the town and river from above.
Historic architecture and daily life provide classic portrait opportunities.
Food in Mabaruma
Mabaruma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked meat stew with cassareep, typically served with rice.
Must-Try!
One-pot rice dish with beans, meat or fish, and vegetables.
Fresh river fish fried crackly and served with cassava bread.
Fish simmered in a coconut-spiced curry served over rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning market offering fresh fruit, cassava bread, spices, and quick bites.
Casual stalls along the river offering fried fish, plantains, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with a smile and handshake; address elders with respect.
Ask before taking photos of people or villages; show courtesy when visiting communities.
Wear light, breathable clothing; modesty is appreciated in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Mabaruma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 10-15% in sit-down restaurants if service is not included; small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash (GYD or USD) is widely used in Mabaruma; credit cards are rarely accepted in small shops; carry small bills for market purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny days with lower rainfall; great for hiking and boat trips, but higher heat and more crowds.
Frequent tropical rain showers and lush landscapes; plan for slower travel and muddy trails, but excellent birdwatching.
Mabaruma at Night
Hiking in Mabaruma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short rainforest stroll along the riverbank with birdlife and stream crossings.
Guided hike through lush forest leading to a small waterfall; requires a local guide.
Longer route combining village visits with forest scenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Mabaruma by plane.
Regional airstrip serving domestic flights to Georgetown and nearby towns; plan ahead for weather windows.
Main international hub; many domestic connections to Mabaruma after arriving in Georgetown.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Wayana and Lokono groups live in the region; their crafts, languages, and traditions enrich the area.
Contribute to cultural and culinary diversity; English creole is widely spoken in daily life.
A small mix of families and travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and weekend activity across Guyana, with local matches and pickup games.
Community leagues and informal games are common; often played on riverfront fields or clearings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mabaruma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find plant-based dishes such as rice and beans, cassava, plantains, and vegetable curries; communicate needs and many places can customize.