Kaieteur Falls & Interior

The journey to Kaieteur Falls is often the highlight of a family trip to Guyana. Located deep in the Amazonian interior on the Potaro River, the falls are five times the height of Niagara. Because there are no roads connecting the falls to the capital, the adventure begins with a light aircraft flight. This hour-long journey offers children a geography lesson from the sky, showcasing the transition from coastal plains to dense, broccoli-like rainforest canopy and winding river systems before landing on a remote airstrip.

Once on the ground in Kaieteur National Park, the experience is surprisingly accessible. The trails leading to the various viewpoints are generally flat and well-maintained, suitable for active children. Guides lead small groups through the bush, pointing out unique flora such as the giant tank bromeliads, which hold liters of water and host their own micro-ecosystems. Sharp-eyed kids might spot the tiny, poisonous Golden Rocket Frog, which lives its entire life inside these plants. The viewpoints themselves offer unobstructed looks at the water plummeting 741 feet into the gorge below; however, there are no guardrails, so parents must keep a firm grip on younger children at all times.

Beyond the falls, the region serves as a rugged introduction to the Guiana Shield. While most visitors come for a day trip, some families with older children choose to stay at basic guesthouses nearby to hear the jungle sounds at night. The weather here is tropical and humid, often shifting quickly between bright sunshine and heavy downpours. It is a place to disconnect completely, as there is no cell service or wifi, allowing families to focus entirely on the sheer scale of nature. The Potaro River above the falls creates a tranquil setting for a brief walk, contrasting sharply with the power of the drop just downstream.