Guyana, the land of waterfalls
Guyana in South America is defined by wilderness, with over 80% of its land covered by rainforest. Its landscapes range from lowland jungle and ancient sandstone plateaus to remote savannahs.
Often called “The Land of Giants,” Guyana’s nickname is inspired by the sheer scale of its natural landscapes and hundreds of waterfalls scattered across the country.
Guyana’s dramatic landscape is shaped by the Guiana Shield, one of the oldest geological formations on Earth. Ancient tepuis, deep river gorges, and forested highlands combine to create some of South America’s most striking waterfall scenery.
This guide highlights the standout waterfalls in Guyana and the landscapes that make them unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- The best Guyana waterfalls to visit
- A spotlight on Kaieteur Falls and its dramatic setting
- The lesser-known Guyana waterfalls
- The highlights of each Guyana waterfall
- What makes each waterfall location unique
- Practical considerations when you visit Guyana
The best Guyana waterfalls
The magnificent Kaieteur Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Guyana, South America, but what about other Guyana waterfalls? Which are worth the trek? Here’s our pick of the best:
- Kaieteur Falls - iconic and awe-inspiring
- Orinduik Falls - scenic and swimmable
- Uchi Falls - wild and dramatic
- Kumu Falls - cultural and accessible
Let’s take a closer look at them.
Kaieteur Falls
Kaieteur Falls, Guyana, is iconic for a reason. It delivers sheer scale and raw power in one of the most remote settings on Earth.
Where is it?
The biggest Guyana waterfall, Kaieteur Falls, is found in Kaieteur National Park, on the Potaro River, in central-western Guyana.
What is there to see?
The Kaieteur Falls setting is as dramatic as the waterfall itself. The Potaro Plateau is a broad expanse of ancient sandstone (2 billion years old!) that the Potaro River flows across before plunging into a vast gorge. A 226-metre drop into a mist-filled chasm.
On clear days, you can see across miles of uninterrupted forest. The plateau is exposed and windswept, dotted with low shrubs and open rock formations. The gorge below supports lush, moisture-loving vegetation. This contrast between open highland and deep rainforest creates a powerful visual duality.
Why it’s special
Unlike many famous waterfalls, Kaieteur Falls in Guyana has no nearby towns, roads, or infrastructure beyond minimal park facilities. The area is ecologically unique and home to many endemic species. The golden rocket frog, Kaieteur swift, and carnivorous plants are all examples of wildlife you can spot here.
Standing at four times the height of Niagara Falls, the impressive thunder of the Kaieteur Falls can be heard long before you see it.
How to get to Kaieteur Falls
Most visitors to Kaieteur Falls get there in a small 12-seater aircraft from Georgetown. Because of the remoteness of the Kaieteur Falls location, there aren’t any scheduled flights. So you need to charter one yourself or take one as part of a Guyana tour.
Difficulty level
Easy. Trails and viewpoints at Kaieteur Falls are well-maintained.
How close can you get to Kaieteur Falls?
You can get surprisingly close to Kaieteur Falls from several designated viewpoints near the brink of the falls. These award you sweeping views of the gorge and river. Swimming is not permitted.
Kaiteur Falls highlights and facts
- The world's largest single-drop waterfall by volume of water, dispatching in excess of 136,200 litres of water per second
- Surrounded by uninterrupted remote rainforest featuring a dramatic river gorge
- Total height of 251 m (823 ft) with an astonishing 226 m (741 ft) single drop
- During the rainy season, the falls can reach 122 m (400 ft) in width
Orinduik Falls
Set in open savannah, Orinduik Falls is a completely different waterfall experience from Guyana’s other rainforest giants.
Where is it?
Within the Pakaraima mountain foothills, Orinduik Falls lies on the Ireng River, which separates Guyana and Brazil.
What is there to see?
Unlike the rainforest setting of Kaieteur, Orinduik Falls is surrounded by open savannah and low rocky hills. The river flows over layers of jasper sandstone, creating wide terraces and pools. The landscape here feels expansive and airy, with distant hills and grasslands replacing dense jungle.
Why it’s special
The stepped formation, red-hued rock, and calmer water create a striking contrast to Guyana’s larger vertical falls. The open terrain allows for wide views and a sense of space. It’s highly photogenic and an easy add-on to tours of Kaieteur Falls. This is one of the few major waterfalls in Guyana where visitors can safely enter the water during suitable conditions.
How to get there
Access is typically by small aircraft or as part of a multi-stop interior itinerary in Guyana.
Difficulty level
Easy to moderate, with short walks over uneven rock surfaces. Water shoes are recommended, and depending on the time of year, visitors should exercise caution - don’t underestimate the force of the falls!
How close can you get?
Very close. In calm conditions, visitors can wade or swim in designated areas.
Orinduik Falls highlights and facts
- More than 150 m across as a series of cascades over terrace steps
- The other side of the river lands you in Brazil - local villagers often swim across from the Brazil side to sell crafts
- One of the few major waterfalls in Guyana, where you can swim - there are even wash and changing rooms
- Orinduik and Kaieteur Falls are only 20 mins flight time apart
Uchi Falls (King George VI Falls)
Powerful, remote, and rarely visited, Uchi Falls (also known as the King George VI Waterfall) is a true wilderness waterfall - hidden and remote.
Where is it?
Uchi Falls are on the Oshi River in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of western Guyana near the Venezuelan border, amid dense tropical rainforest.
What is there to see?
Enclosed by dense, untouched rainforest and steep riverbanks, Uchi Falls carve a deep gorge that emphasises the waterfall’s scale. Highland ridges rise beyond the forest in the distance, giving the surrounding area a sense of isolation and grandeur. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife, including birds and river species.
Why it’s special
Uchi Falls is one of Guyana’s most powerful waterfalls. A high volume of water surges through a narrow gorge submerged by mist, revealing itself dramatically. The surrounding rainforest feels dense and untouched, reinforcing the sense of remoteness.
Because of its location, this waterfall is only seen on longer expeditions, making it a true prize for adventure travellers.
How to get there
Access to Uchi Falls requires air travel to the nearby settlement, Paruima. This journey is followed by an overland trek with experienced guides.
Difficulty level
Moderate to challenging, depending on water levels and route. The trek through forest and along rivers requires stamina.
How close can you get?
You can safely reach river vantage points that get you surprisingly close to the falls. Swimming depends on water levels and safety conditions.
Uchi Falls highlights and facts
- The waterfall is locally known as Salto Oshi or Oshi Falls after the Oshi River. King George VI Falls is a Western naming. Uchi Falls is the most widely used pronunciation and spelling.
- The falls were first reported to the Western world in 1938 by American entomologist and physician Paul A. Zahl, who documented them during his exploration of Guyana.
- To visit Paruima, visitors need permission from local authorities and the Office of Indigenous Affairs. If you book with a reputable trekking company, they should organise this.
- Trekking to Uchi Falls from Paruima also involves stopping at the incredible Kamarang Falls - a powerful, multi-tiered waterfall with a raw, untamed feel, seen by few.
Kumu Falls
A trip to Guyana isn’t complete without learning about its indigenous culture. Kumu Falls is a wonderful, intimate waterfall experience usually visited as part of a cultural eco-trekking tour.
Where is it?
Located about 30 miles from Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Kumu Falls lies at the foot of the Kanuku Mountains in the village of Kumu, Southern Guyana.
What is there to see?
You can walk through savannah edge vegetation and gentle bushland before reaching the first tier of waterfalls. Beautiful cascades flow over layered rock shelves, creating gentle drops and natural pools. If you’re willing to explore further upstream, larger cascades surrounded by multi-coloured foliage await.
Why it’s special
Kumu Falls is smaller in scale compared to the others listed above, but it’s rich in cultural significance. It’s closely tied to local Indigenous communities, and the surrounding area offers opportunities to learn about traditional lifestyles. This waterfall is as much about connection to the community as scenery.
Visiting here gives you the chance to explore the dense Rupununi rainforests and the incredible wildlife that lives there.
How to get there
Kumu Falls can be reached by road from Lethem, followed by a short 10-minute walk through well-marked paths to the lower layers of the falls.
Difficulty level
Easy. The walk to the first and second tiers is suitable for most fitness levels.
How close can you get?
You can get very close to the waterfalls, step onto the rocks, and dip into natural pools in safe conditions during lower water flows.
Kumu Falls highlights and facts
- It’s a popular local picnic spot where visitors enjoy the sounds of cascading water and shade from surrounding greenery. The clear, refreshing natural pools are great for cooling off in the tropical heat
- Kumu Falls is a community-managed site, with local entry fees supporting village livelihoods
- The falls lie at the foot of the Kanuku Mountains, benefiting from sweeping views and easy access to hikes toward peaks like Schomburgk’s Peak
- There are lots of opportunities to connect with the local community, learn about traditional Guyanese culture, and join in activities.
Helpful tips when you visit Guyana
Whether you’re visiting waterfalls as part of a Guyana holiday or a longer travel adventure around the country, it’s worth understanding some key details to help you get the most out of your trip.
- Prepare to use varied transport. Many areas of Guyana’s interior are accessible only by small aircraft, riverboat, or long overland travel. Roads into the interior can be rough, unpaved, or washed out during the wet season.
- Seek out guided travel in Guyana. Using a reputable tour operator with local guides ensures better safety, logistical support, and knowledge of conditions and wildlife.
- Anticipate changes to accessibility. Guyana has a distinct rainy season that can raise river levels. While this can enhance waterfall views, it can also disrupt travel plans.
- Have respect for Indigenous lands and protected areas. Seek permission where required, be mindful of cultural norms and conservation guidelines.
- Protect your health and safety. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria and dengue are present in Guyana, so bring good insect repellent and consider prophylaxis. Carry travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, and stick to safe drinking water.
- Pack appropriately for terrain and conditions. This should include layered clothing, sturdy footwear, and waterproof gear, especially when moving between rainforest, savannah, and highland environments.
Explore Guyana’s Waterfalls with Kandoo Adventures
Exploring Guyana’s waterfalls requires local knowledge, careful planning, and a deep respect for the environment. Taking the time to learn more about Guyana adds valuable context to journeys through its remote rainforests and savannahs.
Kandoo Adventures specialises in creating immersive journeys, connecting travellers with expert guides and remote landscapes. From seamless logistics to responsible travel practices, Kandoo ensures you experience Guyana’s waterfalls in an authentic, safe, and unforgettable way.
When you’re ready to go beyond the ordinary, Kandoo Adventures Guyana trips are the way to do it.