Mabaruma

Mabaruma is the administrative centre of Guyana's northwest, built on a low ridge above rainforest and swamp after the old capital at Morawhanna was abandoned to flooding. It is a small place of government buildings, a market and scattered housing along the ridge road, with Warrau and Arawak communities in the surrounding area. Fruit grows well here and the region supplies much of the country's coconut and citrus. It is the base for Shell Beach and the northwest rivers.

What you actually see

• The ridge setting - the town strung along a low hill above the forest.
• The market - regional produce, particularly fruit from the surrounding farms.
• The rainforest - dense wet forest running away in every direction.
• The river routes - boat access to the Waini, Barima and the coast.

When to go

September to April is drier and easier for travel. The wet seasons from May to August and November to January bring heavy rain. Flights are weather dependent.

Honest expectations

Access is by air or a long combination of boat and road; there is no direct road from Georgetown. Accommodation is basic and limited. Facilities in town are minimal.

Nearby

Hosororo falls are nearby, and Shell Beach is on the coast north.