Santa Mission

Santa Mission is an Arawak village on the Kamuni Creek, a blackwater tributary running through white sand country west of the Demerara, reached by an hour's boat trip through overhanging forest. It was founded in 1858, and the community makes and sells craft: basketry, carved wood, beadwork and the nibbi and tibisiri fibre work the region is known for. The creek itself, dark water over white sand, is the other half of the trip.

What to look for

• The creek journey - an hour up blackwater under overhanging forest.
• The craft work - basketry, carving and fibre work made and sold in the village.
• The white sand - pale sand banks along the dark water.
• The village - an Arawak community open to arranged visits.

When to go

September to April is drier and the most comfortable. Weekends bring day trips from Georgetown. The wet seasons raise the creek and change the landing points.

Before you go

Boat hire is the main cost and prices should be agreed before departure. The visit is short and largely centred on buying craft. Facilities in the village are minimal.

Nearby

Georgetown is east, and the Demerara river runs north.

Key facts