Iwokrama opens camp for 'overnighting' adventurers
Guyana Chronicle
April 15, 2004
IWOKRAMA International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development has opened a new camp for adventurers desirous of staying overnight at Turtle Mountain, in the Iwokrama Forest of central Guyana.
The structure was built by Iwokrama in partnership with Trekforce, a British volunteer conservation service organisation.
According to a statement from the centre, construction, which took just over two months, reflects the level of cooperation possible between people from diverse backgrounds willing to work together for a common cause.
The camp is located at the foot of Turtle Mountain near Paddle Rock Creek, a refuge for peccaries, labbas, tapirs, agouties, jaguars and other wildlife. Turtle Mountain is a key feature that provides one of Iwokrama Forest's signature vistas.
Turtle Mountain Base Camp is a comprehensive facility for groups of up to 30 individuals who wish to stay in the heart of the rainforest.
The statement said the three benabs, circular huts with palm frond roofs at the camp can accommodate up to 10 guests each.
The camp has hammocks, running water, toilets, washrooms and a kitchen and dining area for the comfort of visitors.
The camp represents an important addition to the facilities that Iwokrama offers to visitors, including tourists, researchers and youth groups.
With this addition, Iwokrama says it can now host up to 80 persons overnight in various parts of the Iwokrama Forest.
The centre is seeking to link people to the forest, and the Turtle Mountain facility provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience tropical forest sights and sounds.
Turtle Mountain Base Camp is part of Iwokrama's eco-tourism development programme, which is integrated with the strategy for developing tourism in the Rupununi and Guyana.