By Bibi Khatoon
Rising in the Acarai Mountains near the Brazil – Guyana border , the Essequibo River flows to the north for 1,014 kilometres into the Atlantic Ocean . The widest of three rivers running through the rich land of Guyana in South America , its many tributaries augment an unrivalled ecosystem of mesmerizing waterfalls , rainforest and amazing wildlife . The river is also home to 365 small islands , some of which boasts its rich Dutch history from the 17th century .
Promising a thrilling boat ride to being able to see the many historical sites found on the islands and opportunity to relax at various riverside resorts , a tour of the Essequibo is a must do .
Some of the major sites to visit include the ruins of the 17th century Dutch Fort on Fort Island , Fort Kyk-over-al , the mining town of Bartica , the Aruwai Resort , Saxacalli Beach , the Baganara Island resort , Bk ’ s Teperu Resort and the Baracara Falls .
Damion Roopchand was the tour guide assigned to take us on one of the many day tours offered by Old Fort tours and Resorts in Tourism Awareness Month 2021 . Roopchand says he enjoys his job as it affords him the opportunity to meet new people on every trip across the vast river .
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