Michelle's Island
Michelle's Island is on the Essequibo River in Guyana.
Understand
Michelle's Island is a privately owned small island located on the Essequibo River, close to Kurupukari village and Iwokrama River Lodge. Michelle Fredericks, the owner, runs a snackette (snack stall) on the Georgetown side of the river, from where it takes a minute to reach the island by small motorboat. It's a perfect retreat to break you trans-Guyana trip and to relax for a couple of days. Visitors are rare but this is going to change.
Get in
All the minibuses that ply the Linden-Lethem road stop here to cross the Essequibo river by ferry. Michelle’s mobile is +592 6395716. Normally the driver of your minibus knows Michelle and can call her to meet you. In a dry season the island is connected to the mainland, in a wet season you need the owner's boat to reach it.
Get around
To get around you can either walk or hop on the minibus. Minibuses stop here to cross the river so you have a chance to negotiate the price. Be aware that most minubuses pass the river crossing in the morning and in the evening. During the day the transport is rare.
See
On the island there are a small sandy beach, some mango trees with fruits and even a small waterfall. Michelle is always ready to help with a local advice. Iwokrama River Lodge is just a walk away that means you are surrounded by the same nature that is offered there for a way higher prices. To visit Atta Canopy you need to ride a minubus.
Do
Bogna and Radek blog has more information about traveling in Rupununi on the cheap.
Buy
Two snakettes on the Georgetown side of river offer simple snacks, fast food and drinks.
Eat
For additional money the owner will cook for you. The food is local and delicious. Plenty of mango can be found on the groundǃ
Drink
You can't buy alcohol here, so come prepared.
Sleep
The island has several cabañas equipped with beds and mosquito nets. Electricity is available in the evenings. Accommodation is very affordable by Guyanese standards. The owner has a plan to build the cheaper hammock shelter.
Go next
It's a long way by minibus to both Georgetown and Lethem.