Michelle's Island
Michelle's Island is a privately owned island on the Essequibo River, close to Kurupukari village and Iwokrama River Lodge in Guyana. It can be a retreat to break your trans-Guyana trip and to relax for a couple of days.
Understand[edit]
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. Visitors are rare but this is going to change.
Get in[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
Bogna and Radek blog has more information about traveling in Rupununi on the cheap.
Buy[edit]
Two snackettes on the Georgetown side of river offer simple snacks, fast food and drinks.
Eat[edit]
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[edit]
You can't buy alcohol here, so come prepared.
Sleep[edit]
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[edit]
It's a long way by minibus to both Georgetown and Lethem.