The Rock View Lodge VISITORS’ GUIDE to one of the most beautiful natural places on Earth

North Rupununi Wetlands, Annai – Our niece Miriam, enjoying the swimming pool.

What is so special about Rock View?

Rock View is one of the most relax- A daily delight is the stream of ing and comfortable places to stay schoolchildren, on foot or on bicy- in the North Rupununi. It has the cles, who have right of way through Rock View as a hub to the beautiful Rupununi most unique blend of people, cul- Rock View on their way to the Annai ture, cuisine, art, agriculture and Primary School at one end and the Acknowledgements tour activities, and its commitment Annai Secondary School and Youth to excellence is reflected in the very Learning Center of the Bina Hill In- We could not have published this guide book on Rock View and the history high quality of its hospitality ser- stitute at the other. of its early years without the encouragement and support of Advertising vices and its well-maintained prem- Neatly dressed in their uniforms and Marketing Services of Guyana and St. Lucia for the initial layout, For- ises. It is run by a family that itself with golden ribbons, wearing slip- bras publishing of Boa Vista, Brazil for having added to the concept, and is a blend of Amerindian, Brazilian, pers, socks and shoes or going bare- finally, our special friend and past guest here at Rock View, Ali Alsaloom of British and Basque. It stands as a foot and picking up mangoes along Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, for his generosity and kindness in refining proud example of Guyana’s brand the way, they salute you as they what you now have before you as being a testimonial to the achievements of tourism at its best, with its blend pass with polite good mornings, of Rock View. of heritage, local knowledge, social friendly smiles, giggles and chatter. I would like to express a special thanks to such pioneering spirits in estab- connections and personalities. lishing eco-tourism in the Rupununi by mentioning such icons as Diane Mc- Turk of Karanambu and Sydney and Theo Allicock of , who in their dif- ferent ways have supported us at Rock View and our many partners in tourism for Guyana now being recognized as a unique eco-tourism destination. Finally, I would like to thank my own family for having supported me with their great patience, sacrifice and understanding to the making of a dream really come true!

Rock View founder Colin Edwards

Rock View supporter Vanda Radzik. Patch, the favourite resident dog. This is one of the subtle but import- area. There is a pleasing coherence local experts such as Narus Edwards ant trademarks of the Rock View and connectedness everywhere. It and Ivor Daniels from neighbouring brand of tourism: its intrinsic link is as if Rock View has emerged from villages, many of them trained by with community life and its partner- the very earthworks of Annai, with Colin in the art of finishing and pre- ship with growing the tourism busi- its terracotta tones of clays and cision. ness in the wider Rupununi in a way rocks and the blended browns and The “tree-house” lounge and pa- that is respectful of the local people, greys of the handmade woodwork tio-style dining area are a relatively their aspirations and relationships. and roofing shingles that complete new addition to Rock View and are Nearly everyone you see at Rock the rustic splendour of Rock View. a microcosm of its unique design View has an amazing talent and Locally made clay bricks, all pro- and construction. The location is life story, over and above their role duced in the neighbouring village between the two ancient and tow- as part of the Rock View staff fam- of Kwatamang, are used for walls, ering mango trees, that stand as ily. There is the story of the Bra- verandas and even as terrazzo-style stately sentinels in the gardens, and sche family, the original owners of floor tiles. A unique feature is the under which al fresco meals were Rock Point Ranch, which has now agate-embedded walls of many of enjoyed on the magnificent hard- “Tree House under the Mango Trees,” by British become Rock View. There is Uncle artist Shirley Felts. the buildings, which are embedded wood trestle tables as a much-loved Dennis, who pioneered the Panora- with beautiful one-of-a-kind agates RockView speciality – until the man- ma Nature Trail hike on the Moun- ditional basketry and can process and jaspers and best showcased on go-laden trees began vigorously tain of the Sacred Table. There is the straw from the ite palm herself, the guest room verandas. The only shedding their fruit on the guests Castro the Capatache, who looks making traditional as well as con- imported materials are the roof tiles dining below, and it was considered every bit the part, with his hat and temporary items from these natural from Boa Vista in neighbouring Bra- prudent to sling a roof between lasso as he sits astride his horse fibres, including the attractive straw zil, which were produced by a fami- the two mango trees! The roof is and rides through Rock View on mats used on the dining tables. Her ly-run business there. itself a work of art – superbly made his daily cattle round-up. But then husband Roeland, originally from The combination of natural mate- with handmade shingles that have there is the fact that Castro, from Arawak stock from far-away St. rials and works by local artisans re- weathered beautifully – as only Rupertee Village next door to Rock Cuthbert’s Village, is a very talented flects the partnership that has creat- shingles can. Hanging from it are View, is also one of the most talent- sculptor and uses the local woods. ed the Rock View Eco Lodge and its the swirls of “monkey ladders” from ed practitioners of Makushi culture His work and that of other local environs. The Rock View buildings the rainforest and twigs on which and knowledge-holders of the her- sculptors is on display and for sale are all designed by the founder, perch an array of carefully carved itage; he and his troupe are among at the Rock View Craft Shop in the Colin Edwards, and constructed by and hand-painted birds, replicas of the best performers of traditional charming benab snuggled between dances and songs. Added to which, the two guest houses. Castro is also an excellent leather- There is a distinct aesthetic within craftsman, making all his own leath- the Rock View compound that con- er tack and tools of the trade. sists of a very clever and artful use New additions to Rock View staff of natural, local materials and a rock are Maria from Village in motif that connects the infrastruc- the distant South Pakaraimas, who ture very naturally to the actual ge- is extraordinarily talented in tra- ology and landscape of the Annai

Founder Colin Edwards with his office team. A giant anteater, an example of the area’s wildlife. The lodge and gardens of Rock View. the local savannah and forest spe- er) and the Harpy Eagle by Bartram, ful array of cashew trees, including for. This garden is built from the cies that were produced by local as well as works by Winslow Craig. a sublime reef of mangroves that bare savannah earth over the years, sculptors. The tree-house lounge These share space with intricate surround the area and a small sep- with a variety of the beloved flow- is also decorated with calabash hand embroidery, akin to miniature arate water-lily pool nestled with- ering shrubs, fruit and shade trees bowls of dried forest fruits, seeds tapestries, made by the Makushi in the arms of the main swimming that have become signatures of the and pods, and with part of the Rock women of the villages through a pool. The structure and surround- tropical countries of our region: the View Art Collection, one of the best project transferred from the Red ing landscape make the Rock Pool flamboyant, samaan, mango, ma- private art collections in Guyana. Thread Guyana group, which was uniquely attractive and give the lacca, local almond and bougain- Nowhere else in the North Ru- developed and introduced by Van- place a sort of natural, spa-like fea- villea, to name but a few of these pununi can you find such a treasure da Radzik and inspired by the work ture. The Rock Pool is outfitted with transplants. Mixed with these are trove of the arts, boasting some of of Valerie Cox of South Rupununi, all the modern pool accoutrements, local bromeliads, palms and forest the best pieces by renowned Guy- whose own work is proudly dis- such as a pump and chlorine, to en- orchids. Gardening enthusiasts who anese, Brazilian and even a few in- played in Rock View. sure health and safety, but these visit Rock View will be in a plant par- ternationally established artists that The landmark rock that gives Rock are suitably well blended into the adise. share space with some of the best View its name and provenance has poolscape. And then, for the literary and his- work of local artists and artisans. The been beautifully enhanced to bring Nowhere else in the area is there a tory buff, there is the library. The collection includes a 1970s Philip out its loveliness and its accessibili- garden so beautifully and thought- collection of books stems from Col- Moore original watercolour, several ty as a perfect place for meditation, fully landscaped and so well cared in’s own omnivorous reading ap- paintings by George Simon, Philbert for experiencing sunrise and moon- Gajadhar and Marjorie Broodhagen, rise over the savannahs and for star- as well as watercolours by Morag gazing at night. The Mandela-like Williams and Anil Roberts. It also clay-brick design subtly engrained includes works by the eminent Brit- into the natural rock platform at the ish-based watercolourist, Shirley lookout point is an added touch of Felts, who painted the Iwokrama thoughtfulness and delight. Rainforest. Then there are the three The Rock Pool is just that – a natu- marvelous wooden sculptures of ral pool carved from the bedrock of Mahatma Gandhi, the Pork-knocker the Rock View premises with local (a traditional, small-scale gold min- almond shade trees and a wonder-

Guests having a meal at the Mango Tree Dining Room. Rock Point in 1960.

The history of Rock View: The early years

The old ranch of Rock Point was as a policeman stationed at the po- A bird’s eye view of Rock View Lodge. Photo by Pete Oxford. purchased by Colin Edwards in 1992 lice station and later settled down from the Fredericks family, who had with Dina, daughter of Nathan of petite to which was recently added cal community development. The been rearing cattle here since 1969. the Pombaru Ranch by Mountain his parents’ library, shipped over North Rupununi District Develop- The old ranch house dated back to Point. from the South of France when they ment Board (NRDDB), the umbrella the early 1950s when a couple of It is interesting therefore to note came to live out their final years at organisation of the local leaders of coastlanders started the construc- that the present-day partnership Rock View. It is an eclectic collec- the 16 communities of the North Ru- tion of this unusual building with known as “The Ranches of the Ru- tion – old editions of Bates, Wal- pununi, was founded and unofficial- the intention of setting up a guest pununi” involving the ranches of lace, Waterton, Schomburgk, who ly declared one memorable moonlit house to offer accommodation to Dadanawa, managed by Duane and travelled and explored Guyana and night at a gathering of leaders un- the ranchers who were involved in Sandy deFreitas, Karanambu, man- the Rupununi in the 18th and 19th der the Rock View mango trees. the Rupununi Cattle Trail drives. aged and owned by Dianne McTurk centuries, along with the finest Vic- And in February 2000, hosted This epic journey entailed cattle and her family, and Rock View, stem torian and modern fiction and poet- Prince Charles, who met with the being driven by vacqueiros in herds from a long-standing historical re- ry. Naturally, there is an impressive indigenous leaders of the North Ru- of hundreds from the world’s largest lationship. Though Dadanawa is no section of books by scientists on the pununi and Iwokrama. They intro- cattle ranch at Dadanawa in south longer what it used to be back in its flora and fauna and ecology of the duced him to the untouched rain- Rupununi to the coast of Guyana, heyday when cattle were plentiful Rupununi. forest environment, after which he some 400 miles distant, to the vil- and there was always a ready mar- Rock View has also, over the past became the patron of the Iwokrama lage of Surama, where the footmen ket for beef along the coast, through two decades, been the venue of Rainforest Program for Research would then continue the long jour- many historic events that stand and Development. ney through a narrow corridor in the as milestones in the history of lo- rainforest and across the great riv- ers in pontoons until the surviving cattle reached the coast to recover and fatten up again before going on to the consumer. These men from the coast were then succeeded by Leon Brasche Vivian Brasche, who came to Annai

Heliconia flowers in Rock View’s garden. the stewardship of Duane and San- dy, with the encouragement of Di- anne as a director of Dadanawa, a new role through nature-based and community tourism has been found for this historical ranch that was es- tablished by the legendary Scot, Mr. H.C.P. Melville and his Wapishana Family. Richard Brasche This current partnership, which is so vital to the very success of our used to be. For those who may have work, is in fact following along the been lucky enough to have met famous old cattle trail from Dadana- with “Uncle Fred” or his late brother wa in the south across the savan- “Uncle Theo,” they will have been in nahs to Annai and Rock View and a position to have heard from them on to the Iwokrama International many a tale from their lives: build- Rainforest Programme for research ing the pontoons for the cattle trail; and development at . crossing the cattle over the rapids It was at the village of Surama of the Essequibo River; and later on where the cattle were once hand- earning their living as balata bleed- ed over to begin their long journey ers, trappers and pork knockers. In Vivian Brasche of the Rock Point Ranch circa 1960. through the rainforest trail, and fact, Uncle Fred, popularly known as the Amerindian village now suc- the “Indigenous Man,’’ is the person cessfully operates its own commu- who, as the first station manager at nity-based tourism business. The the Iwokrama Centre, established Allicock family, which played a vital the base camp at the Iwokrama Riv- role in the leadership of the Surama er Lodge as it is today. Now better community, came to Kurupukari known for his commitment to envi- through the efforts of the Rupununi ronmental and ecological issues, his Development Company with the vision and work is being continued cattle trail. It is here on the banks of by his son Sydney, who is currently the Essequibo River at Kurupukari a trustee of Iwokrama and is rec- that the headquarters of the district ognized widely as one of Guyana’s commissioner of the Rupununi once leading Amerindians.

Cogo Scipio Uncle Dennis Franscipio

Iwokrama River Lodge cabins. Castro and the Rock View herd. Photo gallery - First moments Photo gallery - The family of Vivien Brasche

The Annai Village District Council in 1992.

Dina Brasche having a meal with her children. Jackie and Velda Allicock

Vivien Brasche presenting a trophy at the Annai Rodeo. Dina Brasche by a coconut tree in the yard.

President Cheddie Jagan Dr. Swaminathan and Audrey

The Brasche sons return from a fishing trip Dina Brasche in the Ranch House living room. with their catch.

H.R.H. Prince Charles with Colin and Minister Vibert de Souza. Photo gallery - The history of Annai Photo gallery - The history of Annai

Jorge, baby Vitor, Colin and Velda

Velda Allicock

Baby Zorba Robert Schomburgk’s Annai Carib Village.

Lara and Ayesha the Bridesmaids

Baby Stewart and Vitor

The Three Hills of Rupertee.

Zorba, Lara, Ayesha, Jorge, Stewart, Vitor and Janio Vitor, Colin, Zorba and Velda Those who made the dream become a reality

Tony, Colin, Mike and Sydney Nica and Stewart Edwards.

“Missing”

Poem by Sydney Allicock, vacqueiro, Touchau and now the visionary to his people

The evening was late and lonely, But the sun was in all its glory Colin Edwards Dennis Franscipio I sat spellbound on the hills of Rupertee, Admiring the natural Rupununi beauty Around me the rolling green and yellow savannah Land, To the East of me the majestic Makarapan Away into the distant South the mighty blue Kanuku And beautified by the sunset the well known Pakaraimas too As I sat soliloquizing It dawned on me that something was missing

As I gazed away into the Rupununi evening I focused my mind on some good reasoning Visible for miles was the dusty old trail and crisscrossing of tracks The few ranch houses and empty corrals seem now to be only shacks Jorge Edwards Mike Correia Tony Amres No vacqueiroes on the great plain doing their normal chores, Of riding, lassoing or singing out their regular yehoes! All that was moving were donkeys fighting, So sickening! Something was missing, Physically missing.

While staring over this vast vacqueiro range, The idea of missing cattle seemed so strange Can you imagine that cattle were missing! The famous Rupununi cattle herds slowly diminishing I remembered the good old days from Dadanawa to Takama Chasing thousands of cattle over this famous savannah Now there are only occasional carcasses bleached by the weather Here and there on the great plain might be a lonely tired rider The Parishara dance in Annai. Oh Rupununians! Gone are the cattle days, No more bellowing, horse riding, lassoing nor happy old ways. The Makushi culture of our Amerindian people The twilight, missing cattle and hideous braying saddened the evening. The distant hooting of owls and moaning wind against hills left me grieving It is generally accepted that the Am- civilizations were most affected by I wondered, could it be politics and development erindians of the Americas originated the discovery of the New World by Or was it rustling and poor management? from Mongolia having crossed the the Spaniards and the Portuguese. The cattle were gone, perhaps over the border, Bering Strait at some remote time However, the forest and savannah And here is where we can go, and no further. in the past. It is possible that this people were able to retain their cul- Over hills, through valleys or on the plains, main migration may have been ac- ture until recently in a way that has Through night, sunshine or in the rains, companied by some other separate enabled anthropologists to docu- Here I’ll roam and here I’ll remain, migration across from the Pacific ment the ability of these people to Determined to rear cattle once again! Ocean, but this would have been a coexist with their environment and less important contributing factor develop and cultivate useful plants to the Amerindians in their different to such a degree that many have be- cultures throughout the Americas. come important agricultural crops From the Eskimos in the extreme as staples in all four corners of the North to the Amerindians of Pata- world. gonia, the early settlers adapted well to the very diverse habitats where they finally settled. Notably the most organized cultures were the Aztecs and Mayas of Mexico and Central America and the Incas of the Andes mountains. These

Sydney and Colin in 1992 planning for the future of Rock View play, be it through the mission of The Makushi were famous in the the International Iwokrama Rain- past for the potency of the curare forest Programme close by, as well poison, which they learnt to make as through the creation of greater from a variety of different plants understanding and awareness by and ingredients that together gave visitors coming to Rock View and the special quality to paralyze the their interactions with our people. central nervous system and there- Annai is situated in the North Ru- fore kill prey without affecting the pununi Savannahs, the heartland of meat for human consumption. As the Mukushi people and one of the with all Amerindian people, the two savannah nations of the nine Makushi used to travel and barter major Amerindian people of Guy- their product in exchange for oth- A Makushi girl with a puppy. ana. The others are the coastland er essential items such as pottery, Waraus and Caribs, the Patamonas basket work and other items which dency on the environment and the A young Makushi girl. and Akawaios across the Pakarai- each Amerindian nation specialized surrounding habitat requires secure ma Mountains, and the Wai Wais in. They became excellent farmers, land rights to the traditional lands This is one of the great lessons in the Amazon forest south of Guy- their staple being based on cassava that they are accustomed to. It is that we can learn from here in the ana. The Mukushi are to the north and its many products and by-prod- this basic issue that at the moment North Rupununi Savannahs. In an of the Kanuku mountain range and ucts. The farming is of a shifting cul- is of most concern to the people at a age of diminishing natural resourc- the Wapishana to the south. As with tivation type which is ideally suited time when there is an ever-increas- es, the forest and savannah people all Amerindians, the Makushi and to the relatively poor soils. A farm ing demand by others for more land of Guyana are almost totally self-suf- the Wapishana are dependent on may last initially for three years, and natural resources. The people ficient with their resourcefulness to the forest for their farmlands and as is left for a period of five years for of the North Rupununi Savannahs coexist with the varying demands such have two homes, the main one the secondary growth to be felled are very pleased to show how they on life around them. The challenge being on the savannah with a fur- again, and farmed for a further two are dependent on the land and how is now making itself felt with an ev- ther farm home in the forest. years. The land would then be al- it is possible to manage sustainably er-increasing need to adapt to new lowed to rest and return to primary these resources for the benefit of all. lifestyles that are emerging due to forest after 40 years. Together with the Iwokrama Inter- an ever-shrinking world as a result Subsistence farming is supple- national Rainforest Programme, it of cultural diversity and informa- mented by hunting and fishing, is hoped that ecotourism through tion technology and the ease with which abound. This fragile depen- educational awareness will address which people move around in a way never before possible. Ever since the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, there has been an enor- mous concern by those in the so- called civilized world to learn and show greater respect for life forms around them. We all have a part to

Pamela Nash Dugout canoes by the landing on the Rupununi River. The sketch scratched on the ground for the The landscape as it was in 1992. future lodge.

Developing the gardens, farming and ranching

The year 1969 was marked by the In so doing, it has enabled us to re- Veronica roasting cashew nuts. Rupununi Uprising, which resulted store the old ranch into the Rock in Vivian Brasche deciding to sell View Lodge to bring hospitality into and sensitize decision-makers in the indian areas is something of a novel- the Rock Point Ranch against his a growing leisure industry that now four corners of the globe in such a ty to the culture. However, both Rock will and his moving across to Brazil. embraces both tourism and ranch- way that the lives of generations to View and Iwokrama have established On our acquiring the property in ing into the new focus on agro-tour- come will be guaranteed. nature tourism activities both inside 1992, there was very little left of the ism. This has given us the great ad- The Amerindian people of Guyana and outside the traditional lands of thriving ranch of before. In its hey- vantage of creating a novel product organise themselves in a way that the Makushi in a way that has prov- day, there were 800 head of cattle that is appropriate to the culture should be the envy of many. The en to be welcomed by the people. and a store that serviced the com- and environment of an indigenous council is elected every two years, At first, the main obstacle was that munity when the De Havilland DC 3 community in a wetland habitat. with a Captain or Touchau (the term it was difficult for the people here to used to fetch carcasses of beef and Visiting an Amerindian farmstead used in the south of Guyana), and understand why tourists should trav- supply Georgetown. This has meant that caters for all the needs of an ex- this council decides on all issues el so far and at such expense to share that we have had a lot of work to do tended family is an experience in it- within the community. The authori- in their lives and experiences which in restoring the fences, taking water self for those accustomed to mono- ty of the council is total and is only they themselves have always taken to the paddocks, planting back pas- culture and a city existence where subject to national law on issues such for granted. It has also taken awhile ture in the paddocks and generally all can be purchased on the shelves as security and law and order. It is for the people to organize themselves building up the fertility of the soil. of a supermarket. expected that the Amerindian Act into groups to handle tourists, create will address such issues as subsur- their own infrastructure in the way face mineral rights. Visitors to Rock of boats, guesthouses and trails, be View entering Amerindian lands are trained as guides and manage their expected to respect the rules and own affairs. The village council of regulations of these councils, and Surama has achieved the latter and it is advisable for visitors always to will be seen as a great example of be accompanied by an authorized community-based tourism and what member of the community or mem- is possible as an income-generating ber of the Rock View staff. activity, which is compatible with the Ecotourism as an activity in Amer- lifestyle and culture of the people.

2002: After 10 years of landscaping. Young cashew fruit. Tropical white grapes. The Red Buck banana. The organic vegetable garden at Rock View.

The Rock View Ranch endeavours daily activities besides going horse Organic farming and produce to produce as much homegrown riding and taking or bringing the produce for consumption by visi- cattle back from the open pasture Rock View has been involved in re- cassava, granola cereals reinforced tors. This ensures fresh and healthy that the grasslands of the savan- storing the old ranch of the 1960s with our own cashews, peanuts and food at all times and simplifies the nah provide. We are now planning into a thriving farm with an orchard dried fruits, and jams and jellies sourcing of inputs into the business on having our own dairy for the and vegetable garden that supplies from the 50-odd different fruit trees as well as promoting what can be production of fresh cow’s milk, the needs of the guests through in the orchard. done with good husbandry tech- cream, yogurt or “coalhada,” as we good wholesome food that rep- Fresh beef is prepared into choice niques under what may seem an call it, and farm cheeses. The cattle resents the culinary touches of Bra- cuts from which barbecue, stir fry inhospitable climate with poor soil we have are of Holstein extraction, zil, the Rupununi, Guyana and the and steaks are served to guests, as type and rain distribution. crossed with the hardy longhorns of Caribbean. well as the traditional cowboy or All 20 acres of the leased land the Rupununi. Not only do we produce our own vaqueiro food such as passoca and receive water distributed from the Another project that we shall be fresh produce for the kitchen, but tasso. Local fisherman catch fresh well, thus allowing the livestock to embarking upon very soon will be a we also preserve the fruits and of- lukanani and tiger fish, later to have drink water from self-replenishing fish farm that will allow us to pursue fer fresh fruit juices at all meals. Our our own homegrown tambaqui water troughs and to water the five integrated farming methods by us- breakfast includes such delicacies added to fish dishes prepared as acres of orchard and gardens from ing the water from the ponds onto as pepperpot, tapioca beiju or pan- tuma pot or with coconut milk and stand pipes at strategic points. As our existing drip irrigation vege- cakes made from the starch of the coentro herbs from the garden. a result, a variety of fresh fruits are table garden that provides fresh available at most times of the year produce to our kitchen. We shall be as well as flowering and foliage rearing the Amazonian Tambaqui, plants for the home. Being a work- which is appropriate to the environ- ing ranch, our vaqueiros can explain ment and will allow guests to fish to visitors and share with them their for their meals.

Cucumber, pepper, shallotte, okra, bora bean, lettuce and pakchoi.

Wardell with Chestnut. Castro with a guest. Cow manure and the ashes from the bonfire to enrich the soil. The bird life of the North Rupununi

Jabiru stork Preparing for the Brazilian Bar-B-Q. Ralph Graham “The river boat trip was an out- thrill of being able to add to these standing experience. Super birding lists for future visitors and bird lovers. in the forest. We’ll be back!” – Brian More recently, the Moura road and Dee Keating (Civilised Adven- has shown great promise due to its tures of Calgary Zoo) interesting range of habitats. Our Rock View has become a favourite bird lists will give you the opportu- location for bird watchers from North nity to differentiate the birds of An- America and Europe. Exciting bird nai (savannah, mountains and river), lists have been prepared for the vil- Surama (savannah, mountains, river lages of Annai and Surama as well as and rainforest) and the Iwokrama for the Canopy Walkway, the Iwokra- rainforest, also known as the Inter- ma River Lodge and the Iwokrama national Iwokrama Rainforest Cen- Rainforest Reserve. Visitors can see tre for Research and Development, for themselves how the distribu- with mountains, rivers and mainly tion of birds varies from savannah rainforest. These lists are available to mountain, river and rainforest. but never complete, with a new spe- Enthusiasts will be able to have the cies being added from time to time.

Catering Trainer Ralph Graham who says The Rock View Cooler. People eat first with their Eyes.

Vermilion flycatcher Tropical screech owl Nacunda nighthawk The flowering trees and plants at Rock View

The gardens of Rock View have any real clay content. Through also been developed over the years by creating a healthy earthworm pop- building up the fertility of the soil, ulation, we have been able to intro- Iguana Giant anteater River turtles composting and using cow manure duce many fruit trees and flowering from the corral where the cattle stay plants, creating a habitat all of its overnight. This has also helped to own that encourages and attracts The Wildlife of the North Rupununi build up the humus that was lack- many bird species to become resi- ing in the natural sandy loam soil of dents of the lodge. No. English Name Biological Name Description the savannahs, which are devoid of 1. Giant anteater Myrmecophaga tridactyla savannah and forest 2. Southern anteater Tamandua tetradactyla forest areas, diurnal 3. Pygmy anteater Cyclopes didactylus forest areas, nocturnal 4. Pale-throat three-toed Bradypus tridactylus forest areas, diurnal sloth 5. Southern two-toed Choloepus didactylus forest areas, nocturnal sloth 6. Nine-banded armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus forest, mainly nocturnal 7. Long-nosed armadillo Dasypus kappleri lowland forest, nocturnal 8. Golden-handed tamarin Saguinus midas arboreal, diurnal The red flamboyant Cannon ball tree Cabbage palm 9. Guianan saki monkey Pithecia pithecia arboreal, diurnal 10. Brown bearded saki Chiropotes satanus arboreal, diurnal 11. Red howler monkey Alouatta seniculus arboreal, diurnal 12. Black spider monkey Ateles paniscus arboreal, diurnal 13. Squirrel monkey Saimiri sciureus arboreal, river bank 14. Brown capuchin Cebus paella arboreal, diurnal 15. Wedge-cap capuchin Cebus olivaceus arboreal, diurnal 16. South American coati Nasua nasua arboreal, diurnal 17. Kinkajou Potos flavus arboreal, nocturnal 18. Tayra Eira barbara arboreal, diurnal 19. Southern river otter Lutra logicaudis semi-aquatic 20. Giant otter Pteronura brasiliensis semi-aquatic 21. Ocelot Felis pardalis terrestrial Hanging heliconia Flowering ginger Flowering snake cactus 22. Margay Felis weidii arboreal, nocturnal 23. Jaguarundi Felis yagouaroundi terrestrial 24. Puma Felis concolor terrestrial 25. Jaguar PPanthera onca terrestrial 26. Collared peccary Tayassu tajacu rainforest, diurnal 27. White-lipped peccary Tayassu pecari terrestrial, diurnal

Blue flowered vine Red flowering vine Savannah flower

Red-footed tortoises Rattlesnake Young iguana 28. White-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus savannah 29. Guianan squirrel Sciurus aestuans arboreal, diurnal Activities and enjoying your stay at Rock View 30. Brazillian porcupine Coedou prehensilis arboreal, diurnal 31. Black-tail dwarf Coendou melanurus lowland rainforest Visitors on arrival are made welcome sparse grassland of the savannahs porcupine to their rooms and introduced to the to the improvement of the fertility, 32. Red acouchy Myoprocta acouchy terrestrial, diurnal lodge and its many amenities. This care and introduction of plants and Red-rumped agouti Dasyprocta agouti terrestrial, diurnal 33. is then followed by guests being trees that now provide shade, flow- 34. White-faced tree rat Echimys chrysurs arboreal, nocturnal 35. Red-nosed tree rat Echimys armatus arboreal, nocturnal given an orientation tour around ers and fruits for the enjoyment of 36. Spiny tree rat Mesomys hispidus arboreal, nocturnal the grounds of the property, which both wildlife and visitors alike. The 37. Matamata turtle Chelus fimbriatus oxbow lakes covers some five acres of orchards bird list for the garden now consists 38. Side-necked turtle Podocnemis vogli small rivers, ponds and beautifully landscaped gardens, of more than 300 species that have 39. Twist-necked turtle Platemys platycephala pools, streams including organically grown vege- now made their new home at Rock 40. Scorpion mud turtle Kinosternon scorpioides rivers, ponds tables. The gardens have evolved View, giving much pleasure to bird over the past 20 years, from the lovers.

The buff necked ibis. The lineated woodpecker.

Jaguar and Tommy the Tapir by Shirley Felts North to the mountains.

Hiking activities are offered that most potent form of curare used by Creativity and the arts involve guided walks both on the hunters to smear onto the tips of savannah and the foothills of the their arrowheads and blow-darts. The peace and tranquility of the nearby Pakaraima Mountains. The Rupununi savannahs are best seen Panorama Nature Trail was devel- at Rock View, which could become oped by Rock View with the great the most conducive environment support of Capatache Uncle Dennis for creativity and the pursuit of Franscipio, firstly as a conservation the arts in all its many forms. The project in keeping with the ideals gardens and the bird life create an of the Iwokrama Rainforest Pro- ideal setting to listen to good mu- gramme for Research and Devel- sic, read your favourite books, write opment, but then as a favourite for and paint away to your heart’s de- visitors to enjoy and have interpreted light the scenes of nature, the land- to them the names of the trees and Uncle Dennis scape and the simple but honest diverse wildlife that can be seen. basics of life itself. The forested mountainside trail has all the useful aids for visitors of all ages to use and to enjoy great views over the savannahs towards the mighty Kanuku mountain range some 80 kilometres away to the south. It was later learnt from a visit- Visitors on the Panorama Nature Trail. ing archaeologist, together with the local shaman, that the mountainside itself held a very spiritual significance to the Makushi people, having in the past been a place for the healing of South towards the Savannas. Rivers, landscape, the ranch house library and craftwork. the sick and the preparation of the Tribute to Shirley Felts and her fine watercolours

Shirley Felts and her paintings of the rainforest.

Sculptures by Agenor of Bahia - Brazil in wood and soapstone.

The Pakaraimas from the Mountain of the Sacred Table.

Sculptures in mahogany by Lumumba and Bartrum of Guyana. Painting of the Burro-Burro river in Surama. Recommendations for your visit Where to find Rock View

Before travelling to Guyana Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana. • Consult your family doctor on recommended medication and vaccines before leaving for a tropical environment. • Pack light cotton clothing that can dry easily as well as insect repellent and sunblock. • Bring with you only essentials for your holiday due to weight restrictions on the domestic airlines.

While staying at Rock View with young children • Always request that one of our trained guides accompany you to an Amerindian community • Show respect to the people who you will meet and to their culture. • It is recommended that you always ask permission before taking photographs.

When walking along a trail • Always advise management when you wish to go for a walk as we have our trained guides to accompany you. • Be careful by looking on the ground where you are walking.

When walking through the rainforest • Always be accompanied by a trained guide who knows the trail well. • Always be careful where you walk and where you place your hands.

What to do with your valuables during your stay • As Rock View is part of the community, its members are encouraged to be involved in all our activities and to pass through the grounds of the lodge. We therefore recommend that you address any concerns about valuables with management upon arrival.

How to show appreciation for your stay • Let us know how we could have made your stay even better by completing the questionnaire provided. • Write your comments in the visitors’ book for others to see. • If you wish to leave any monetary contribution for our having made your stay enjoyable, then management will be happy to accept this and distribute your kind offer equitably amongst all the staff who made this possible. Sketch Map from Boa Vista, Brazil to Iwokrama. Making contact with Rock View and its partners

Rock View Lodge Dadanawa Ranch: Website: [email protected] www.rockviewlodge.com Iwokrama River Lodge: Reservations: [email protected] [email protected] Karanambu Lodge: Rock View founder Colin Edwards: [email protected] [email protected] Kumu Falls Resort: +592 693 7274 (WhatsApp) Tour operators Manari Ranch: Adventure Guianas: [email protected] [email protected] Pakaraima Mountain Inn: Bird Quest: [email protected] [email protected] Piraiba Lodge: Birding Tours: [email protected] [email protected] Rewa Eco-Lodge: Dagron Tours: [email protected] [email protected] Santa Fe Ranch: Eco-Travel: [email protected] [email protected] Surama Eco-Lodge: Evergreen Adventures: [email protected] Sketch Map of the Annai District. [email protected] Waikin Ranch Guyana Truly Wild: [email protected] [email protected] Hurukabra Tours: Professional tour guides [email protected] Kenneth Butler: Journey Guyana: [email protected] [email protected] Leroy Ignacio: Roraima Tours: [email protected] [email protected] Rovin Alvin: Rupununi Adventures: [email protected] [email protected] Wally Prince: Wilderness Explorers: [email protected] [email protected] Lethem Hotels Our hospitality partners Hotel Amazonas: Arrow Point Nature Resort: [email protected] [email protected] Kanuku Hotel: Atta Rainforest Lodge: [email protected] [email protected] Ori Hotel: Baganara Island Resort: [email protected] [email protected] Rupununi Eco-Hotel: Caiman House: [email protected] [email protected] Takutu Hotel: Sketches both drawn by Shonna McKinnon. [email protected] The Rock View Lodge North Rupununi Wetlands, Annai – Guyana, South America

The sun rises, the sun sets, the sun gives life To the beautiful Rupununi savannahs and its people