Arrowpoint showcases scenic, tranquil sections of Guyana’s rainforest
SHOWCASING the scenic and tranquil sections of Guyana’s rainforest, Arrowpoint Nature Resort is aptly described as “such a relaxing place.”
One of the finer examples of Guyana’s eco-tourism product, Arrowpoint coexists with its interior setting without ruffling the natural environment. Biking, bird-watching and quiet, reflective strolls along its winding trails are just part of the “eco-adventure” product that it offers.
Flowing past the resort, the serene waters of the Kamuni Creek kiss a small, inviting expanse of white sandy beach.
The guest is in for an experience of a lifetime from relaxing in a hammock to kayaking along the black waters of the Kamuni Creek or mountain biking through the rainforest. The fun never stops as guests can play some beach volleyball or go on a Wabani jungle expedition.
The Guyana Chronicle was afforded the opportunity to visit one of Guyana’s most talked about nature resorts and the experience overshadowed any ‘word of mouth’ description that was offered.
EARLY START
The day started very early for some, at 06:30 hrs, when tourists boarded the bus to Arrowpoint in Georgetown. Sixteen persons with eager expectations enjoyed the ride to the marina at Timehri where the team boarded the boats for the second leg of the journey to Arrowpoint.
The boat ride started across the Demerara River into the mysterious meandering Kamuni Creek. This left all in awe, with its many twists and turns. Deep within Guyana’s rainforest the lovely chirping of birds and ‘monkey noises’ and the sudden falling of leaves from trees added to the plendour.
Captain Gerald Gouveia, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Roraima Airways was there to brief visitors on the history of some of the areas along the Kamuni Creek. He paid specific attention to what he calls ‘China Town’.
During his explanation, he related that some wealthy Chinese immigrants fled their country due to war and settled in Guyana. He noted too that many Chinese today can find their ancestors’ tombs still intact.
After about 45 minutes by boat, the team arrived at the Amerindian Village of Santa Mission for a brief tour and a visit to the craft shop. After some shopping and exciting sightseeing, it was off to Arrowpoint which is some 10 minutes away.
At Arrowpoint, guests were met by the staff and guided to the upper deck for light refreshments. The tour guide then spoke on some of the safety measures to be observed and highlighted the Wabani jungle expedition and then the kayaking along the black waters of the Kamuni Creek.
Captain Gouveia noted that the resort was established over 20 years ago and over the years both locals and overseas-based tourists would visit. On this visit, he noted that the team was made up mostly of Canadians as well as Guyanese residing in Canada.
Speaking with the Phillippe family, they related that they had heard many good stories about Arrowpoint but the experience surpassed their expectations. One of the most exciting, Mr Phillippe stated, was the dip into the black water. This, he said, was beyond his wildest dreams.
Another family that was holidaying in Guyana explained to this newspaper that they are originally from Canal Polder and have been living in Canada for a number of years. “This place is so relaxing,” the most senior member of the family noted as they applauded the management for their excellent service.
BEYOND EXPECTATIONS
Most of the guests readily acknowledged that they would recommend the resort to others. One young lady explained that she visited the online site and found out some of the details about the resort but was mesmerised by the description of the black water in Guyana and told herself she had to visit this place to see for herself. “It is beyond my expectations,” she said enthusiastically.
