Overview:

Join us on an exhilarating journey along the captivating Mahaica River, where nature’s wonders await. Experience the Hoatzin Tour, an extraordinary expedition that takes you from Georgetown to the awe-inspiring Mahaica River, renowned as one of the best places to witness the emblematic national bird of Guyana, the hoatzin (Opisthocomus Hoatzin).

As the sun rises, our adventure begins with the gathering of participants from Georgetown, setting the stage for an immersive journey of exploration and discovery. The Mahaica River, with its winding course through diverse ecosystems, promises a truly unique interaction with the natural world. The hoatzin, also known as the Hoatzin, Stinkbird, or “Canje Pheasant,” will be our remarkable guide throughout this expedition. Standing at approximately 65 cm (25 in) tall, this pheasant-like bird boasts a distinctive appearance with its elongated neck, small head, and captivating rufous crest.
Its striking blue and maroon plumage, along with its juvenile wing digits complete with talons, adds to its allure and sparks curiosity.

As we navigate the twists and turns of the Mahaica River, we will be surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the natural landscape. The riverbanks, carefully preserved amidst sugarcane cultivation and agricultural activities, provide a sanctuary for a diverse array of bird species. Egrets, herons, ibises, and a variety of marsh tyrants adorn this habitat, coexisting harmoniously with the captivating hoatzin. The highlight of the

Hoatzin Tour is the revelation of the hoatzin’s dietary habits and unique gastrointestinal system. As a herbivore, the hoatzin feeds on foliage and fruit, with its enlarged crop functioning similarly to a rumen.To protect itself from potential threats, the hoatzin employs an innovative defense mechanism – a distinctive odor.