Stay & Play
Wichabai and Saddle Mountain Ranches
Authentic Adventures in Guyana’s Savannah
by Olivia Liveng
Deep in Guyana’s vast South Rupununi savannahs lies a landscape of sweeping grasslands dotted by palm-fringed islands, where ancient traditions and a pioneering conservation ethos intertwine seamlessly. Here, two rural yet entirely unique establishments—Wichabai Ranch and Saddle Mountain Ranch—offer a gateway into a world of ecological adventure, cultural enrichment, and authentic ranch life. Far removed from mainstream tourism, these family-run ranches are redefining sustainable travel through immersive experiences that celebrate the region’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Wichabai Ranch Where Conservation Meets Authenticity
Situated where the Amazon rainforest softly merges into an expansive savannah, Wichabai Ranch is a shining example of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. It isn’t simply a ranch but a focal point for conservation, scientific research, and cultural exchange. Spanning thousands of acres, the ranch is surrounded by natural lagoons, streams, and islands of dense bush—each alive with birdsong and wildlife.
Upon arrival, guests are immediately enveloped in the tranquil rhythm of life, slowing to match the natural cadence of the land. The rustic yet comfortable cabins, built with locally sourced materials, offer stunning vistas across the savannah and nearby forests. Each cabin features an inviting veranda—perfect for observing wildlife, stargazing, or simply soaking in the serene landscape, fostering a sense of peace and relaxation.
Days at Wichabai Ranch are filled with an array of activities designed to deepen one’s appreciation for the natural world. Guided horseback rides take guests through the open savannah, allowing intimate encounters with grazing cattle, giant anteaters, and curious capybaras. The ranch’s experienced vaqueros, or cowboys, share their intimate knowledge of the land, pointing out hidden wildlife tracks and teaching guests traditional ranching techniques.
Birdwatching at Wichabai is an unforgettable experience, with hundreds of recorded bird species in the area. Early morning excursions reveal vibrant macaws, elusive harpy eagles, and numerous migratory species that find refuge here. Canoeing along the ranch’s tranquil waterways offers another perspective, allowing visitors to glide quietly past basking caimans and playful giant otters.
Cultural immersion at Wichabai is equally enriching. Guests have opportunities to engage with local indigenous communities, learning traditional skills such as bow and arrow crafting, cassava bread making, and medicinal plant identification. These exchanges foster deeper connections and a greater understanding of the harmonious relationship between humans and the environment in this remote corner of Guyana.
Conservation efforts at Wichabai are commendable and ongoing. Collaborations with researchers help document the region’s ecological diversity, while conservation programs educate visitors and locals alike on sustainable land use practices. The McTurks emphasize minimal environmental impact, ensuring that Wichabai remains a sanctuary for generations to come.
Saddle Mountain Ranch Living the Vaquero Tradition
Saddle Mountain Ranch is a short yet equally captivating journey away, a sprawling cattle operation founded over 30 years ago by the Kenyon family. Set against the backdrop of the imposing twin peaks from which the ranch derives its name, Saddle Mountain offers a different but complementary ranching experience—rooted deeply in Guyanese vaquero traditions.
At Saddle Mountain, life revolves around cattle ranching. Guests are warmly invited to participate in daily ranch activities, making this not merely a visit but a hands-on experience. Whether assisting in cattle roundups, joining in branding sessions, or learning to ride and care for horses, each activity offers a genuine taste of ranch life. The family and their skilled ranch hands ensure every visitor, regardless of previous experience, feels part of the ranch community, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.
Horseback expeditions are a highlight at Saddle Mountain. Extended rides can take visitors deep into the wilderness, where evenings are spent camping under expansive star-filled skies. These expeditions connect profoundly to the landscape as riders traverse diverse terrains—from wide-open savannahs to dense forests—encountering wildlife such as armadillos, peccaries, and even the occasional jaguar track.
The ranch itself provides comfortable yet simple accommodations. Traditional cabins built from local materials feature practical amenities designed to blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings. Shared meals, prepared by the family, provide hearty sustenance and a sense of camaraderie that quickly makes guests feel at home. Dishes are often a delicious blend of traditional ranch fare and local Guyanese cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Saddle Mountain Ranch also offers opportunities for cultural learning, inviting guests to master traditional ranch skills such as bullwhip cracking, lasso throwing, and even indigenous archery. These activities aren’t merely demonstrations—interactive experiences that preserve and celebrate local heritage, providing insight into the skills that have defined life here for generations.
Wildlife viewing at Saddle Mountain is similarly rewarding. The ranch’s proximity to the South Rupununi Conservation Society’s protected areas means that guests regularly spot wildlife such as giant anteaters, red-footed tortoises, and countless bird species, enriching the experience with close encounters in a natural setting.
A Shared Vision Sustainable Tourism and Community
Both Wichabai Ranch and Saddle Mountain Ranch embody the spirit of sustainable tourism, demonstrating that responsible travel can support environmental conservation and local economic development. Each ranch actively contributes to community well-being, offering employment opportunities and fostering cultural pride through its immersive programs.
These ranches are not merely destinations but platforms for education and advocacy, raising awareness about the South Rupununi’s ecological significance. Wichabai and Saddle Mountain Ranch invite visitors to become ambassadors for a fragile yet remarkably resilient ecosystem by prioritizing sustainability and authentic cultural interactions, empowering them with knowledge and a sense of responsibility.
Planning Your Visit
Travelers interested in visiting these ranches should prepare for a journey off the beaten path. Access typically involves flights from Georgetown to Lethem and scenic drives across the savannah. While remote, both ranches ensure guest comfort, blending rustic charm with practical amenities.
Visitors should pack appropriately for outdoor activities—sturdy boots, lightweight clothing, hats, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a sense of adventure. Both ranches welcome families, solo travelers, and groups, offering tailored experiences to suit varied interests and abilities.
Whether you’re riding horseback across the savannah at sunrise, learning traditional skills under the guidance of friendly vaqueros, or simply relaxing on your cabin veranda as dusk settles over the landscape, a visit to Wichabai or Saddle Mountain Ranch offers a rare chance to reconnect with nature and witness firsthand the transformative power of sustainable tourism.
