Guyana is often called the “Land of Many Waters” because of its vast and intricate network of rivers, which play a critical role in transportation, agriculture, fishing, and hydropower. Many of these rivers originate in the interior highlands and flow north into the Atlantic Ocean.
Major Rivers in Guyana
1. Essequibo River
- Longest river in Guyana (over 1,000 km / 630 miles).
- Originates in the Acarai Mountains near Brazil and flows north to the Atlantic.
- Features many rapids, waterfalls, and islands (like Hogg Island).
- Supports transport, fishing, gold mining, and hydropower.
2. Demerara River
- Flows through central Guyana, including the capital Georgetown.
- Important for shipping and port activity (e.g., bauxite and sugar exports).
- Crossed by the Demerara Harbour Bridge—one of the world’s longest floating bridges.
3. Berbice River
- Flows through eastern Guyana.
- Historically important during Dutch colonial times.
- The town of New Amsterdam is located along its banks.
4. Corentyne River
- Forms the eastern border with Suriname.
- Long and wide river used for transportation and irrigation.
- Site of historical territorial disputes with Suriname.
Other Important Rivers
| River Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Cuyuni River | Flows from Venezuela into Guyana; known for gold mining. |
| Mazaruni River | Merges with the Cuyuni and flows into the Essequibo; known for diamonds and gold. |
| Potaro River | A tributary of the Essequibo; home to Kaieteur Falls—one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. |
| Waini River | Northern river; supports Amerindian communities and logging. |
| Pomeroon River | Short coastal river between the Essequibo and Waini; fertile agricultural region. |
| Takutu River | Forms part of the border with Brazil; near Lethem in Region 9. |
| Siparuni River | Remote river in the interior used for eco-tourism and mining. |
Cultural & Economic Importance
- Many rivers are lifelines for Amerindian communities.
- Used for transportation, fishing, logging, and gold mining.
- Also critical for biodiversity and eco-tourism.
