The Mighty Essequibo, Guyana’s Longest River

Published: 10th of October, 2024 by Patrick Carpen

Guyana is known as the “Land of Many Waters,” with several significant rivers flowing through the country. There are at least five major rivers in Guyana:

1. Essequibo River – The longest and largest river in Guyana.

2. Demerara River

3. Berbice River

4. Corentyne River – Forms the border with Suriname.

5. Pomeroon River

In addition to these major rivers, there are numerous smaller tributaries and waterways throughout the country.

The Essequibo River is approximately 1,014 kilometers (630 miles) long, making it the longest river in Guyana and one of the longest rivers in South America. It flows from the Acarai Mountains in southern Guyana to the Atlantic Ocean.

The Essequibo River is formed in the Acarai Mountains, located in southern Guyana, near the border with Brazil. It begins as small streams and tributaries in this mountainous region, which eventually merge to form the main river. As it flows northward, the Essequibo River collects water from various tributaries, including the Rupununi, Mazaruni, and Cuyuni rivers, significantly increasing its size. The river travels through a diverse landscape of rainforests, savannas, and plains before reaching its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean.

The Essequibo River in Guyana is known for having numerous islands, with an estimated 365 islands along its length. Some of the larger and more notable islands include:

1. Hogg Island – the largest, covering about 60 square kilometers.
2. Wakenaam Island
3. Leguan Island

These islands vary in size, with some being large enough for agriculture and settlements, while others are smaller and mostly uninhabited.