Upcoming Tour: Essequibo River Jungle Trip
Learn real jungle survival in Guyana with Indigenous Makushi instructors, then put your skills to the test during a 3 days solo phase deep in the rainforest. A once-in-a-lifetime course combining traditional forest knowledge, modern safety systems, and true wilderness immersion.
A glimpse into the landscapes, challenges, and breakthroughs that define our survival courses.
From first inquiry to first night in the jungle, we prepare you for everything so the wild can teach you the rest.
Reserve your spot or send an enquiry. We’ll confirm every detail with you before anything is booked.
These are the reasons people travel across the world for this course and why they remember it for the rest of their lives.
“This course has always been about more than testing limits. The jungle has a way of slowing people down and showing them what they are capable of when life becomes simple: shelter, fire, water, food, patience, and mindset. We prepare you step by step with instructors who know this forest deeply, and when the solo phase begins, it is not about being left behind. It is about being trusted with the skills you have built and discovering confidence in a place most people will only ever dream of sitting alone.”
Lead Instructor
This jungle survival course takes you deep into the untouched rainforests of the North Rupununi, where the Burro Burro River winds through one of Guyana’s most remote and biodiverse landscapes. Guided by Indigenous Makushi instructors and The Wild Tales expedition team, you will learn how to survive, adapt, and function using the natural resources of the rainforest.
The first part of the course focuses on core survival skills: shelter, fire, water, fishing, machete use, camp craft, jungle safety, and understanding the forest around you. After training, you move into a solo survival phase, spending 3 days alone in the rainforest with only the skills and equipment provided through the course.
For those wanting a deeper challenge, the course can be extended to 15 days / 14 nights with a 5-day solo phase. This optional extension is for guests who want more time alone, greater self-reliance, and a stronger personal test.
No previous survival experience is required. This course is designed for people with a positive mindset, a willingness to learn, and the ability to work through discomfort. It is challenging but structured, supported, and guided by people who know this rainforest intimately.
This is not a sightseeing tour. It is a rare opportunity to train with Indigenous instructors, live close to the forest, and walk away with confidence, humility, and skills you will remember for life.
Arrive in Georgetown and transfer to your hotel. Meet your expedition leader and fellow participants for a pre-departure briefing covering the course structure, safety systems, equipment, and expectations.
Take an early domestic flight to Lethem followed by overland transfer to Surama Eco Lodge. Meet the Makushi instructors, settle in, and prepare for the jungle phase.
Begin jungle survival training near the Burro Burro River. Learn shelter building, hammock and tarp setup, fire-lighting, water sourcing, machete use, fishing, camp hygiene, and jungle safety.
Move deeper into the forest and river system. Set up remote camps, practise more advanced skills, and prepare mentally and practically for the solo survival phase.
Enter the solo phase. Spend 72 hours alone in the rainforest, applying your training and managing your own shelter, water, fire, food, safety, and mindset.
Extended Option: Guests choosing the 15-day version continue the solo phase for 5 days / 4 nights before extraction.
Extraction and return to Surama. Rest, clean equipment, debrief with instructors, share stories, and enjoy a proper meal after the solo phase.
Return to Georgetown by overland transfer and domestic flight. Final evening in the capital and time to reflect on the journey.
Departure from Guyana or onward travel.
For the extended 15-day version, return to Georgetown and departure are adjusted according to the longer solo phase.
Everything you need to know before booking your adventure
Everything you need to know before booking your adventure
Everything you need to know before booking your adventure
Everything you need to know before booking your adventure
The solo phase is designed as an individual experience, but in some cases it can be done with a partner or small group upon request.
There is inherent risk, but it is carefully managed with safety systems and instructor oversight.
Typically between 200 and 2000 meters from your location.
On selected courses, yes. This depends on logistics and conditions.
We provide essential jungle equipment including hammocks, machetes, ferro rods, and fishing gear.
Yes, except during the solo phase.
A diverse international group of participants with varying backgrounds.
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A hard 7-day mountain jungle survival course in the Pakaraima Mountains of Guyana, taught with Patamona forest guides from Kopinang. Train at the foot of Wokomung Tepui in steep rainforest terrain where food is scarcer, movement is harder, and survival demands precision.
A relaxed, hands-on introduction to jungle survival in Guyana, based at Rock Landing near Surama Village. Learn traditional rainforest skills with Makushi instructors, sleep in a jungle camp, and experience the forest at a pace suitable for beginners, families, couples, and private groups.
Our team knows these jungles inside and out. We’re happy to help you find the perfect adventure based on your interests, fitness level, and timeframe. Every journey is unique—let’s craft yours together.
To request more information about this trip, fill in the form below and we will send you a PDF version. We look forward to hearing from you.
