The Maraikobai community is located some 95 miles up the Mahaicony River and is home to 1000 residents. The area is accessible both by river and land; logging and small scale agriculture are the primary economic activities here. In an effort to promote domestic tourism and to increase the opportunity of experiencing indigenous culture and history, Rainforest Tours has coordinated the Maraikobai Safari which is now in its second year. According to the Safari Coordinator Frank Singh the Maraikobai off road village safari kicked off on February 23rd and will end today, Sunday 25th.
The Pakaraima Mountain Safari Club, Rainforest Tours, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and Sonic Hunters Motorcycle Club, are collaborating to host the safari expedition for 2018.
The Maraikobai offroad safari offers the unique opportunity to explore what is the only Arawak village in Region 5 (Demerara-Mahaica). Back in 2016, a team including representatives from from the Guyana Tourism Authority, Rainforest Tours, Wilderness Explorers, and birding Expert Leon Moore ventured to the community on a fact finding mission to gauge the tourism potential of the area.
According to Coordinators, the journey from Georgetown to Moraikobai through the sand trail begins at the Linden/highway junction and allows participants the chance to enjoy an adventurous ride and amazing scenery along the way. Frank Singh also pointed out that the overland trek (the trail) presents an opportunity for tourists to experience a different atmosphere from that of the Rupununi Safaris.
Another option for accessing the community is to enjoy a two-hour boat ride down the calm Mahaicony River, connecting to the Francois Creek, which then leads visitors straight to the landing at Moraikobai.
Moraikobai’s very special delicacy is the tocuma worm.
There are plans to construct an ecotourism lodge which would introduce community-based tourism in the village. Visitors to the community can expect spectacular sightseeing, including the possibilities of seeing the elusive Giant Anteater. There are also other exciting activities, like fishing, canoeing, and bird watching while experiencing the lifestyle of the villagers. During the safari, villagers will demonstrate how cassava bread, pepper-pot and craft items are made. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
