expedition Indiana Jones adventure Colombian Amazon tepui Cerro Morokko Jirijirimo waterfall Amazon tributaries Vaupes jungle Barasana tribe abandoned coca plantations Pablo Escobar Mzungu ethnographer Jurgen Kuller Amazonia Orinocia ethnographic research

Dassanech Karo tribe Bulls jumping ceremony Assale Afar
Discover the north of South America like a true explorer: from the tropical jungles of French Guiana to the turquoise beaches of Trinidad and Tobago.

Imagine: you are standing on the deck of a catamaran, surrounded by the towering rocks of the Salvation Islands archipelago. On the islands, you can see the ruins of an ancient prison, with turquoise water sparkling under the sun.

At the other end of the route is the Ariane Spaceport in Kourou, where rockets are prepared for launch, and the iron and fire seem to breathe space. Between these two points lie the jungles of Suriname with the Maroons, who remember the stories of runaway slaves and rivers full of dolphins.

A walk through the streets of Paramaribo passes by wooden and brick colonial houses, preserving the city's history. The highlight of the route will be Kaieteur Falls—millions of liters of water plunging into the abyss, raising a cloud of spray and birthing a rainbow in the tropical air.

And all of this—to the rhythm of the jungle, rivers, space, and Caribbean life. Trinidad and Tobago add color, music, and relaxed happiness to the expedition: drums, laughter, beaches, sun, and fresh seafood enjoyed while gazing at the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

This expedition is a big Indiana Jones-like adventure deep in the Colombian Amazon and a unique chance to meet Barasana tribal group that contacted with an outer world only few times. The passionate German ethnographer who discovered this Barasana group in 2017, shares his feelings:
The expedition is co-led by our expert – the German passionate ethnographer Jurgen Kuller – a unique traveler who has been to Amazonia and Orinocia for ethnographic research far more than 10 times, of which twice in the Barasana tribe.

SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: December 4 – 15, 2026

Duration: 12 days / 11 nights

Group Size: 8 – 12 participants

Price per person:

  • 6,090 USD for 12 participants
  • 6,290 USD for 10–11 participants
  • 6,590 USD for 8–9 participants

10% early booking discount if booked before May 4, 2026

Included (all-inclusive, including all 6 internal flights), except for:

  • International flights to Cayenne (French Guiana) and back from Port of Spain (Trinidad and Tobago);
  • International travel medical insurance;
  • Visa for French Guiana: citizens of the Russian Federation require a short-stay national visa for French Overseas Departments. A regular Schengen visa is not valid for this trip. The visa must be obtained and paid for at the French Embassy (cost ≈ 96 EUR, subject to change);
  • Visas for Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago (not required for citizens of the Russian Federation);

Estimated cost of international flights (booked independently, we can provide recommendations):

- Moscow → Cayenne / Port of Spain → Moscow: from 2,200 USD
- Istanbul → Cayenne / Port of Spain → Istanbul: from 1,800 USD
- Paris → Cayenne / Port of Spain → Amsterdam: from 1,800 USD

Single supplement: 740 USD (single accommodation is available throughout the entire route).


EXPEDITION ITINERARY: tour of French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago

Day 1. December 4, 2026 (Friday). Arrival in French Guiana

Welcome to French Guiana! After your flight, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. In the evening, you can stroll along the Cayenne waterfront, soak up the tropical atmosphere, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Meals included: None
Accommodation included: Royal Amazonia 4* or similar

Recommended flights:
— Air France, AF890, arriving in Cayenne at 15:10
— AF856, arriving at 16:20
— Any flight arriving in Cayenne on December 4


Day 2. December 5, 2026 (Saturday). Cayenne – Kourou

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin exploring Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana. A panoramic city tour lasting about three hours will take us to see historic buildings, colonial-era architecture, as well as a visit to the local museum and other cultural sites to better understand the history of the region and its role in the story of French Guiana. The tour combines bus transfers and walking segments, allowing you to see the city from different perspectives.

After the tour, we depart for Kourou — the journey takes approximately forty-five minutes. Here we will visit the famous space center where rockets are prepared for launch. We will see the launch pads, the control center, and the space museum, learning about French Guiana's role in global space programs and witnessing modern technology in action. If for any reason the spaceport visit is not available, the program will include the space museum and a walk along the Rotama trail to explore the local natural environment.

After the visit, we check into our hotel in Kourou, where you can relax and prepare for the next day. In the evening, you have the option to dine at the hotel or choose a local restaurant.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel Atlantis 3* or similar


Day 3. December 6, 2026 (Sunday). Salvation Islands (Îles du Salut)

Today we are going on a journey to the famous Salvation Islands — an archipelago rich in history and unique nature. An early start at 7:45 AM, transfer to the dock where a catamaran awaits us. Along the way, we enjoy views of the river and distant tropical shores, preparing to immerse ourselves in the region's history.

On board the catamaran, we will head to Royal Island and Saint Joseph Island. On Île Royale, we will visit historical sites: the old fort, the prison, and the areas where the wardens worked. Here we will grasp the scale and significance of these places in the colonial history of French Guiana and feel the atmosphere of bygone eras.

In the afternoon, we continue exploring the islands from the water: a boat ride around the archipelago offers a different perspective of the islands. For those interested, there is an opportunity to swim at Royal Island — here the ocean opens up with its clear water, and you can relax on the shore after the walk.

Towards evening, we return to Kourou, the transfer taking about an hour. Check-in at the hotel, rest after an eventful day, and preparation for tomorrow's journey.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Hotel Atlantis 3* or similar


Day 4. December 7, 2026 (Monday). SAINT-LAURENT-DU-MARONI – CROSSING INTO SURINAME

After breakfast, we leave Kourou and head towards the border with Suriname. Our first stop is the town of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, where we will visit the historic "Bagne" transportation camp, known as the setting for the events in the book and film Papillon. We will connect with the dramatic history of the region and understand how the lives of prisoners intertwined with the nature of the jungles and rivers of French Guiana.

In the afternoon, we cross the border into Suriname by ferry or pirogue and go through immigration control. Afterwards, we will visit the Peperpot Nature Park — a former coffee and cocoa plantation that is now a protected area rich in flora and fauna. Here we can observe local wildlife, learn about the plantation's history, and sense how the jungle is gradually reclaiming the space.

After the excursion, transfer to the hotel in Paramaribo. In the evening, after a light dinner, there will be a night tour of the Peperpot park grounds, lasting about three hours. The night tour allows you to see animal activity after sunset and enjoy the silence of the tropical jungle. We spend the night at the cozy Peperpot Boutique Hotel, located within the park.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Peperpot Boutique Hotel or similar


Day 5. December 8, 2026 (Tuesday). PARAMARIBO AND DOLPHIN WATCHING

Today we immerse ourselves in the colorful atmosphere of Paramaribo — a vibrant, multi-layered city where the Dutch colonial past meets the rich culture of the local Maroons and other peoples of Suriname. We begin with a walk through the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We'll see squares lined with majestic palm trees, Fort Zeelandia, and colonial buildings with carved facades, and we'll also browse the Maroon market, where stalls overflow with spices, fruits, and crafts. Strolling along the waterfront, you can feel the city's rhythm — the scents of fresh pastries, tropical fruits, and the river intertwine with the noise of motorboats and the voices of traders.

After the morning walk, we have lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, an unusual water adventure awaits: a boat trip on the Suriname River, where dolphins are often spotted. These playful and curious creatures frequently surface near the boat, reminding us that we are guests in their environment. Along the way, we will stop at the open-air museum in New Amsterdam, where historic buildings and monuments from the colonial era are preserved, before returning to Paramaribo.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation included: Torarica Resort or similar


Day 6. December 9 (Wednesday). MAROON COMMUNITIES

Today we will truly immerse ourselves in the jungles of Suriname and the life of the Maroon communities — descendants of runaway slaves who have preserved their traditions and connection with nature for centuries. After breakfast, we leave the city and head towards the upper reaches of the Suriname River, where we will be met by local guides and community residents. The journey passes through dense tropical forests and winding river routes, with each mile taking us deeper into the jungle atmosphere.

Arriving at the village, we will meet a local family, see their homes, and learn about their daily life and traditions. After lunch, a walk through the jungle: trails lead to quiet backwaters where you can relax surrounded by greenery and the sounds of nature. In the evening, a night boat ride during which we will search for caimans with flashlights and listen to the profound silence of the jungle. We will spend the night in comfortable lodges on the Anaula River, with private bathrooms and air conditioning, where you can enjoy complete silence and a feeling of unity with nature.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (non-alcoholic beverages)
Accommodation included: Anaula River Lodge


Day 7. December 10, 2026 (Thursday). SURINAME JUNGLE

Today is entirely dedicated to local life and natural wonders. After breakfast, we will swim in the river rapids — the bubbling water gently massages the body, turning the jungle into a natural spa. The guide will show us another neighboring village, and we will explore their way of life by boat, discussing their traditions and their relationship with the river and forest.
After lunch, the local residents will put on a cultural performance with dances, music, and songs, offering a glimpse into how Maroon rituals and ceremonies are preserved. We'll spend another night at the Anaula Lodge, enjoying the starry sky and the sounds of the forest.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (non-alcoholic beverages)
Accommodation included: Anaula River Lodge


Day 8. December 11, 2026 (Friday). SURINAME JUNGLE — PARAMARIBO

The morning begins with quiet time for yourself: walks along the river, birdwatching, and meditation amidst the jungle.
In the afternoon, we start the journey back to Paramaribo, where we check into the Torarica hotel in the evening. The evening is free — you can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy the city's cafes, and make your first notes about the adventures that have just concluded, but will remain in your memory forever.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation included: Torarica Resort or similar


Day 9. December 12, 2026 (Saturday). FLIGHT TO GUYANA AND KAIETEUR FALLS

Today we leave Suriname and head to Guyana. After breakfast, transfer to the airport, and soon we are in the air, heading to Georgetown. The city greets us with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and the bustling Stabroek Market. We'll stroll along the waterfront, visit the majestic cathedral, and feel the blend of history and modernity that makes Georgetown unique.

After lunch, we take a flight to one of the world's most impressive waterfalls — Kaieteur. A sharp ascent over the tropical rainforest — and there it is, a 226-meter (741 ft) cascade of water plunging from a single cliff, turning the river into white foam and creating a powerful spectacle against the backdrop of endless jungle. We will spend about two hours here, exploring the trails around the falls, photographing it from different angles, and enjoying the sounds and power of nature.

In the evening, we return to Georgetown, where we check into the Best Western hotel to rest after an eventful day.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Best Western Georgetown

Day 10. December 13, 2026 (Sunday). FLIGHT TO TRINIDAD

Today we leave Guyana and head to Trinidad (with a long layover for a domestic flight to Tobago). After arrival, time is allotted for the connection to the domestic flight to Tobago.
In Tobago, transfer to the Mt. Irvine Beach Hotel. Free time.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation included: Mt. Irvine Beach Hotel


Day 11. December 14, 2026 (Monday). TOBAGO

Today is a full day for relaxation in Tobago. You can spend time on the beach, explore the surroundings, or choose excursions as you wish — for example, a trip to the coral reefs to observe marine life or a walk around the island.

Meals included: None
Accommodation included: Mt. Irvine Beach Hotel


Day 12. December 15 (Tuesday). TOBAGO – TRINIDAD – RETURN FLIGHT HOME

In the morning, transfer from the hotel to Tobago's airport for a domestic flight to Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad. Upon arrival, you will have a brief opportunity to get acquainted with the city and its main attractions.

At 14:30, a transfer is provided to the international airport for departure to Europe or other destinations.

Recommended flights:
— Turkish Airlines / Istanbul — departure from Port of Spain on December 16 at 03:40, arrival in Istanbul on December 17 at 15:30 (layover in Panama 12 hrs 50 mins);
— KLM / Amsterdam — departure from Port of Spain on December 16 at 19:20, arrival in Amsterdam on December 17 at 09:30 (an extra night in Port of Spain required);
— any flight from Port of Spain after 17:00 on December 15.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: None
Cost includes:
  • Accommodation in 4* (and comfortable 3*) hotels with buffet breakfasts.
  • All transfers along the route.
  • All 29-seat buses with microphone and air conditioning, separate luggage bus for airport transfers to/from the airport.
  • All local taxes and fees.
  • Entrance tickets to parks, museums, and attractions.
  • Flight to Kaieteur Falls and back (as part of a group of up to 13 people).
  • Flight Suriname → Guyana.
  • Flight Guyana → Trinidad.
  • Flight Trinidad → Tobago and back.
  • Meals as per the program, including bottled water during the tour.
  • Visa/entry voucher for Suriname (arranged by the tour operator).
  • English-speaking guide and team leader Mzungu throughout the tour.

Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • International flight to Cayenne.
  • International flight from Trinidad.
  • Meals not specified in the program.
  • Tips for the guide and driver.
  • Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and personal expenses.
  • Single supplement.

To take with:

  • 3 sets of clothing (trousers, long-sleeved shirt, t-shirt, underwear, socks, sun hat — synthetic materials preferred)
  • Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight shoes (trainers/running shoes)
  • Light jacket
  • Raincoat
  • Swimming gear
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Personal first aid kit (painkillers, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration salts, intestinal medications, any personal medications you require)
  • Personal hygiene items (including towel, wet wipes, soap)
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Sleeping bag for warm weather
  • Mosquito net
  • Various repellents for skin and clothing
  • Antimalarial medication prophylaxis (your decision, but recommended — strains Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate
  • Waterproof pouch for documents
  • Photo and video equipment
  • Spare batteries and power bank for photo/video equipment
  • Waterproof case for camera equipment (recommended)
  • Duffel bag/suitcase for luggage
  • Small backpack for personal items
This expedition is led by
  • ALEX KOLBOV aka MZUNGU
    Founder of MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS. An ideologist and a team leader of many expeditions, including the first Russian expedition in Niger for Cure Salée festival, the first commercial expedition to Yanomami tribe in Venezuela, the first Russian dog expedition to Cape Dezhnev.
    Ethnographer, photographer, author of numerous publications in Discovery and Vokrug Sveta magazines, member of the Russian Geographical Society.
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
    We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears.
  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
    We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort.
  • REASONABLE PRICE
    All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.

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