description Rupununi Savannas Overview
The Rupununi Savannas are extensive tropical grasslands in southwestern Guyana, bordered by forested uplands and divided broadly into northern and southern areas by the Kanuku Mountains. Seasonal rains flood parts of the landscape and create temporary connections between waterways belonging to the Essequibo and Amazon drainage systems. The region supports ranching, Indigenous communities, wetlands, and diverse wildlife, making it significant to biogeography, conservation, and the study of seasonal savanna ecosystems.
insights Ranking position
Rupununi Savannas ranks #51 of 265 in the Plain ranking, behind Mekong Delta, ahead of Ebro Basin.
help Rupununi Savannas FAQ
Where are the Rupununi Savannas within Guyana?
They occupy a large part of southwestern Guyana near the Brazilian border. The Kanuku Mountains divide the landscape broadly into northern and southern savanna regions.
Why do parts of the Rupununi flood during the rainy season?
Seasonal rainfall raises rivers and spreads water across low grasslands and wetlands. During major floods, temporary aquatic connections can form between the Rupununi River system and waters associated with the Amazon basin.
What large animals live in the Rupununi Savannas?
The wider region supports giant anteaters, jaguars, giant river otters, black caimans, and many bird species. Habitats range from open grassland to gallery forest, wetlands, rivers, and the forested Kanuku Mountains.
Who lives in the Rupununi Savannas?
Indigenous peoples including the Makushi and Wapishana maintain communities across the region. Ranching is also historically important, with Lethem serving as the main town and a gateway near Guyana's border with Brazil.
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