Discover Sloth Island – A Magical Island with Amazing Creatures

Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with a sloth? If so, Sloth Island is the perfect place for you! It’s a mystical island in the Essequibo River in Guyana, with a large sloth population. Discover Sloth Island and all the unique species that live there.

Whether you’re looking to view sloths up close or go bird-watching, there is plenty to do. In fact, there is a resort situated directly on the island that allows you to book a few night’s stay. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s explore Sloth Island and all it has to offer.

What Is Sloth Island?

Sloth Island is a small territory booming with wildlife and situated alongside the Essequibo River. Home to many animal species, this small swampy paradise is the perfect place to see sloths and birds up close and personal. Opposite the town of Bartica, the island boasts a perfect location for a retreat.

Previously, the thick swamp was free from humans but was found by Guyanan settlers exploring the Essequibo River. The abundance of sloths amazed the first settlers, as it didn’t compare to other places nearby. Thus, the small quaint island was named “Sloth Island.” 

Since the island became popular for seeing sloths, R. Ades transformed it into a swampy paradise resort in 1997. Most of the island was previously uninhabited by humans and consisted only of wildlife. However, it became a popular place in Guyana to see sloths up close and personal.

Today, the three-level Sloth Island Nature Resort is a destination for anyone wanting to relax and immerse themselves in the surrounding wildlife. There is plenty to do, as the rest offers modern attractions and animal watching. Many visitors come specifically for the sloths and birds, but there is plenty to do!

Wildlife and Plantlife on Sloth Island

The Sloth Island Resort spreads across 160 acres of rainforest, home to abundant wildlife. While the main attraction is the large sloth population, a handful of other exotic animals live on the rainforest floor and in the trees. 

Some animals that can be found on the island include:

• Parrots
• Howler Monkeys
• Toucans
• Manakins
• Woodpeckers
• Hummingbirds
• Tyrant Flycatchers
• Harpy Eagles
• Pale-Throated Sloth
• Opossums
• Capybara
• Lizards
• And more!

Over 188 bird species are found on Sloth Island, along with five species of monkeys. Other species seen throughout the island include sloths, opossums, capybara, lizards, toads, and butterflies. As you can see, the island features a wide variety of exotic wildlife you won’t be able to see in many other places.

In addition, there are 155 acres of dense mixed forest. Most of the island remains untouched by humans despite being turned into a resort. The company wanted to create a nature reserve and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty. Floral and vegetation include black mangroves, cabbage palms, wild cocoa, and more. 

What Can You Do on Sloth Island?

While wildlife viewing is the most popular activity on the island, there are other things to do that are just as fun. Whether visitors want indoor activities or outdoor excursions, there is always something to do. Below are just some of the activities visitors can partake in while they stay at the resort.

Tours

Amongst the multiple activities, one that stands out is the Parrot Island tour. Here, you can tour the island and get up close and personal with colorful birds living there. In addition, you can attend a wildlife tour, which allows you to view sloths in their natural habitat. As tempting as it is, you can’t touch or hold them, but they are friendly and used to visitors.

Not into animals? Other tours, such as the Amerindian Village tour, allow you to immerse yourself in the culture of the Guyana people. Sloth Island also provides nature tours, allowing you to view the rainforest, Baracara waterfalls, Marshall Falls, and surrounding rivers.

Outdoor Sports

Activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. While most of these activities are done in groups, visitors can also walk around certain island areas open to the public. It’s a great way to spot animals that are out during the day.

Birdwatching

One of the main attractions of Sloth Island is its birdwatching. A 1.5 km trail spans across the northern point and high area. This trail can be walked and is lined with a multitude of trees. Here, you can view all the bird wildlife, such as manakins, woodpeckers, falcons, parrots, hummingbirds, and more.

Sloth Island in Summary

Sloth Island is the perfect getaway if you want to immerse yourself in Guyana’s animals. The island has a ton to do, and it’s only a short distance from the mainland. Hence, it’s a popular destination for tourists and the people of Guyana.

All in all, Guyana is a unique place, and Sloth Island is perfect for outdoor and animal enthusiasts. Just be sure to book a tour ahead of schedule. Otherwise, you might find that there isn’t any room for visitors.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © COULANGES/Shutterstock.com