“The Highway”
The Linden-Soesdyke Highway, or simply “The Highway,” is more than just a strip of asphalt connecting Georgetown to the interior town of Linden. It’s a passage through some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes that Guyana has to offer. Snaking approximately 80 miles across many flowing creeks, up and down lush green hills, the white sand beside it glinting in the sunlight or in the moonlight, this highway plays a vital role in the lives of many, it is the gateway to fields of gold and diamond and yet it carries a charm and mystique that turns this drive into an adventure.
A Scenic Route to the Heart of the Jungle
For visitors, this route offers a glimpse into Guyana’s vibrant biodiversity. It starts at what is called “The Junction”, branching away from the East Bank road that would bring you towards the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
Not very long ago, for the initial five miles or so it was still bordered by dense rainforest but as civilization is beginning to creep inward the landscape is being transformed. Still you can imagine the tall trees and the monkeys springing from limb to limb. It is especially poignant if you travel on foot that even here at the beginning (of this journey) you can still hear the birds, the crickets and the howler monkeys, and the sounds of the rainforest will grow louder as you journey in, creating a natural soundtrack for the journey.
Communities Along the Highway
The Highway isn’t just a road; it’s a lifeline for the communities along its path. The villages with exotic names like Kuru-Kururu and that of Yarrowkabra are only some of the settlements you’ll encounter. Then there are Swan, Haurraruni and Long Creek, villages all named by the original peoples of Guyana, close-knit communities where the residents live harmoniously with the forest.
Each village along The Highway has its own character and charm. These communities are resilient, and life here moves at its own pace, connected to the rhythms of the natural world.
Unexpected Attractions
Along the Highway, there are several hidden gems worth exploring like Splashmins Fun Park and Resort, a favourite for families, offering sandy beaches and a lake on which you can frolic on a jet ski or a boat. But, If you wish to stay longer than a day there is a Hotel with all the amenities. Then again, if you wish to retire opulently, you can build your own mansion here behind security gates offering privacy and safety.
A bit further down, you’ll find Pandama Retreat & Winery, an oasis in the jungle where you can sample local fruit wines and unwind in a hammock under the trees.
For the more adventurous, there are hiking trails that veer off from the main road. Some of these trails lead to remote creeks and hidden waterfalls—a perfect escape into the raw beauty of the rainforest.
A Journey Beyond Roads
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, travelling The Highway is about more than reaching a destination. It’s about immersing yourself in the beauty and spirit that is Guyana’s to share. The highway itself might be just a strip of road, but the journey is rich with discovery, connection, and a sense of adventure that captures the heart, calms the mind and evokes possibilities of every human endeavour.
So, next time you find yourself on The Highway, take a moment to pause, breathe in the fresh forest air, and let the rhythm of the journey guide you.