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Fort Island Beach

Savor a sunset over placid waters at this “end of the road” park where Crystal River meets the Gulf of Mexico.

Crystal River       ( 28.90871, -82.69109 )      0.6 miles

UPDATE : The hurricanes of 2023 decimated the pier and boardwalk at Fort Island Beach. It is unclear if they will be rebuilt. The beach and boat ramp remain open.

A county park at the end of Fort Island Trail in Crystal River, Fort Island Gulf Beach is home to the only sandy coastal beach reachable by car.

On a hammock of high land above the estuary the dead-end road snakes through to reach it, it sits at the outflow of Crystal River into the Gulf of Mexico at Crystal Bay.

Location: Crystal River Length: 0.6 mile loop Trailhead: 28.90871, -82.69109 Address: 16000 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River Fees: Free Restroom: At the beach Land manager: Citrus County Phone: 352-527-7540

Open 6 AM to 9:30 pm. No pets or fishing permitted at the beach or its jetties. Outdoor showers provided at beach restrooms.

There is one accessible beach pavilion with a surface mat to the water’s edge.

About the Park

A groomed sandy beach on the Gulf of Mexico is the main reason Fort Island Gulf Beach tends to be packed on sunny days.

It’s not huge, but neither is the beach parking area. Fort Island is indeed an island in the estuary at the river’s mouth, occupying 15 acres.

A secondary parking area past the beach is a small lot in a forested cove for access to the island’s shaded picnic pavilions and fishing pier.

Just beyond it there is a large lot for busy boater traffic. Near-shore fisherman launch small craft from a bustling boat ramp adjoined by its own pier.

Archaeological finds proved the high ground was an ancient settlement of the Weeden Island culture.

Boardwalks span this shaded coastal hammock from beach to picnic area and the long pier out into the Gulf.

Birders will find flocks of shorebirds settle on the sandy strand, and the usual array of herons and egrets patrolling the natural coastline.

In the hammock, listen for warblers. As this woodland is right on the Gulf of Mexico, migratory species use it as a jumping-off point for flights.

Start at the east end of the beach. Walk along the upper edge to survey the flocks of terns and gulls that settle in when the sunbathers don’t.

A concrete path passes the accessible beach shelter, where a rubberized surface leads to the water’s edge for wheelchair users.

Leaving the beach, the paved path winds into the coastal hammock. A raucous cry arises from a swale of freshwater marsh, fading as the frogs notice footfalls on the boardwalk.

The boardwalk zigzags through the dense forest, which is largely characterized by large oaks amid a palm hammock.

Meet a T intersection of boardwalks adjoining a large picnic pavilion. Turn left to walk out on the pier.

Even if you’re not fishing, the pier is a must for its views of the shoreline and distant islands along this ragged Gulf shoreline.

Osprey cry overhead as they scan for fish in the shallows. Walk out to the platform at the end, and you may spot dolphins chasing their dinners.

If anyone’s actively fishing, expect some feathered mooches in the form of great blue herons, brown pelicans, and crows hanging out on the railings.

The walk back to shoreline provides a panorama of the flank of the mangrove-fronted island. Watch for surfacing manatees.

Back in the picnic area, walk past the pavilion and a deck with picnic tables along the boardwalk straight ahead.

This boardwalk emerges from the hammock at the small parking area for the pier. Walk through it and follow the edge of the road along the hammock.

Its wetland is more obvious from this perspective. You reach the edge of the beach in a few hundred feet.

Leave the road to rejoin the concrete path and the beach itself. Continue along the beachfront.

Finish this 0.6 mile walk at the east end of the beach near the far pavilion.

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Best of Hawaii Four Island Tour

Our popular Four Island Hawaii vacation package allows you to experience the best of the Aloha state, under the guidance of our experienced local Tour Director.

Start in Oahu with three days of fun and relaxation. There is plenty of time to unwind on your own in between memorable activities like the Pearl Harbor Tour.

Continue to the Big Island where you will come to appreciate all the gifts the rich soil and tropical environment provide. Explore Volcanoes National Park and stroll along a black sand beach.

Next, take a quick flight to Kauai, nicknamed the “ Garden Isle ” for its verdant rainforests and tumbling waterfalls. Visit the spectacular Opaekaa Falls, and take a blissful riverboat cruise on the Wailua River up to the tropical Fern Grotto.

Your tour concludes on Maui, Hawaii’s second largest island. Visit Iao Valley and walk up the to the scenic viewpoint to see the Iao Needle and the view out to the ocean. End your tour with a scrumptious Hawaiian Farewell Breakfast.

• Pay your respects to American heroes on the Pearl Harbor Tour
• Stroll the world-famous Waikiki Beach
• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Walk the iconic Punaluu Black Sand Beach
• Experience lush Iao Valley
• Enjoy rain forest atmosphere on a Wailua River Cruise
• Included sightseeing tours on every island

What Guests are Saying

Polynesian Cultural Center

Dive deep into Polynesian culture on this immersive tour.

The Road To Hana

Unearth the untouched wonders of Hawaii on this tour.

Activity level

• Very Active

Tour Includes

Sightseeing

• Hawaii Island
• 3 Inter-Island Flights
• Includes one piece of checked baggage per person

Hotel Accommodations

• 8 nights beachfront and 3 nights centrally-located hotels
• Hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 2 Breakfasts
• A professionally trained local tour director who is knowledgeable about the area will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

• To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

Honolulu, HI

If you booked your flight with YMT, a representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Add-On : Pre tour night and the Grand Circle Island & Haleiwa tour in Oahu (Before Day 1 of the tour)

Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach or similar

After meeting your fellow travelers and friendly tour guide on an informative welcome breakfast briefing, you’ll begin your Pearl Harbor Tour. Learn about the events that brought the United States into WWII at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Continue to the National Cemetery of the Pacific, which is set in a dormant volcano known as Punchbowl Crater. Your day ends in Honolulu with a panoramic city tour including views of the State Capitol and Iolani Palace. (B)

Add-On : Rock-A-Hula Dinner Show

Enjoy a leisure day in paradise from your centrally located Waikiki hotel. You can walk just a few blocks to Waikiki Beach, whose white sand and clear blue waters make it one of the world’s best beaches. Nearby Kalakaua Avenue is a shopper’s paradise!

Add-On : Polynesian Cultural Center OR Oahu Circle Island Tour

Arrive in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii for a day of unique experiences. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Liliuokalani Gardens, a sprawling Japanese Garden that serves as a tribute to Hawaii’s first Japanese immigrants. Then discover Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Halemaumau Crater. The day continues at the iconic Punaluu Black Sand Beach, where Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, rest on the striking black sand. Our final stretch of the tour passes through small towns along the way to Kona. Kona is known for its coffee and its deep clear waters. (L)

King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort or similar

Enjoy two days of leisure on the Big Island. Lounge on the beach, bask in the warm waters, try your hand at surfing, or strap on some goggles and go snorkeling. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, you’re sure to enjoy visiting historic Kailua Town, or one of the island’s fruit orchards or coffee plantations.

Add-Ons : Atlantis Submarine/ Sunset Dinner Cruise/Snorkel Cruise Adventure/Hawaiian Luau in Kona

This tropical island paradise is known as the “Garden Isle” because of its lush forests, majestic mountains, and emerald valleys. Visit the magnificent Opaekaa Falls before heading to the Wailua River Marina. Take in the sights on a leisurely boat cruise along the beautiful Wailua River to the amazingly tropical and romantic Fern Grotto.

It’s no wonder that an impressive list of Hollywood productions have used this emerald island as a setting, including Jurassic Park , South Pacific and Gilligan’s Island . Kauai is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, and is home to tropical rain forests, forking rivers, and cascading waterfalls. Spend today at your leisure. For the ultimate island experience, take a spectacular tour to Waimea Canyon. Drive to the south side of the island and experience the breathtaking views of this mystical island.

Add-On : Waimea Canyon Tour

Visit Iao Valley and walk up the to the scenic viewpoint to see the Iao Needle and the view out to the ocean. The evening is yours to enjoy. The “Valley Isle” is the second largest Hawaiian Island, so you will have plenty of exciting activities to choose from!

Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort or similar

Spend two days savoring Maui. This majestic island has two main peaks that stand over a mile high, countless waterfalls and pools, 120 miles of shoreline, and more than 80 golden beaches. In addition, Maui is home to the Road to Hana Highway, one of the prettiest drives in the world. In the winter months, humpback whales frequent the warm, shallow waters off the coast.

Add-On : The Road To Hana/Day Tour to Haleakala Crater

On your final morning on the Islands, enjoy a farewell breakfast, as you bid goodbye to the islands! Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Most flights depart Hawaii from early afternoon through late evening; many do not arrive on the mainland until the next day. Guests who’ve booked their flights with YMT, please do not book any activities on the last day of your tour before receiving your confirmed flight information with your final documents, approximately 30 days prior to departure. (B)

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

Inquire Now

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare. Passport required.

Add airfare?

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

Ocean View Rooms

Upgrade your Hawaii experience and enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean!

An Ocean View room will ensure that you are able to see the Pacific from your balcony, although please note that this will not be a direct view, such as in an ocean-front room. Your view may be partially obscured by plants or trees, buildings, and other hotel infrastructure.

Here are some examples of the types of views you’ll encounter on your tour.

While staying in Honolulu, peek-a-boo ocean views are more common. Here you’ll be able to see glimpses of the Pacific Ocean between buildings.

Click to enlarge +

Hawaii Island (Big Island)

Your oceanfront hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii will be directly on the beach. An ocean view room here will provide views of the water, partially obscured by the hotel grounds.

In Kauai, your hotel will also be directly on the beach. Ocean view rooms will again provide views of the Pacific partially obscured by hotel grounds.

An ocean view room in Maui will be similar to Kauai, offering partial views of the Pacific Ocean in a hotel that sits directly on the beachfront.

I can’t tell you how much we enjoyed this trip

Hawaii vacation was top notch, this was our third visit to hawaii with ymt.

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.

Yes, triples are permitted (depending on availability).

You should arrive in Honolulu no later than 6pm. At the end of the tour, your flight home from Maui should depart no earlier than 12.30pm.

No, none are required.

Temperatures in Hawaii range between lower 80’s in the fall/winter months and higher 80’s in the summer months (May-Sep). Hawaii has a tropical climate, but the temperature can vary depending on altitude and the surroundings. The islands receive most of its rainfall from the trade winds on the north and east sides of each island. The coastal areas tend to be drier, especially the south and west sides. The rainy season tends to be during the winter months of October to April. The overnight temperature rarely drops below 65 degrees at the lower elevations. On this tour, you may experience lower temperatures at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (in the 60s during the daytime).

You can find more on the weather in Hawaii here .

We recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater for the buses or flights. As well, please consider the range of temperature and climates you may encounter in Hawaii and pack clothing you can be comfortable in for each of them. Wearing layers allows you to be comfortable on the bus and while sightseeing.

For more information, check out our What To Pack For Your Hawaiian Vacation article.

Anything you want! There are so many things to do on Oahu, but we do recommend going to the famous Waikiki Beach, shopping on Kalakaua Avenue, or to the Hawaii Army Museum. You may also want to join us on one of our most popular optional tours – Polynesian Cultural Center.

Yes we do! Check out our 14 Words You Should Know Before Visiting Hawaii article and our article on Unique Aspects of Hawaiian Culture . Also check out our blog for more information on Hawaii.

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Call us for pricing, and remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Founded in 1962, the Polynesian Cultural Center has been a place of preservation for Polynesia cultures. This living museum is the #1 paid attraction in Hawaii and brings to life the Islands of the Pacific including Samoa, New Zealand (Aotearoa), Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, and of course Hawaii. You’ll experience all of this with your very own YMT Tour Director as he guides you through the villages telling stories of his native homeland. After dinner, head into the Pacific Theater and enjoy seats for the evening show, ‘Ha: Breath of Life,’ a story of passion and love through dance, song and fire.

• Island inspired buffet dinner including an extensive salad bar with local fruits and vegetables, kalua pork, crispy shrimp with sweet chili garlic aioli, adobo fried chicken wings, a poke bar, and so much more
• Largest Polynesian show in the world with over 100 cast members
• Visit different Polynesian island villages
• Guided tour through the villages
• Take a canoe ride down the river that runs through the 42-acre park

Note:  Includes round trip transportation. There will be free time at the Polynesian Cultural Center for you to enjoy lunch on your own. You’ll depart the hotel at approximately 10:00 AM and return around 10:30 PM. If you’re on the Best Of Hawaii Four Island Tour or Hawaiian Escape Tour, remember this optional excursion conflicts with the Oahu Circle Island Tour optional tour, so please select only one of these optional excursions .

Duration: Approx. 12 Hours (Full Day)

Activity Level: Moderate

Price: $196 USD

Waterfalls, waterfalls, and waterfalls! Did we mention the waterfalls? If you wanted to come to Hawaii to see the untouched side, this is your opportunity! As you twist and turn around the coastline of Maui, you will see the lush rain forest and waterfalls. With stops along the way, you will see many scenic lookout points. It is more about the journey than the destination on the Road to Hana, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views around every corner.

• See the untouched side of Maui including numerous waterfalls, a tropical rainforest and the jagged coastline.
• A drive through the historic town of Hana
• Stop at Waianapanapa State Park which features a natural stone arch, blowholes, sparkling pools and a black sand beach
• Keanae Lookout where you can view the rocky black lava coastline
• Picnic lunch included

Note:  The Road to Hana has stretches with uneven surfaces which at times may produce a rough ride. This tour is not recommended for people who suffer from motion sickness. We suggest bringing snacks, a beverage, and a light jacket. Some of the walking is on uneven surfaces so we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.

Price: $285 USD

Kick off your time in Hawaii with Waikiki’s hottest show! Take a “Hawaiian Journey” from the 1920s to today through powerful music and dance. A local Hawaii recording artist and tribute artists will take you through the different musical eras in Hawaii.

• Buffet dinner – including carving station with whole luau pig, roast beef, lomi lomi salmon and much more
• One complimentary Mai Tai per person
• YMT exclusive premier seating
• Legendary performances with the best tribute acts in the industry.
• 42-foot-tall multimedia screens add to the experience with projections of actual concert footage

Note: Artists are subject to change. Your Tour Director will escort you to the venue which is in the Royal Hawaiian Center. This is a leisurely 15 minute walk from the hotel. Transportation is not included.

Duration: Approx. 4 hours (Evening)

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $137 USD

An ocean view room will ensure that you are able to see the Pacific from your hotel room balcony, although please note that this will not be a direct view, such as an oceanfront room. Your view may be partially obscured by plants or trees, buildings, and other hotel infrastructure.

• Oahu Hotel – Peek-a-boo ocean views are more common. Here you’ll be able to see glimpses of the Pacific Ocean between and over buildings.
• Hawaii Island – Your oceanfront hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii will be directly on the beach. An ocean view room here will provide a view of the water, partially obscured by the hotel grounds.
• Kauai – On Kauai, your hotel will also be directly on the beach. Ocean view rooms will again provide a view of the Pacific partially obscured by hotel grounds.
• Maui – An ocean view room on Maui will be similar to Kauai, offering partial views of the Pacific Ocean in a hotel that sits directly on the beachfront.

Note: Ocean view rooms are subject to availability and must be booked at least 60 days in advance. Standard single supplement applies. This is not a true optional tour. The room should be re-booked under the Ocean View category. Please take a look at Room Types for more information.

Price: $500 USD

Experience the Aloha spirit at one of Big Island’s most famous luaus, which is located adjacent to the Ahu’ena Heiau, a land traditionally known as Kamakahonu (eye of the turtle). Kamakahonu has been called one of the most historical sites in all of Hawaii. This oceanfront luau starts with a traditional imu ceremony with the sunset as your backdrop. After a hearty luau feast, sit back and enjoy the enchanting show.

• Buffet dinner including all the favorite luau dishes – Kalua Pork, Lomi Lomi Salmon, Hawaiian Style Ahi Poke, Poi, and Haupia
• Standard open bar including Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiis

Duration: Approx. 2.5 Hours (Evening)

Price: $179 USD

Experience the ocean floor without even getting your hair wet! The Atlantis Submarine dives to depths of 100 feet where you’ll see a beautiful 25-acre coral reef, local tropical fish, and even a ship wreck! This 48-passenger submarine will take you to places you never thought you would see and show you just how beautiful the ocean can really be.

• Explore a 25-acre natural coral reef and its marine inhabitants
• View coral formations and tropical fish
• Discover a sunken ship wreck 100 feet under the sea
• A shuttle boat will take you to the submarine. The submarine portion will be 45-50 minutes long.

Note:  Each guest is required to independently navigate a nearly vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours (morning)

Price: $161 USD

Spend one of your nights on the Big Island on an unforgettable dinner cruise as you cruise 12 miles down the Kona coast to Captain Cook’s monument. Listen to live entertainment and watch the beautiful sunset on the way back.

• Light appetizers upon boarding
• Hawaiian style dinner featuring locally grown products
• One complimentary cocktail and cash bar thereafter
• 3-hour dinner cruise with live entertainment

Note : Vessel is 2 decks and the lower deck is wheelchair accessible. Restrooms available

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (evening)

Price: $171 USD

Every winter, more than 8000 humpback whales journey to the warm waters of Hawaii where they breed, calve and nurse their young. This Whale Watching Cruise off the Big Island of Hawaii’s Kona Coast offers a rare opportunity to view and experience these whales.

• A chance to see humpback whales off the coast of Kona. You may also be lucky enough to see spinner dolphins, pilot and sperm whales, and manta rays.
• Complimentary sodas, juices, tea and coffee.

Note: This optional activity is seasonal and offered only January through March. Although this does not conflict with the Sunset Dinner Cruise nor Snorkel Cruise Adventure, we do not suggest joining this optional activity if you’ve purchased either of those optional activities as you may see whales from those other activities. The vessel is the same for all three activities.

Duration: Approx. 2.5 Hours (Afternoon)

Price: $119 USD

This is your chance to see Hawaii’s marine life up close and personal. This 4.5-hour cruise gives you about two hours of time in the water at the gorgeous Red Hill snorkeling reef gardens. In addition to colorful tropical fish, our guests typically encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles and Hawaiian spinner dolphins on this amazing snorkeling adventure. A ‘ride along’ option is available and is perfect for non-snorkelers who would like to enjoy the ocean from the deck.

• Continental breakfast and barbecue burger lunch
• Excellent chance of dolphin and other marine mammal sightings while cruising on the catamaran
• Feel free to soak up the sun on the deck
• All equipment is provided including snorkel gear, flotation devices, and reef-safe sunscreen

Note: The entire crew is lifeguard certified and will assist guests in and out of the water if needed. The “ride along” option is available for $102 per person for those who do not wish to go in the water. Not recommended to go on both whale watching and snorkel cruise on the same day.

Duration: Approx. 5 Hours (Morning/Afternoon)

Described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by Mark Twain, the Waimea Canyon is one site not to be missed. The large canyon is approximately 10 miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep. The journey to Waimea includes stops at the famous Hanapepe Lookout and Spouting Horn, all with expert narration by your driver guide.

• Visit to the Hanapepe Lookout
• Stop at the famous Waimea Canyon Lookout
• A chance to see the different colors of the canyon as the sun moves throughout the day
• Free time in Waimea Town

Note: There will be free time to walk around or purchase your own lunch in Waimea Town.

Duration: Approx. 5 Hours (Morning/early afternoon)

Price: $ 159 USD

This exciting excursion begins with a first-class guided vehicle tour of Haleakala National Park. Haleakala is a massive dormant volcano that provides breathtaking views at the summit which spans 7 miles by 2 miles. Nowhere else can you climb from sea level to 10,023 feet in less than an hour. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the unique geology, ecology, history and culture of Maui with a focus on Hawaiian values and preservation.

• A drive through some of the North Shore & Upcountry towns

Note: The temperature at the summit is typically 30 degrees lower than it is at sea level and the low temperatures can be in the 30s and 40s. Tour is not recommended for people with respiratory conditions because of the high altitude. There will be time for you to purchase lunch on this tour.

Duration: Approx. 9 Hours (Full Day)

Discover Oahu’s scenic natural beauty on this educational and fun all-day tour of the island’s most prized attractions. This tour features the Halona Blowhole, the dramatic Nuuanu Pali Lookout and Byodo-In Temple. You’ll finish the day driving past the North Shore Beaches and with stops in Haleiwa Town and at the Dole Plantation Country Store.

• Fully narrated motor coach tour
• Nuuanu Pali Lookout was the site of the Battle of Nuuanu where in 1795 King Kamehameha I won the struggle that finally united Oahu under his rule. Now, this historic site offers some of the best panoramic views of the Windward Coast of the island.
• Stop at Byodo-In Temple which is replica of an iconic temple in Japan. With the backdrop of the Koolau Mountain Range, this is a breathtaking site to see.
• Other stops are at Halona Blowhole, Tropical Farms (where you can sample flavored macadamia nuts and coffee), Haleiwa Town, and Dole Plantation Country Store where you can try their famous Dole Soft Serve.

Note:  This bus tour is from approximately 7:00 AM until 4:00 PM and therefore, it conflicts with the Polynesian Cultural Center optional tour. Please select only one of these optional excursions. There will be free time to purchase lunch at Haleiwa Town. This add-on is only available for 2024 tours.

Price: $135 USD

This full day tour covers all the beautiful scenic spots in Oahu including Diamond Head and the Kahala Gold Coast, the marine sanctuary of Hanauma Bay, Halona Blow Hole, the lush rainforest of Nuuanu Pali, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farm, Dole Plantation and the world-famous North Shore surfing beaches. Plus, you’ll have enough time (lunch on your own) to explore Haleiwa town.

Inclusions:

• Pre night at hotel
• Oahu circle island tour

Note : This add-on is only available for 2025 tours

Duration : Full day

Activity Level : Easy

Price : $349 USD per person (double occupancy). SIngle Supplement applies.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF SURINAME AND GUYANA

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ITINERARY SUMMARY

Day 1 Paramaribo, Suriname

Arrive in Paramaribo the capital of Suriname located on the banks of the Suriname River. The dutch colonial town is well known for its charming buildings and laid-back atmosphere. The city was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site for its combination of European and local influences.  You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Featured Accommodation

Eco resort inn.

Formerly a statuesque townhouse, the Eco Resort Inn has been lovingly renovated while maintaining the authenticity of its exquisite colonial architecture. It has been transformed to feature an extremely charming lobby and is one of Paramaribo’s most favoured hotels with numerous eco-friendly features. Located within a 5-minute walk of the historic centre of Paramaribo and the tantalizing city life, rooms offer either a breath-taking view of the Suriname River or a beautiful view of their lovely garden. The hotel is simply ideal for guests who want to visit Suriname to relax and unwind.

Day 2-3 Danpaati River Lodge, Suriname

Image provided by Wilderness Explorers

This morning you will embark on a diverse cultural and environmental experience as you depart from Paramaribo and travel approximately 190 km to arrive at the village of Atjoni. At the port of Atjoni you will join a motorized canoe, where skilled personnel will navigate their way up the Upper Suriname River, which is famous for its breathtaking rapids, to the Danpaati River Lodge. You will have a chance to relax for the afternoon before embarking on an exciting cruise along Suriname River, looking for wildlife along the river banks.

The following morning you will be treated to visiting one of the 12 local villages that are affiliated with Danpaati. You will have a guided tour through the village where you will be introduced to the unique way of life for the local population and the wonderful traditions brought from Africa by their ancestors. After the tour you will visit the Maroon museum Saramaka which is dedicated to the cultural heritage of the Saramaka Maroon population.

Discover the secrets and wildlife of the rainforest during a walk in the woods during the afternoon. Choose to relax afterwards with a massage or participate in some activities in the surrounding area such as fishing or canoeing. Spend the evening enjoying local traditional and cultural dance performances by the local population, whilst having the significance of each dance explained by your guide.

Danpaati River Lodge

The Danpaati River Lodge is an exceptionally remote and tranquil oasis in the heart of nature, welcoming adventurous visitors in search of an escape from modern stresses and distractions. The lodge features a welcoming and breezy lounge facing the river, a large pool surrounded by a hardwood yoga deck, and easy access to one of the few portions of the Surinam River where it is entirely safe to swim. Accommodations are spacious A-frame style cabins with carefully appointed amenities including fresh coffee service in the mornings, mosquito nets, and unbeatable views into the thick, surrounding nature.

Day 4 River Lodge to Paramaribo, Suriname

This morning take the time to say goodbye to the beautiful surroundings of the Danpaati River Lodge and their friendly, attentive staff before boarding the canoe to start your return journey back to Paramaribo.  Upon returning back to Paramaribo you will continue through to Leonsburg pier where you will board a lovely boat for a sunset dolphin tour. You will disembark the boat for sunset and local snacks from an old plantation village, on their traditional wooden deck on the waterfront of the Commewijne River. When you’re ready jump back on board, pour another drink and leisurely make your way back to Leonsberg. From here, transfer back to Paramaribo to return to your hotel.

Day 5, Paramaribo, Suriname

The following day it is time to enjoy the wonderful capital city of Surimane, Paramaribo. It has been placed on the UNESCO “World Heritage” list of historical monuments. You will receive a private guided tour, along the most prominent historic locations in downtown Paramaribo experiencing the unique cultural architecture. You will witness many important and traditional monuments and also enjoy many other interesting sites such as a mosque right next to a synagogue.

From town you will then proceed to the Commewijne district which is situated to the east of Paramaribo across the Suriname River. The tour takes you along the former colonial plantations, most of which are now abandoned.  You’ll make a stop at plantation Peperpot where the old coffee and cocoa factory, deputy-director’s house and the old office are located.  This former plantation is one of the oldest plantations in Surinamese history. This is one of the last plantations still in its former original state. On the plantation you can still see coffee and cocoa plants all the while keeping an eye out for the many birds which can be spotted.

From Peperpot you will then visit a former sugar plantation before continuing on to the confluence of the Commewijne and Suriname Rivers at Nieuw Amsterdam, a mesmerising sight to behold.  From there you will visit the outdoor museum Fort Nieuw Amsterdam.

Formerly a statuesque townhouse, the Eco Resort Inn has been lovingly renovated while maintaining the authenticity of its exquisite colonial architecture. It has been transformed to feature an extremely charming lobby, of one of Paramaribo’s most favoured hotels with numerous eco-friendly features. Located within a 5-minute walk of the historic centre of Paramaribo and the tantalizing city life, rooms offer either a breath-taking view of the Suriname River or a beautiful view of their lovely garden. The hotel is simply ideal for guests who want to visit Suriname to relax and unwind.

Day 6 Kourou, French Guiana

Today you will make your journey from Paramaribo to Kourou, French Guiana. The first leg of your travel takes you eastbound along Suriname’s coastal road, making your way to the ferry to cross the Maroni River, heading for French Guiana or “Guyane” as it is frequently (and confusingly) called locally. Arrival at St. Laurent du Maroni is relatively uncomplicated, and your French guide will be on hand to help you navigate the usual customs and immigration formalities.

French Guyana is a Department of France, so technically you have entered the EU upon arriving here. There is strong evidence of the connection to the “1st world” with every car seeming to be a late-model Mercedes, Volkswagen or Peugeot, the roads are in near perfect condition, espresso coffee is on tap nearly everywhere, and the Euro is the currency of choice. You will continue your journey to Kourou via the Center Spatiale Guyanaise (Guyana Space Centre) for a guided tour.

Day 7 Devil’s Island and Cayenne, French Guiana

After breakfast at the hotel you will set sail aboard a catamaran towards what is commonly referred to as “Devils Island”. It is really a triangle of three islands – Îles du Salut , or the Salvation Islands – 11 kilometres off the coast of Kourou. The islands played a central role in French history as far back as 1792 when they were first employed as a transit point, first for explorers, then slaves and later for political prisoners.

Your first stop is Île Saint-Joseph, the southernmost island and is easily circumnavigated on foot in less than 2 hours and is home to the most striking incarceration facilities that made up this notorious penal colony. The countless scenes of nature slowly but relentlessly reclaiming the land here are really quite remarkable… you’ll lose count of how many tree roots you see growing out of one cell door and curving around to enter an adjacent cell. Ironically, the actual Île du Diable (Devil’s Island) is inaccessible to visitors due to dangerous shoreline conditions. After a day exploring the islands, return to Kourou by Catamaran and enjoy a private transfer to Cayenne and explore the capital city at your leisure.

Day 8 Cayenne to Georgetown, Guyana

After breakfast in Cayenne it is time to start your journey to Georgetown. Begin by transferring to the border of St. Laurent de Maroni. On your way you will make a brief stop in St Joseph’s church, in Iracoubo. The entire inside of the church was hand painted by one of the convicts from a nearby penal colony. When you arrive in St. Laurent enjoy a mini city tour where you will pay a brief visit to the well-preserved Transportation Centre. The facility once served as the processing centre to the various penal colonies in French Guiana.

Afterwards, continue to customs and then cross by boat (Pirogue) to Albina and onwards to Paramaribo. Upon reaching Paramaribo you will then board your one hour flight to Georgetown, Guyana’s capital city.

Day 9 Georgetown, Guyana

Begin your first full day in Georgetown joined by your private guide and culinary master, Chef Delven Adams who will begin by showing you around Bourda Market, the largest of the four markets in Georgetown. Learn about all of the local types of meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables on offer.

During your visit to Georgetown there are a number of interesting sights that should not be missed: the most famous being St. George’s Cathedral.  The Cathedral is one of the world’s tallest free standing wooden buildings and was consecrated on 1892.

No trip to Georgetown would be complete without a visit to the Botanical Gardens.  The Gardens houses one of the most extensive collections of tropical flora in the Caribbean and are laid out with ponds, canals, kissing bridges and bandstand.  Over 100 species of Guyanese wildlife can be observed at the Zoo including a wide variety of birds.

In the afternoon take a private tour through the heart of the city to the Stabroek Market area. Here you will join the afternoon commuters using the river taxi’s which is used to cross the Demerara River.  As you slowly cruise along the bank of the Demerara River your guide will give you a brief history and facts of the famous buildings along the waterfront. Soon after the sky begins to get dark you return to the ferry dock and enjoy the city light from the river.

Day 10 Kaieteur Falls, Guyana

After a good night’s rest and a filling breakfast it will be time for an unforgettable day to Kaieteur Falls, the world’s tallest single-drop waterfall. Start the day with a scheduled flight over the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers and hundreds of kilometres of unbroken tropical rainforest to land at Kaieteur Falls. Situated in the heart of Guyana on the Potaro River, the water of Kaieteur, one of the worlds natural wonders, flows over a sandstone conglomerate tableland into a deep gorge – 5 times the height of Niagara Falls.

There are no other falls in the world with the magnitude of the sheer drop existing at Kaieteur. It supports a unique micro environment with Tank Bromeliads, the largest in the world, in which the tiny Golden frog spends its entire life and the rarely seen Guiana Cock- of-the-rock nesting close by.  The lucky visitor may also see the famous flights of the Kaieteur Swifts or Makonaima Birds which nest under the vast shelf of rock carved by the centuries of water, hidden behind the eternal curtain of falling water. Fly back to Georgetown and be transferred to your hotel- still beaming from the magnificent day.

Grand Coastal Hotel

Grand Coastal Hotel is located in Guyana on the East Coast of Demerara, just minutes from the capital city of Georgetown. This hotel is a boutique international hotel with local flavours and offers a safe and secure environment with excellent services and accommodation along with a restaurant, bar, gym and pool.

Day 11 Iwokrama River Lodge and Atta Rainforest Lodge, Guyana

Prepare for an early morning as you start your journey from Georgetown to Iwokrama River lodge. A private transfer will pick you up and take you to Georgetown’s airport to fly you to an airstrip where you will be picked up and taken to the lodge. Upon arriving at Iwokrama Lodge you will board a boat travelling to Turtle Mountain. Enjoy a well maintained trail that winds through the forest before an exhilarating climb up the mountain to its summit. This trail is also a great location for seeing Black Spider Monkey and Red Howler Monkey and if you are very lucky even a Jaguar.  This pristine forest offers huge buttress trees and the endemic Greenheart, a highly sought after hardwood.  If you think this hike may be too strenuous you can take an alternative boat trip to Stanley Lake to search for Giant River Otters and Black Caiman.

Return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax. After lunch you will be transferred by 4 x 4 along a trail that is one of the best places to see the elusive Jaguar. The journey concludes at the Atta Rainforest Lodge.

Atta Rainforest Lodge

Atta Rainforest Lodge is 500 metres from the base of the Canopy Walkway, offering comfortable private-room accommodation with ensuite bathrooms, delicious home-cooked meals, and traditional Amerindian hospitality.  The lodge is completely surrounded by tropical rainforest which offers a complete immersion in the rainforest. The main building is open sided with views across the gardens to the towering forest on all sides and houses the bar, dining area and kitchen.

Day 12-13 Surama Eco-Lodge, Guyana

After a night spent in the beautiful Atta Rainforest Lodge you have the chance to get up before dawn to the canopy of trees where you welcome the dawn chorus.  From this tree top vantage you get to opportunity to see Red Howler and Black Spider Monkeys. Enjoy wildlife and bird watching walks on the trails around the area.

Head from the Atta Rainforest Lodge through the rainforest to Corkwood in the Iwokrama Forest.  Here there is a comparatively short trail to hopefully see the amazingly brilliant Guianan Cock-of-the-rock. Then continue the journey to Surama.

The Amerindian community of Surama is located in the heart of Guyana.  The village is set in five square miles of savannah which is ringed by the forest covered Pakaraima Mountains. On arrival in Surama you will receive a warm welcome from local staff and settle into your accommodation at the Surama Eco-lodge.  Your private guide during your time at Surama will take you to local villages, through many trails and up Surama Mountain for breathtaking views.

Surama Eco Lodge

Surama Eco Lodge  is an isolated and idyllic location which offers an escape from the concrete jungle to a serene and peaceful existence with nature.  The guides have lived their entire lives in the rainforest, and have an incredible understanding of nature and how to utilise its resources. Set at the western edge of the main village, the eco lodge is perched atop a meadow facing a thick forest wall, creating a perfect opportunity to view birds, monkeys and even the occasional jaguar. The locals help you to feel welcome and like a guest in their home.

Day 14-15 Georgetown, Guyana

Enjoy dawn breaking across the rainforest. Take the chance to have a walk through the forest to look for wildlife and birds.  Travel from the Surama Eco Lodge to the Rupununi airstrip for your breath taking flight over hundreds of kilometres of rainforest back to Georgetown. Enjoy a final dinner of a traditional Guyanese 7 curry dinner. Ride in a private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

This is Mackinac. 

The cannon blasts, the rifles fire, the soldiers march and history comes alive. the oldest building in michigan and 13 other historical structures boast exhibits explaining everything from military training and battles to medical treatments to family life within the fort., more than just a military outpost, fort mackinac served as a home for soldiers and their families and eventually the headquarters for mackinac national park, where tourists to the island visited the great fortress on the bluff, much like they do today..

Live Programs and Tours

Click to enlarge.

Demonstrations and tours by costumed interpreters are scheduled throughout the day. Exciting programs taking place throughout the 2024 season include cannon and rifle firing demonstrations, the popular drill program, a tour exploring the army of the 1880s, a detailed look at Mackinac during its time as a national park, a “Medicine at Mackinac” program, a program exploring what a soldier would have been issued in the late 1880s, a Guard Mount Ceremony, Dress Parade, and more!

Click the links below to find out what will be happening during your visit.

May 3 – May 31, 2024 June 1 – September 1, 2024 September 2 – October 6, 2024 October 7 – October 26, 2024

All fourteen buildings in the fort are restored and open to the public. They are furnished with period settings highlighting the building’s particular function or a themed exhibit. Special exhibits include:

• Mackinac, An Island Famous in These Regions on the second floor of the Soldier’s’ Barracks presents the full history of Mackinac Island.  
• Military Medicine at Mackinac: 1780-1895 in the Post Hospital explores medical care at the fort and changing nineteenth-century medical practices.  
• Kids’ Quarters features hands-on displays and interactive games.
• Post Guardhouse explores 19th-century military justice with actual cases tried at the fort.
• North Blockhouse plunges visitors back in time to the War of 1812 to experience the confusion, fear, and drama of the British capture of Fort Mackinac on July 17, 1812.
• Office features period settings and gallery spaces interpreting the training and duties of Fort Mackinac’s officers.
• Reading Room is an immersive space that allows you to explore popular titles of the 1880s, read the latest newspaper or periodical, and get a better understanding of what it was like to be a soldier in the 1880s and why the U.S. Army felt it was a good idea to have reading rooms within its forts.

The Heritage of Mackinac is featured in the Soldiers’ Barracks, providing an overview history of Mackinac. It repeats every 20 minutes.

Watch the video below to learn more about Fort Mackinac!

Fort Mackinac Quick Links

About Fort Mackinac

Hours And Admission

Visitor Information

Fire the Cannon

Getting Here

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