GRACED by the passing Essequibo River away from the hassle of urban life, the village of Wineperu in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) is a place of peace and tranquillity.

This week, my adventures took me to this place of peace and I’m even more happy to bring our readers along for the journey.

Wineperu is located some 52 miles or so south-west of Georgetown, and is easily accessible by boat from the Parika Stelling. We took another route, however, which lead us through an uncommon track from Rockstone, a small town just outside of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

We moved down the reddish track for what seemed like two hours until we arrived at a small village called ‘Anairka’—our stop here was brief.

Along our way, there was nothing but towering trees leading the way forward. My colleagues said they spotted an anaconda. I can’t confirm this, and that’s a good thing. I was much too engrossed in the sway of the trees that sheltered us from the blazing mid-day sun.

At the end of the track, we found ourselves at the Essequibo River. We quickly boarded a ‘pontoon’ to the next village destination located across Guyana’s biggest river.

The pontoon ride between the river’s banks was short. We arrived at ‘Sherima’ along the Essequibo River. After yet another journey by car which was shorter this time, we landed at our final destination of the day, Wineperu.

The residents greeted us warmly and were eager to share stories. I met one of the village elders, Erllanaibie, 77, who shared wisdom of life in the small riverine village.

We heard there was a time when the village had much more life and colour, however, as time passed, much of its vibrant essence faded.

For the residents, Wineperu is still a beautiful place. I agree and I’m left wondering how much more grand it was before.

Reminiscing, one resident said that almost every month there was an exciting activity to look forward to. Nonetheless, there’s still a joy felt in Wineperu.

The Wineperu Creek was our final stop of the day. Of course, before bidding farewell, I dipped my feet in the soothing mineral-rich waters.