– Berbice tour operator

TO Dillon and Stephanie Ross, it’s not just about being able to provide commercial tours in the Ancient County of Berbice. Both growing up with a love for nature and exploration, they make it a point to promote conservation and good stewardship of their environment, especially while spending time in the gorgeous Canje River that they like to frequent either for work or recreation.

Dillon is the only licensed tour operator in Berbice, and together with his wife Stephanie, they created Blackwater Adventures, an eco-tour company that sees the likes of Berbice/Canje sunset river tours, fishing trips; tours of the captivating ruins of Fort Nassau, Caiman experience tours, bush cooks, bird watching, among others.

Stephanie and Dillon originally came to Guyana as volunteers about a decade ago, but having come to acquire a deep love for the country – especially with their backgrounds of travelling and exploring – they decided that here is where they want to remain.

“We are still busy in volunteer service around Guyana; however, this is how we pay the bills. Even though we are not born Guyanese, we are naturalised citizens and hope to help foreign visitors, as well as local Guyanese, explore the beauty of Guyana,” Stephanie shared.

Before coming to Guyana, Dillon worked as an emergency responder (Ski Patroller), emergency medical technician, and paramedic before becoming a wilderness guide. He is also a licensed fisherman, hunter, and boat captain.

Describing the Canje River as one of Guyana’s hidden gems, Dillon told Pepperpot Magazine a few days ago that it is full of diverse wildlife and ecosystems. “Many people don’t know the beauty that exists right in their own backyard, especially in Berbice,” he offered.

Dillon has seen a variety of fish to date, ranging from the big Tarpon (Cuffum) to the smaller Lukanani and Piranha. He’s also spotted river otters, anteaters, sloths, monkeys (howler, capuchin, sakiwinki), and a wide variety of birds and other wildlife.

He didn’t neglect to mention the wonderful people who also inhabit communities along the Canje River. “The creek is home to many hardworking people as well with a wonderful agricultural community, as well as kind-hearted people. It’s truly a special place.”

Safety Above All Else
Dillon and Stephanie pride themselves in operating a family-owned business that ensures that quality service is delivered at all times. “In the world of tourism, many companies operate as a middle man between you and other entities who provide tour services. But when you book with Blackwater Adventures, you get us.

“We pride ourselves on outstanding customer service and promise to put your needs and safety above all else on the trips. We know each trip and group is unique, so we specialise in customising trips to suit your goals and preferences. Don’t hesitate to ask us to adjust our itinerary as we will do all we can to accommodate you,” Stephanie noted in one of her social media posts.

She added: “We are a family-owned eco-tourism operation based in beautiful Berbice, Guyana. Our mission is to provide quality, affordable adventures to local Guyanese as well as to foreign visitors.

“We are licensed boat captains and fishing/hunting guides, and this means that we don’t hire other people to operate our trips. Because of this, we don’t need large groups to go. Are you ready to let the beautiful black water of Guyana move you?”