King George VI Falls

King George VI Falls, also known as Salto Oshi or Oshi Falls, is located on the Oshi River in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Guyana.

King George VI Falls
Salto Oshi
LocationCuyuni-Mazaruni region
Coordinates5°41′18″N 61°06′44″W
Total height500–700 feet (150–210 m)[1]
WatercourseOshi River

This waterfall is rarely visited. Its height has not been reliably determined, but is believed to be between about 500 and 700 feet.[1] Though it is not as tall as it has long been thought to be, it is notable for its combination of height and great volume of water, along with its being a sheer plunge.

The falls were reportedly discovered in 1938 by American entomologist and physician Paul A. Zahl.[1] Height of this waterfall has often been reported to be 1,600 feet, and that figure has been published many times over several decades, but it is greatly exaggerated.[1] The error originated from imprecise measurements of Paul A. Zahl who estimated the height of falls by throwing large rocks and counting seconds until the stones fell down.

The waterfalls are near the indigenous village of Paruima. A permit from the Office of Indigenous Affairs is required to visit the falls.[2]

References
  1. "Oshi, Salto". World Waterfall Database. Retrieved 30 August 2020.
  2. "Waterfalls in Guyana". USA Today. Retrieved 30 August 2020.
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