TumucHumac

The TumucHumac Mountains, also spelled Tumuk Humak or Serra do Tumucumaque, form a low mountain range in the northern part of South America. They stretch across the border between French Guiana and Suriname to the north, and the Brazilian state of Pará to the south. These mountains are characterized by their relatively low elevation, with the highest peaks reaching around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet).

The range is part of the Guiana Shield, an ancient geological formation that underlies much of the Guiana Highlands. The TumucHumac Mountains are largely covered by dense tropical rainforest, which is part of the Amazon biome. This region is known for its rich biodiversity, harboring a wide array of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic.

The mountains are sparsely populated, with indigenous communities residing in some areas. Access to the interior is challenging due to the dense vegetation and lack of infrastructure. The range is crossed by several rivers, which are important for local ecosystems and sometimes serve as transportation routes.

The name "TumucHumac" is believed to have indigenous origins, though its precise meaning is debated among linguists. The area has gained some international recognition for its conservation importance, with parts of the range falling within protected areas, such as the Tumucumaque Mountains National Park in Brazil, established to preserve its unique natural heritage. The mountains play a role in regional hydrology, influencing water flow into the Amazon basin and towards the Atlantic coast.