Guyana

Guyana: general info for travelers

Sure, Guyana is a small country on the northern coast of South America, bordering Venezuela, Brazil, and Suriname. It is the third smallest country in South America but it has a diverse and unique culture with influences from Africa, India, Europe, and indigenous peoples. Its capital and largest city is Georgetown. The country is known for its rich biodiversity, including rainforests, unique wildlife, and numerous rivers. It is also a popular destination for ecotourism, particularly for bird watching and wildlife spotting. English is the official language of Guyana, and it uses the Guyanese dollar as its currency.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Guyana, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Guyana: places to visit

Here are some of the main places to visit in Guyana: 1. Kaieteur Falls - This is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world. Kaieteur Falls is located in the Kaieteur National Park and falls from a height of 741 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by a rainforest that is home to many species of birds and animals.
2. Iwokrama Forest - This protected rainforest covers more than one million acres and is a must-visit for nature lovers. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and giant river otters. Visitors can take nature walks, bird watching tours, and even spot wildlife from the comfort of a canopy walkway.
3. Georgetown - Guyana's capital city is a vibrant hub full of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a thriving nightlife scene. Some of the top attractions include St. George's Cathedral, the National Museum of Guyana, and the Promenade Gardens.
4. Shell Beach - Located on the country's northwest coast, Shell Beach is a protected area that stretches for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the world's most important nesting sites for sea turtles and a popular spot for beachcombing and birdwatching.
5. Rupununi Savannah - The Rupununi Savannah is a vast grassland region located in the southern part of Guyana. It is home to many indigenous communities with their unique culture and traditional way of life. Visitors can explore the savannah by car, plane, or on horseback.
These are just a few of the many exciting places to visit in Guyana. Each one offers something unique and special that will make your trip a memorable one.
There is more to see and do in Guyana: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Guyana: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Guyana, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
In Guyana, there are two primary seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from May to mid-August, and the dry season runs from mid-August to April. The best time to visit Guyana depends on the traveler's preferences. If you enjoy nature-based activities like bird watching, hiking, and exploring rainforests, the dry season (August to April) is the ideal time to visit. During this time, the weather is relatively dry and sunny, providing optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
On the other hand, if you're interested in fishing for piranhas, swimming in rivers, and observing aquatic life, the rainy season (May to mid-August) may be the best time to visit. During this time, there are more opportunities for freshwater activities, and the flora and fauna are more vibrant due to abundant rainfall. Regardless of the season, it's important to prepare for high humidity, hot temperatures, and occasional heavy rain showers in Guyana.

Guyana: activities and what to do

Guyana is an excellent destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Some popular activities and sports you can do on holiday in Guyana are: 1. Hiking and trekking in the rainforest to explore the diverse flora and fauna.
2. Wildlife watching in the forests and savannas where you may see tapirs, giant river otters, jaguars, and giant anteaters.
3. Bird watching to spot many rare birds like Harpy eagle, macaws, toucans, and many more.
4. Fishing in the rivers and streams for Arapaima and other native species.
5. Canoeing and kayaking to navigate through the rivers and witness the beauty of the landscapes.
6. River tours to appreciate the breathtaking views of the blackwater rivers.
7. Visiting indigenous villages to learn about the native cultures and traditions.
8. Adventure sports like zip-lining, rock-climbing, and mountain biking.
These are some of the most popular activities and sports you can do on holiday in Guyana.

Guyana: few words on history and culture

Guyana is a country located in South America. It has a unique history and culture that are influenced by African, Indian, European, and Indigenous peoples. The country was originally inhabited by Indigenous tribes, such as the Arawak, Carib, and Warao. In the late 15th century, European explorers, including Christopher Columbus, arrived in the area and claimed it for European colonization. The Dutch eventually established settlements in Guyana, and it became a Dutch colony until the British took control in the late 18th century.
Guyana gained independence from Britain in 1966 and became a republic in 1970. The country is now known for its diverse population and unique cultural traditions, including music, dance, and food.
One prominent aspect of Guyanese culture is its cuisine, which blends Caribbean, African, and Indian flavors. Popular dishes include curry chicken, roti, and pepper pot.
Overall, Guyana is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture that is worth exploring for anyone interested in South American culture.

Guyana: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Guyana is by air, as the country has only a limited road network with no rail system. The Cheddi Jagan International Airport, located in Timehri, is the main airport in Guyana and serves both international and domestic flights.
Within the country, the most common means of transport are buses and minibusses, which connect the major towns and cities. Taxis are also readily available, particularly in Georgetown, the capital. However, it is important to note that public transportation may not always be reliable and can be quite crowded.
For exploring more remote areas, hiring a car may be a good option, but it is important to take precautions for safety while driving in Guyana, such as staying on major roads and avoiding driving at night. Boat trips and domestic flights are also options for accessing more remote destinations within the country. To hire a car to visit Guyana, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Guyana: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Guyana with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Guyana: 1. Pepperpot: It's a hearty stew made with beef, pork, or other meats which are slow-cooked in a mixture of herbs and spices, including cinnamon and cassareep (a sauce made from boiled cassava juice). The stew has a very rich and complex flavor.
2. Roti: This is a type of flatbread that is typically served with curries and other hearty dishes. It's made with wheat flour and water, and it's cooked on a griddle or flat pan.
3. Coconut bread: This is a sweet bread made with grated coconut, flour, sugar, and milk. It's typically served as a dessert or snack.
4. Fish cakes: These are small cakes made from mashed fish, spices, and herbs, then fried until crispy. They're often served as a snack or appetizer.
5. Metemgee: This is a traditional stew made with fish, cassava, plantains, and coconut milk. It has a thick and creamy texture and is often served with rice.
6. Chow Mein: A Guyanese twist on the classic Chinese dish, chow mein is typically made with noodles, vegetables, and meat or shrimp. It has a spicy and flavorful sauce.
7. Bake and saltfish: This is a popular breakfast dish made with fried bread (bake) and salted codfish that is sautéed with peppers, onions, and spices. These are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique foods you can find in Guyana!

Guyana: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Guyana is generally considered to be a moderately expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities vary depending on the location and type of experience you are looking for. In general, the capital city of Georgetown is the most expensive area, while remote regions like the Rupununi savannah or the rainforest areas can be less expensive. It's important to note that transportation can also add to the cost of a trip in Guyana as flights and other modes of transport can be quite expensive due to the country's remote location. However, with some research and planning, it is possible to find affordable options for accommodations, food and activities.

Guyana: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodation in Guyana. You can start by searching for hotels on websites like Booking.com, Agoda.com, or Expedia.com. Additionally, there are also several local guesthouses and lodges that you can find through the Guyana Tourism Authority or by visiting their website at guyanatourism.com. Another option is to contact a local travel agent who can help you plan your trip and book accommodation for you. It's also worth considering Airbnbs or homestays as they can often provide a unique and authentic experience, allowing you to connect with locals and learn more about the country's culture.
You can check hotel prices in Guyana here:
Booking.com

Guyana: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Guyana Tourism Authority, around 250,000 tourists visit Guyana every year. However, there are no very crowded periods in Guyana, as it is still an emerging and relatively undiscovered tourism destination. While there are certain times of the year when more tourists tend to visit, such as during the peak birdwatching season from October to March, the country is generally quiet and uncrowded throughout the year.
Guyana can be safe for tourists as long as proper precautions are taken. It is recommended to avoid some areas of the country, especially those that are known for high rates of crime such as South Georgetown, Albouystown, East Ruimveldt, and Sophia. It is also not recommended to travel alone, especially at night, and it is important to keep valuables out of sight and to use a reliable transportation service. Additionally, tourists should be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft. It is always a good idea to research the current situation and safety recommendations before traveling to Guyana.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Guyana on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Guyana: events for tourists

There are many interesting events and activities in Guyana for tourists to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Mashramani - This is a national festival held in February to celebrate Guyana's independence. It is a colorful event with parades, music, dancing, and costume competitions.
2. Rupununi Rodeo - This is an annual event held in Lethem, Rupununi Region, in August. It features bull riding, barrel racing, and other rodeo-style events, as well as local food and crafts.
3. Guyana Carnival - This is a new event that has quickly become popular among tourists and locals alike. It is usually held in May or June and features colorful costumes, music, and dancing.
4. Guyana Jazz Festival - This is a popular event held in Georgetown in November. It attracts local and international jazz musicians and is a great opportunity to enjoy live music and local cuisine.
5. Kaieteur Falls - This is a natural attraction that is a must-see for any tourist visiting Guyana. It is one of the world's highest waterfalls and is located in the middle of the rainforest. These are just a few of the many events and attractions that Guyana has to offer. There are also many opportunities for ecotourism, hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

Guyana: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Guyana, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is my recommended two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Guyana: **Day 1-3: Georgetown** Start your trip in Georgetown, the capital city of Guyana. You can visit the iconic St. George's Cathedral, the tallest wooden building in the world, and learn about the history of Guyana at the museum. Other popular attractions include the markets, the Georgetown Botanical Gardens, and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology. **Day 4-6: Kaieteur Falls** Take a flight to Kaieteur Falls, the largest single-drop waterfall in the world. Spend a few days exploring the surrounding rainforest with an experienced guide, spotting wildlife, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. **Day 7-8: Lethem and the Rupununi Savanna** Travel to Lethem, a small town on the border with Brazil. From there, you can explore the Rupununi Savanna, a vast grassland filled with wildlife, including giant anteaters, capybaras, and jaguars. You can also visit indigenous communities and learn about their way of life.
**Day 9-12: Iwokrama Forest and Canopy Walkway** Head to the Iwokrama Forest, a protected area of pristine rainforest. Take a guided tour to learn about the flora and fauna, including the elusive jaguar and the endangered giant river otter. Don't miss the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, a suspension bridge that takes you through the tree canopy for breathtaking views.
**Day 13-14: Shell Beach and the Abary River** End your trip with some relaxation at Shell Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and watch sea turtles nesting. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour on the Abary River and observe the local wildlife, including manatees, caimans, and numerous bird species.
Remember that this is just a sample itinerary, and you can always adjust the plan to suit your interests or to fit in other attractions that you want to visit.

Guyana: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Guyana described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Anna Regina is a town located in the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region of Guyana. It is situated on the Atlantic Coast and is the administrative center of the Pomeroon-Supenaam region. The town h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anna Regina
- Annai is a small village located in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region of Guyana, South America. It is situated in the Rupununi savannah, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, such as mountains,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Annai
- Bartica Creek is a small town located in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Guyana. It is situated at the confluence of the Essequibo and Mazaruni rivers and is surrounded by dense tropical forest, making ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bartica Creek
- Bartica is a small town located in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni region of Guyana, South America. It is situated at the confluence of the Essequibo, Mazaruni, and Cuyuni rivers, which makes it an important tran... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bartica
- Charity is a small town located in the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region of Guyana, which is a country located on the northern coast of South America. It is situated on the banks of the Pomeroon River and is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Charity
- Corriverton is a town located on the eastern bank of the Corentyne River in the East Berbice-Corentyne region of Guyana. It is situated near the border with Suriname and is one of the busiest crossing... CONTINUE here for a trip to Corriverton
- Essequibo Coast is a coastal region located in the south of Guyana. It is known for its beautiful beaches and its diverse wildlife. The region is also home to several nature reserves, including the Iw... CONTINUE here for a trip to Essequibo Coast
- Georgetown is the capital city of Guyana, located on the Atlantic coast in South America. It was originally known as Stabroek during the Dutch colonial period, before being renamed in honor of King Ge... CONTINUE here for a trip to Georgetown
- Kabakaburi is a small village located in the Upper Pomeroon River region of Guyana, which is in South America. This village is predominantly home to the Arawak indigenous community. It is surrounded b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kabakaburi
- Kaburi is a small village located in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region of Guyana. It is situated near the Kaburi River and is surrounded by lush rainforest. The village is home to the indigenous Akawa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaburi
- Lethem is a small town located in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo region of Guyana, South America. It is situated on the border with Brazil and is the main entry point into Guyana from Brazil. Lethem... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lethem
- Linden is a town located in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region of Guyana. It is situated along the Demerara River and is known for its mining industry, particularly for bauxite, which is the town's mai... CONTINUE here for a trip to Linden
- Mabaruma is a town located in the Northwest District of Guyana, South America. It is situated at the confluence of the Aruka River and the Barima River, and is known for its diverse natural landscapes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mabaruma
- Mahaicony is a small coastal village located in the East Coast Demerara region of Guyana. It is situated along the Mahaicony River, which is popular for fishing and other water activities. The village... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mahaicony
- Morawhanna is a small village located in the North West region of Guyana, South America. It is situated near the border between Guyana and Venezuela, and it is only accessible by boat or plane. The po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Morawhanna
- New Amsterdam is a town located in the East Berbice-Corentyne Region of Guyana. It is the second-largest town in the region and is situated on the eastern bank of the Berbice River. The town was found... CONTINUE here for a trip to New Amsterdam
- Orinduik is a popular tourist destination located in the Potaro-Siparuni region of Guyana, South America. It is famous for its stunning waterfalls and scenic beauty. The Orinduik Falls, which is the m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Orinduik
- Parabara is a small village located in the North Rupununi region of Guyana. It is home to the Wapishana indigenous people and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including savannas, forests, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Parabara
- Paramakatoi is a village located in the Potaro-Siparuni region of Guyana, South America. It is situated on top of a mountain and is known for its beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The vill... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paramakatoi
- Parika is a small town in the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region of Guyana, South America. It is located on the east bank of the Essequibo River, about 50 kilometers south of Georgetown, the count... CONTINUE here for a trip to Parika
- Port Kaituma is a remote town located in the North West District of Guyana, South America. It is situated at the junction of the Kaituma and Kamwatta Rivers, about 25 miles upstream from the Atlantic ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Kaituma
- Suddie is a small town located in the Pomeroon-Supenaam region of Guyana, South America. It is the administrative center of the Essequibo Coast and Pomeroon-Supenaam region and is home to a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suddie
- Sure, Supenaam is a small town located in the Pomeroon-Supenaam region of Guyana. It is situated on the east bank of the Essequibo River, which is the largest river in Guyana and one of the longest in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Supenaam
- Waramuri is a village located in the Potaro-Siparuni region of Guyana. It is primarily a community of Indigenous Makushi people. Waramuri is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including lush for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Waramuri


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