Things To Do
in Guyana

A handshake and a warm 'Good morning/afternoon' in English is customary; be respectful and use titles when appropriate. Guyanese are generally friendly and appreciate polite conversation.

Show deference to elders and be mindful during religious and cultural events—ask permission before photographing ceremonies or people in villages.

Dress modestly when visiting Amerindian communities, churches or formal events; swimwear should be confined to beaches and lodges.

If invited into someone's home, a small gift or offering is appreciated; remove shoes if hosts indicate and accept food graciously.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; in restaurants a 10% service charge may appear on the bill—if not, leaving 10% for good service is common. Tip guides, drivers and lodge staff (small amounts per person per day) for exceptional service. Carry small denominations of Guyanese dollars for tips and market purchases.

Guyana uses the Guyanese dollar (GYD), and major credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels, some restaurants and businesses in Georgetown. Cash is essential in smaller towns, markets and remote areas—ATMs are mainly in larger towns and Georgetown. U.S. dollars are sometimes accepted in tourism settings but exchange at banks or authorized dealers for better rates.

Better for overland travel, wildlife viewing in savannahs and access to trails; fewer mosquitoes and reduced river levels can limit some boat routes but improve hiking conditions.

Heavy rains can flood roads, make some trails slippery and disrupt domestic flights; however, river-based access improves and waterfalls are at full volume—pack waterproof gear and expect some travel delays.

Warm to hot temperatures and humidity increase; ideal for coastal and marine trips early in the day, but bring sun protection and hydrate regularly.

Cultural festivals bring parades, music and food—great for experiencing local culture but book accommodation early and expect crowds in Georgetown.

Descendants of Indian indentured laborers who make up a significant portion of the population; influential in agriculture, commerce and cultural life with festivals like Diwali widely celebrated.

Descendants of African enslaved people who have shaped music, religion and urban culture—many live in coastal and urban areas with vibrant community traditions.

Diverse Indigenous groups (Arawak, Carib, Wapishana, Macushi and others) primarily in interior regions, each with distinct languages, crafts and cultural practices.

Mixed-heritage Guyanese and smaller communities of Portuguese, Chinese and recent expatriates contribute to a multicultural social fabric.

Cricket is the most popular sport—Guyana is part of the West Indies cricket team and domestic matches draw passionate crowds and strong local support.

Widely played and followed across communities, with local leagues and informal street matches common among youth.

Boxing and track events have produced notable athletes; schools and clubs support these sports in many towns.

Recreational fishing is popular in riverine communities, with opportunities for trophy catches like arapaima and peacock bass—often organized by lodges.

Vegetarian options are available but limited compared to larger cities: rotis, dhal (lentil) curry, vegetable cook-ups and fruit. Communicate dietary needs clearly—English is official—and check for fish/fish sauce in broths and sauces. Larger restaurants and hotels in Georgetown are more likely to accommodate vegetarian requests.

Vegan options require careful requests; coconut-based dishes and vegetable stews can work, but ask about butter, egg, condensed milk and fish products. Bring snacks if traveling to remote interior lodges.

Rice-based dishes are common, but many baked goods and breads contain wheat. Ask vendors about ingredients and prefer naturally gluten-free staples like rice, cassava and plantains.

Choose busy stalls and cooked foods; avoid raw salads from street vendors if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to bottled water unless your accommodation provides purified water.