Things To Do
in Guyana
Guyana, located on the northern coast of South America, is a rich tapestry of dense rainforests, sprawling rivers, and diverse wildlife, sharing borders with Venezuela, Brazil, and Suriname. It's the only English-speaking country in South America, reflecting a unique blend of cultures, including indigenous, African, Indian, and European influences, particularly in its cuisine, festivals, and languages.
Guyana is renowned for its commitment to eco-tourism and conservation efforts, offering visitors a chance to explore untouched natural beauty, from the majestic Kaieteur Falls, one of the world's highest single-drop waterfalls, to the vast, pristine expanses of the Amazon rainforest.
- "Wha yuh say?" - What do you say?
- "A wah deh?" - What's going on?
- "Meh nah know" - I don't know
- "Come mek we go" - Come, let’s go
- "All yuh alright?" - Are you all right?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Georgetown and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll around the city to get acquainted with the local culture.
Visit the National Museum of Guyana to learn about the country's history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Guyanese dishes.
Explore the bustling streets of Georgetown and visit St. George's Cathedral. Dine at a riverside restaurant while watching the sunset.
Take an early flight to Kaieteur National Park to witness the magnificent Kaieteur Falls. Enjoy the scenic views and take photos of the breathtaking waterfall.
Hike the surrounding trails to spot unique wildlife and lush vegetation. Enjoy a packed lunch while absorbing the beauty of the park.
Return to Georgetown and relax after a day of adventure. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and share stories of your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant natural resources, including oil and minerals.
- Low population density, providing space for development and investment.
- Rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, attracting eco-tourism.
- Growing economy, particularly due to the recent oil discoveries.
- Cultural diversity and rich heritage that contributes to a vibrant community.
- Infrastructure challenges, including underdeveloped roads and services.
- High levels of poverty and inequality in certain areas.
- Political instability and governance issues that could affect investment.
- Environmental concerns related to resource extraction and deforestation.
- Limited access to quality education and healthcare in some regions.
Best Activities in Guyana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest while taking in stunning vistas and encountering unique wildlife.
Observe a wide variety of bird species, including macaws, parrots, and toucans, in the lush surroundings of the Rewa eco-lodge.
Paddle along the tranquil waters of the Rupununi River, spotting wildlife and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the region.
Engage in a popular local pastime while also taking in the scenic beauty of the expansive Essequibo River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guyana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guyana
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the world, offering stunning views and photographic opportunities.
A suspended bridge through the rainforest canopy, providing panoramic views and the chance to capture unique wildlife photographs.
A massive flat-topped mountain with breathtaking vistas, particularly popular among hikers and nature photographers.
Food in Guyana
Guyana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A stew made with beef, cinnamon, casareep (a sauce made from cassava), and hot peppers. Usually eaten during the Christmas season and can be found at local restaurants and food stalls.
Must-Try!
A traditional flatbread served with curried vegetables, chicken, or goat. These can be found at roti shops across the country, with the most famous being D'Urban Park in Georgetown.
A hearty dish made with ground provision (root vegetables) and a variety of meats, typically found at local eateries in Georgetown and along the coast.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guyana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest and largest markets in Georgetown, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, street food, and local snacks like plantain chips and freshly squeezed juices.
A bustling market where you can find an array of street food such as fried bora (a type of bean), pholourie (spiced chickpea fritters), and deliciously sweet mangoes in season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guyana, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and showing deference in conversation and interactions.
Greetings are an important part of Guyanese culture, and it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time or in a formal setting.
Hospitality is highly valued in Guyanese culture, and it is customary to offer guests food and drink as a sign of welcoming and generosity.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guyana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guyana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Guyana, and it is not expected in most establishments. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10-15% service charge may be included in the bill. It is discretionary to add an extra tip on top of this charge.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Guyana, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most urban establishments, but it's always wise to carry cash, especially in smaller towns. ATMs are readily available in major cities.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guyana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal for wildlife spotting and inland exploration, with lower rainfall and clearer skies.
Higher rainfall and lush vegetation, great for birdwatching and river-based activities.
Guyana at Night
Hiking in Guyana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to the stunning Kaieteur Falls, this park offers various hiking trails through lush rainforest, with opportunities to see unique wildlife and beautiful scenery.
A vast expanse of untouched rainforest, Iwokrama features trails that allow visitors to explore its rich biodiversity, including rare species of plants and animals.
This iconic tabletop mountain is part of the Pakaraima mountains and offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.
A scenic place for hiking and exploring, Canje Creek offers trails that lead to beautiful waterways, the opportunity to view fauna and flora, and experience local culture.
While primarily known for its beaches, Shell Beach has trails running along the shore and through nearby coastal ecosystems, perfect for nature walks and exploring.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guyana through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Guyana by plane.
The main international airport serving Georgetown, the capital of Guyana.
Located in Recife, Brazil, it serves as an international gateway to northeastern Brazil.
Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it is one of the largest and busiest airports in Brazil.
Situated in Caracas, Venezuela, it serves as a major international hub in the region.
Located in Trujillo, Peru, it's a significant regional airport for northern Peru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Indigenous peoples of Guyana are groups that include the Arawak, Carib, and Warrau, who have lived in the region for thousands of years.
Descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Guyana during the transatlantic slave trade, they make up a significant portion of the population.
Descendants of indentured laborers from India who migrated to Guyana in the 19th and early 20th centuries, forming a substantial ethnic group.
Individuals with mixed heritage, including combinations of Indigenous, African, East Indian, and European backgrounds.
Descendants of European colonizers and settlers, primarily of British, Dutch, and Portuguese descent.
A smaller group in Guyana, primarily descended from Chinese immigrants who came to the country in the 19th century.
Includes smaller communities such as Lebanese, Syrian, and other immigrant populations who have settled in Guyana.
The Soul of Guyana
Discover the essence of Guyana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Guyana, with a strong following and numerous local clubs. The country has produced several notable cricketers who have represented the West Indies.
Football is widely played and enjoyed in Guyana, with both local leagues and national competitions. The national team participates in regional tournaments.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Guyana, particularly among the youth, with several local leagues and competitions held throughout the year.
Track and field events are a significant part of Guyana's sports culture, with athletes participating in regional competitions and the Olympics.
Rugby is gaining traction in Guyana, with efforts to develop the sport at both grassroots and competitive levels, including participation in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in Indian restaurants and roti shops which offer tasty vegetable and lentil curries.
While less common, many Indian and international restaurants in Georgetown offer vegan dishes like roti with curried chickpeas and vegetable stir-fries.
It can be a bit challenging to find dedicated gluten-free establishments, but some restaurants and cafes in Georgetown offer gluten-free choices, especially those with international cuisine.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guyana.