Things To Do
in Fort Wellington
Fort Wellington is a historic coastal fortification in Guyana's Berbice region, overlooking the Berbice River. The fort preserves colonial-era military ruins and offers a window into 18th-century Caribbean history. The surrounding townscape blends river life, markets, and mangrove landscapes, making it a peaceful base for travelers seeking culture and nature.
The area is less touristed than Georgetown, providing a slower pace and genuine local hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a visit to the local market, where you can interact with vendors and sample fresh fruits, spices, and traditional snacks. Afterward, head to a nearby village to participate in a cooking class, learning to prepare authentic Guyanese meals. Enjoy your culinary creations for lunch, gaining insight into local traditions.
In the afternoon, visit the historical landmarks around the area, including old plantations and sugar mills, to understand the agricultural heritage of the region. Engage with a local historian or guide who can share fascinating stories of the past. As the sun sets, take a moment for photography, capturing the stunning landscapes.
For dinner, find a cozy restaurant that serves local delicacies and seafood, immersing yourself in the local dining culture. Join a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and music, offering an enriching experience of Guyanese heritage. Wind down at a local bar, trying out the famous El Dorado rum while mingling with locals.
Kickstart your day with an excursion to the nearby Kanashen Indigenous District for a guided nature hike. Observe diverse wildlife and listen to your guide share insights about the flora and fauna. Enjoy a packed breakfast in the heart of nature, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife.
After lunch, embark on a boat tour along the river, exploring the waterways and appreciating the tranquility of the lush surroundings. Try fishing or bird watching, taking time to appreciate the unique biodiversity. Stop at a hidden waterfall for a refreshing swim before heading back.
Return to Fort Wellington in the evening, where you can unwind with a casual meal at your accommodation or a nearby guest house. Spend the night sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers, creating lasting memories. If available, enjoy an outdoor movie night under the stars, enveloped by nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛏️One-night mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚗Local transport (short taxi or bus ride) | $2-8 |
| 💻Internet/Phone data (monthly or SIM top-up) | $5-20 |
| 🥤Drink/soft beverage | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- English is widely spoken and friendly locals
- Rich history and river scenery
- Good value for money and warm hospitality
- Relaxed, small-town atmosphere with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer high-end dining and hotel options
- Healthcare facilities are concentrated in larger towns; plan for referrals to Georgetown
- Humidity and heat can be intense, especially for first-timers
- "Wah gwan?" - What's going on?
- "Plis" - Please
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
- "Weh it cost?" - How much does this cost?
- "Yuh poy English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Fort Wellington
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic stone walls with river views; ideal for sunrise silhouettes and atmospheric photos of colonial military architecture.
Wide river vistas framed by mangroves and boats; great for golden-hour photography.
Colorful stalls and locals going about daily life, offering candid photography opportunities.
Food in Fort Wellington
Fort Wellington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful one-pot rice dish made with meat (often chicken), pigeon peas, coconut milk, and caramelized sugar for depth.
Must-Try!
Sada roti or plain roti served with vegetable or meat curries, a staple coastwide.
A comforting mixed-rice one-pot dish with meat, pigeon peas, and greens.
A slow-cooked cassareep-based stew, typically beef or oxtail, rich and peppery.
Freshly caught fish prepared with local spices and coconut milk, often served with rice or fried plantains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling riverside market offering fresh produce, seafood, spices, and street snacks.
Regional market with local crafts, fruit and vegetables, and ready-to-eat meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; address people politely and use surnames when possible.
English is the official language, but many locals speak Guyanese Creole in daily conversations; use simple phrases and ask for help when needed.
Light, breathable clothing is appropriate; cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites and formal spaces.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and respect.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Wellington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at casual eateries if service is good, 10-15% at better restaurants if a service charge is not included.
Cash (GYD and USD) is widely used; some vendors take cards in larger towns; carry smaller denominations for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days are common with sea breezes near the coast; excellent for outdoor activities and river excursions, but stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Expect frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; trails may be muddy; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Fort Wellington at Night
Hiking in Fort Wellington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside and mangrove edge trails ideal for birdwatching and easy hikes.
Short, accessible forest and coastal paths offering wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Fort Wellington by plane.
Main international gateway to Guyana; connects to the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. From CJIA you can take domestic flights to Ogle or regional airstrips.
Domestic airport near Georgetown serving regional flights to coastal towns and interior river ports.
Regional domestic airport serving flights to nearby Berbice towns and some river routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant community with deep roots in coastal Guyana and a rich cultural presence.
A large portion of the population with strong cultural and culinary influence across the region.
People of mixed heritage and various Indigenous communities contribute to the region's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Guyana, with local matches and informal games common near coastal towns.
Widely played at schools and community grounds; local leagues and casual games are common.
Popular in community centers and schools; informal street games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Wellington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries, including lentil curries, roasted vegetables, plantains, and various flatbreads. Ask for no meat or fish and confirm that ingredients like fish stock are not used.