Things To Do
in Georgetown
Georgetown, Guyana sits on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Demerara River, offering a distinctive blend of colonial architecture and tropical waterfront scenes. The city is lively and compact, with a relaxed pace that makes it easy to explore on foot. Its multicultural heritage is reflected in the food, languages, and music you’ll encounter on every corner.
Expect warm, humid days, friendly faces, and a surprising variety of natural and cultural attractions within a short ride of the city center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Georgetown, where lush greenery meets colonial architecture. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens, admiring the variety of tropical plants and birds. Enjoy a refreshing local snack at one of the nearby vendors.
Visit the National Museum of Guyana to dive into the rich history and culture of the country. Explore the exhibits that showcase native art, archaeological finds, and colonial history. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant that features traditional Guyanese cuisine.
Experience the nightlife of Georgetown by exploring the vibrant Stabroek Market. Sample street food favorites while soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter. End your night with a cocktail at a popular local bar.
Begin your day with a visit to St. George's Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden churches in the world. Marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate interior details. Take some time for reflection in the serene surroundings.
Head over to the Guyana National Zoo to encounter local wildlife, including jaguars and capybaras. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts being implemented for these species. Have lunch at a nearby café and enjoy the local ambiance.
Stroll along the seawall promenade, soaking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean at sunset. Find a cozy spot to enjoy street food, like fish and fry, while listening to the sounds of the sea. Cap off the night with a leisurely walk through the lit streets of Georgetown.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within Georgetown | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee and breakfast for two at a cafe | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- English is widely spoken and locals are friendly
- Rich multicultural cuisine and vibrant street food
- Compact city with easy access to nature and waterfront views
- Strong historical architecture and a distinctive Caribbean-Guyanese vibe
- Hot, humid climate can be uncomfortable
- Traffic congestion and uneven sidewalks in parts of the city
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas may feel crowded during market days
- "Wha gwan?" - What's going on? / How are you?
- "Me deh yah" - I am here / I'm fine.
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
- "Plee" - Please
- "Good morning" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Georgetown
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red-brick market facade with constant activity—great for morning or golden-hour photography.
Gothic revival architecture with tall spires; photograph from nearby streets or the Parliament grounds.
Colorful colonial buildings along the Demerara River; ideal for sunset and river reflections.
Historic cricket venue with distinctive stands; dynamic on match days.
Lush greens, ponds and tropical plants—perfect for nature and macro shots.
Food in Georgetown
Georgetown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, cassareep-based stew (often beef or pork) served with rice or roti, a Guyanese staple with a sweet-savoury depth.
Must-Try!
A one-pot rice dish cooked with meats, beans, and vegetables; deeply flavorful and filling.
Indo-Guyanese flatbread paired with curries and dal, a popular takeaway and dine-in option.
A spiced, caramelized rice dish cooked with meat and coconut for a hearty, comforting meal.
Fresh local seafood prepared with peppers and spices, often with rice or provisions on the side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering roti, doubles, fried snacks, fresh fruit juices, and other street bites.
Grilled seafood, fish curry, patties, and spicy sauces from mobile vendors along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and a handshake are common; English is the primary language, with Creole widely understood.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets; dress modestly when visiting religious sites and respect local norms.
Be mindful of local customs around tobacco and alcohol; avoid public intoxication in non-designated areas.
Safety
Tipping in Georgetown
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual eateries tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% is common when service is good, 10-15% in nicer establishments if service charge isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted; some places take USD or Guyanese dollars. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically drier with fewer rain days; hot and humid, so stay hydrated and use sun protection; great for outdoor sightseeing.
Frequent heavy showers and higher humidity; plan indoor activities or early morning outdoor shoots; ensure you have a light rain jacket.
Transitional months with mixed rain and sunshine; fewer crowds and comfortable conditions for city and nature visits.
Georgetown at Night
Hiking in Georgetown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
World-renowned birding trail starting near Georgetown and extending into the forest; accessible for easy to moderate hikes and birdwatching.
Riverside forest trails suitable for day hikes and nature walks near the city.
Airports
How to reach Georgetown by plane.
Main international gateway to Guyana, located near Timehri about 40 km from Georgetown; connects to the Caribbean, North America, and parts of South America.
Smaller domestic airport near Georgetown for regional travel and connections to interior regions; typically used for quick hops within Guyana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large community with strong cultural influence in food, music, and festivals.
Another major group contributing to the city’s cultural fabric, cuisine, and traditions.
A diverse mix including Amerindian heritage; English is widely spoken, with Creole commonly heard in daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a national passion with strong community clubs and matches at Bourda and other venues.
Popular sport with local leagues and casual games throughout the city.
Growing presence in community centers and schools; street courts exist in several neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Georgetown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer dhal puri, alu (potato) roti, bean curries, and fresh vegetable dishes; ask for oil preferences and confirm no meat or lard.