Things To Do
in New Amsterdam
New Amsterdam is a town located on the eastern bank of the Berbice River in Guyana. It is the largest town in the Berbice region and serves as an important commercial and administrative center. The town's economy is largely driven by agriculture, with sugar production being a major industry.
New Amsterdam is also known for its historic architecture, including the New Amsterdam Public Hospital and the New Amsterdam Town Hall.
- "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): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the New Amsterdam Market, where you can find local produce and artisan goods. Enjoy a breakfast of local delicacies at a nearby café.
Head to the scenic Fort Nassau for panoramic views of the Berbice River. Explore the historical significance of the fort and capture beautiful photographs.
Relax at the waterfront promenade while enjoying the sunset. Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Guyanese dishes.
Visit the Baganara Island for a serene morning surrounded by nature. Enjoy the fresh air and the sights of various wildlife endemic to the region.
Engage in leisure activities like kayaking or bird-watching on the island. Take a picnic lunch to enjoy on the sandy beaches.
Head back to New Amsterdam and unwind at your accommodation. Consider a night stroll along the riverbanks to appreciate the tranquility.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Strategic location near the Atlantic Ocean
- Access to natural resources, particularly in agriculture and fishing
- Growing eco-tourism opportunities
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Limited infrastructure and public services
- Issues with crime and safety
- Economic challenges and unemployment rates
- Vulnerability to flooding and climate change effects
- Limited access to healthcare and education facilities
Best Activities in New Amsterdam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush greenery and diverse plant species at the Botanical Gardens, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
Enjoy a peaceful walk in the Promenade Gardens, which features beautiful landscaping, pathways, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Experience the scenic beauty of the Demerara River with a guided boat tour, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the views of the city.
Visit the National Park for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the natural habitat of various flora and fauna.
Take a day trip to the magnificent Kaieteur Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, and witness its breathtaking beauty.
Participate in cultural activities and learn about the local heritage at the Cultural Village, which often hosts events and exhibits.
Enjoy a day of fishing at the Mahaica River, where you can relax and try your luck at catching local fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Amsterdam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Amsterdam
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fort with panoramic views of the Essequibo River and surrounding area
Scenic spot with views of the river and historic buildings, great for photography
Offers beautiful views of the Canje River and surrounding countryside
Food in New Amsterdam
New Amsterdam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with meat, cassareep (a special sauce made from cassava), and a blend of local spices. It's traditionally enjoyed during special occasions and holiday celebrations.
Must-Try!
A comforting one-pot dish featuring a combination of dumplings, cassava, plantains, yams, and a variety of meats cooked in coconut milk. It's a true representation of Guyanese culinary fusion.
A popular breakfast dish consisting of fried bread (bake) served with a flavorful salted cod mixture. It's a beloved morning staple in Guyana.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Amsterdam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant New Amsterdam Market, where you can savor an assortment of local street foods such as delicious pholourie (deep-fried split pea dough), fried plantains, and various curries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In New Amsterdam, it is common to greet people with a friendly 'good morning', 'good afternoon', or 'good evening' depending on the time of day. This simple gesture shows respect and acknowledgment of others.
Dress modestly and appropriately, particularly in religious and formal settings. While casual attire is acceptable in daily life, many locals prefer neat and well-fitting clothing during social interactions.
If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift such as fruit, drinks, or pastries as a token of appreciation. Additionally, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Amsterdam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Amsterdam
Ensure a smooth experience
In New Amsterdam, Guyana, tipping practices are generally informal and often depend on the service provided. It is common to tip service workers such as waitstaff, taxi drivers, and hairdressers, typically around 10-15% of the total bill, especially if the service is good. Tipping may also be influenced by local customs and the individual's discretion.
Payment practices in New Amsterdam primarily involve cash transactions, as many local businesses may not accept credit or debit cards. However, mobile payment systems and banking apps are becoming more popular among some vendors and establishments. It's advisable for visitors to carry local currency (Guyanaese Dollar) for everyday purchases, including at markets and smaller shops.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Amsterdam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit New Amsterdam, Guyana is during the dry season when you can expect sunny weather, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and bird watching.
During the rainy season, visitors can expect frequent rain showers, higher humidity, and lush, green landscapes. It's a great time for experiencing the country's abundant wildlife and exploring waterways, but be prepared for wet conditions and potential travel disruptions.
New Amsterdam at Night
Hiking in New Amsterdam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail located near the Kanuku Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and diverse wildlife.
Explore the unique biodiversity of the Iwokrama Rainforest with guided hikes that take you through the heart of the forest and its lush ecosystems.
Though a bit of a drive from New Amsterdam, Roraima offers an iconic trekking experience with its flat-top mountain and breathtaking scenery.
While primarily known for its beaches, the area offers trails through the nearby mangroves and coastal forest, suitable for nature walks.
A further adventure, this mountain range features rugged terrain and various trails that lead to stunning vistas and unique wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into New Amsterdam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach New Amsterdam by plane.
Located approximately 40 miles from New Amsterdam, this is the largest international airport in Guyana, serving numerous international flights.
Located about 40 miles from New Amsterdam, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also handles some international flights.
While primarily a smaller regional airport, it is located around 50 miles from New Amsterdam and offers a few international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The original inhabitants of the region, with various ethnic groups, including the Arawak and Carib peoples.
Individuals with ancestral ties to Africa, including descendants of enslaved people brought to work on sugar plantations.
Individuals descended from indentured laborers brought from India during the 19th century.
People of mixed heritage, combining elements of the various ethnic groups in the region.
Individuals of Chinese origin, who have settled in Guyana over the decades.
A smaller group consisting of individuals with ancestry from Portugal, primarily from past migrations.
Includes various small communities from around the world contributing to the multicultural landscape of New Amsterdam.
The Soul of New Amsterdam
Discover the essence of New Amsterdam through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in New Amsterdam, attracting large crowds and passionate fans. Both local and international matches often take place, fostering a strong community around the sport.
Football is extremely popular in New Amsterdam, with many local teams and clubs. The sport is played in schools and communities, and matches often draw significant attendance.
Basketball has gained popularity in New Amsterdam, with local courts providing venues for both casual play and organized competitions among various teams.
Track and field events are popular in schools and during local festivals, showcasing talented athletes in sprinting, long-distance running, and field events.
Table tennis is a growing sport in New Amsterdam, with clubs and organizations encouraging participation across different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Amsterdam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prominent in Guyanese cuisine, many restaurants and eateries in New Amsterdam offer delectable vegetarian and vegan options, including flavorful curries, vegetable-stuffed rotis, and plantain-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can delight in gluten-free rotis, fresh seafood dishes, and a variety of rice-based delicacies available across New Amsterdam's dining establishments.