Guyana Travel Guide (South America)

Introduction to Guyana

Guyana, located on the northern coast of South America, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With a diverse population and a unique blend of European, African, and Indigenous cultures, it’s a vibrant country full of surprises. Known for its pristine rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and unspoiled beaches, Guyana is perfect for those looking for an adventure off the beaten path.

List of Places to Visit in Guyana

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Guyana’s Indigenous peoples.
St. George’s Anglican Cathedral: A historic church in Georgetown, famous for its stained glass windows.
The National Museum of Guyana: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Guyana, including archaeological and ethnographic artefacts.

Natural Attractions of Guyana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kaieteur Falls: One of the world’s tallest single-drop waterfalls, plunging 741 feet into the Potaro River.
Turtle Mountain: A towering mountain in the heart of Guyana’s rainforest that offers breathtaking views.
Guyana’s Rainforest: A vast and unspoiled rainforest that is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, anacondas, monkeys, and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guyana

Roraima Trek: A challenging yet rewarding 6-day trek that takes visitors to the summit of Roraima.
Iwokrama Forest: A dense rainforest that offers a variety of hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
Konashen CO-OP Trail: A popular 10-day trek that takes visitors through the heart of Guyana’s rainforest.

Best Things to Do in Guyana: Activities and Tours

River Safari: Explore the country’s rivers and waterways and spot wildlife such as caimans, otters and giant river otters.
Wildlife Watching: Guyana is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Spotting wildlife like jaguars, giant otters, and harpy eagles is a highlight of any trip here.
Amerindian Village Tours: During these tours, visitors can learn about the traditional cultures and way of life of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guyana

Day	Activity
1	Arrival in Georgetown, visit to St. George’s Cathedral and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology
2	City Tour of Georgetown including the National Museum
3	Visit the Kaieteur Falls in the morning, depart for the Pakaraima Mountains
4	Start the Roraima Trek
5	Continue the Roraima Trek to the summit
6	Descend from Roraima and return to Georgetown
7	Visit Turtle Mountain and the Iwokrama Forest

Food and Drink Scene of Guyana

Must-Try Dishes

Pepperpot: A spicy meat stew made with cassareep (a sauce made from cassava) and served with bread or rice.
Bake and saltfish: Fried bread with salt cod, served for breakfast.
Roti: Similar to a tortilla, usually stuffed with vegetables and meat.

Local Beverages

El Dorado Rum: Produced in Guyana, this rum is well-known for its smooth taste and high quality.
Mauby: A drink made from the bark of the mauby tree, it has a slightly sweet and slightly bitter taste.
Coconut water: A refreshing drink made from the water inside a coconut.

Where to Stay in Guyana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cara Lodge: An elegant and charming hotel located in the heart of Georgetown.
Arrowpoint Nature Resort: A beautiful riverside resort in the Essequibo River with hiking and kayaking options.
Kanuku Suites: A modern and comfortable hotel with a central location in the capital city.

What to Buy in Guyana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guyanese crafts: There are many local crafts to buy in Guyana, including pottery, basketry, and wooden carvings.
Demerara sugar: Known for its unique flavor, this sugar is produced in Guyana.
El Dorado Rum: A bottle of Guyanese rum makes for a great souvenir and a delicious gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Guyana

Guyana is a diverse country with a mix of different cultures and traditions. The Indigenous peoples of Guyana have a rich cultural heritage and visitors should respect their customs. Guyana is known for its friendly and welcoming people, so visitors should take the time to interact with locals and learn about their customs.

Best Time to Visit Guyana

The best time to visit Guyana is during the dry season, which runs from late November to mid-April. During this time, temperatures are cooler and rain is less frequent, making it easier to get around and enjoy outdoor activities. The wet season, which runs from late April to early August, brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, making travel more difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guyana

Do:

Dress modestly when visiting Indigenous communities.
Take a river tour and explore the waterways of Guyana.
Try local dishes like pepperpot and roti.

Don’t:

Drink tap water in Guyana, always drink bottled water.
Leave valuables unattended in public places.
Take photos of Indigenous people without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guyana

Guyana is a relatively safe country, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling in certain areas, especially at night. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in urban areas, so it’s important to be vigilant and keep valuables secure. Visitors should also avoid traveling alone at night and in areas away from main roads.

Health in Guyana

Visitors to Guyana should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as dengue fever and malaria are present in the country. It’s also recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever and make sure routine vaccinations are up to date.

Getting to Guyana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Guyana

Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Guyana’s main international airport, located in Timehri, about 25 miles south of Georgetown.

Bus Stations Near Guyana

There are no bus stations near Guyana, but visitors can take buses or taxis into the country from neighboring Brazil, Suriname, or Venezuela.

Other Options

There are no road or rail links to Guyana. Visitors can get to Guyana by boat from Brazil, Suriname or Venezuela.

How to Get Around in Guyana

Taxis and minibuses are the main form of public transport in Guyana. Car rentals are also available. Tour operators offer a range of excursions to different parts of the country. Visitors should also consider hiring a guide to explore the rainforest or to hike to remote locations.

Where to Go Next from Guyana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Suriname: A former Dutch colony with a blend of European, African and Asian cultures, it’s a great place to explore the historic buildings of Paramaribo or venture into the Amazon rainforest.
Trinidad and Tobago: A two-island nation with stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and a rich cultural heritage.
Brazil: The world’s fifth-largest country, Brazil boasts awe-inspiring natural wonders like the Amazon rainforest and Iguazu Falls.

Conclusion

Guyana is a unique and fascinating country with plenty to offer visitors looking for an adventure off the beaten path. From exploring the pristine rainforests and stunning waterfalls to uncovering the rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in this South American gem. By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Guyana and create memories that will last a lifetime.