Guayana

1. What are the top attractions to visit in Guyana?
Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall at 741 feet, is a must-see in Kaieteur National Park—accessible via a short flight from Georgetown ($150–$200). The Iwokrama Rainforest offers wildlife spotting, including jaguars and harpy eagles, with canopy walkway tours at ATTA Rainforest Lodge ($50–$100). Georgetown’s St. George’s Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden structures globally, and the vibrant Stabroek Market are cultural highlights. The Rupununi Savannah in the southwest features cattle ranches and the annual Rupununi Rodeo (Easter). Shell Beach is a nesting site for giant leatherback turtles (March–August). Visit the Demerara Distillery for a rum-tasting tour ($10–$20). The Essequibo River, Guyana’s largest, offers boat tours to spot river dolphins ($30–$50).

2. Is Guyana safe for tourists?
As of March 2025, Guyana requires a high degree of caution due to violent crime, particularly in Georgetown. Armed robberies, carjackings, and kidnappings are risks, especially after dark—avoid isolated areas and keep valuables hidden. The border with Venezuela is tense due to disputes; monitor local media if traveling near there. Tap water isn’t safe; use bottled water. Malaria and dengue are risks in rural areas like the Rupununi—bring repellent and consider prophylaxis. Medical facilities are limited outside Georgetown, with poor hygiene standards; travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Flooding during rainy seasons (May–August, November–January) can disrupt travel, especially in coastal areas. Protests in Georgetown can turn violent—avoid large gatherings.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Guyana?
U.S., EU, Canadian, Australian, and many other nationalities don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days—just a passport valid for 6 months. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if coming from an affected country. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested at entry. Extensions can be applied for in Georgetown at the Immigration Office ($20–$50). Visa requirements apply for some nationalities, like India or China—check with the nearest Guyanese consulate (fees $30–$100). Border crossings with Suriname and Brazil require official points due to disputes—use the ferry at Molson Creek for Suriname ($10) or the Takutu River Bridge for Brazil. Entry rules can change, so confirm before travel.

4. What is the best time to visit Guyana?
Guyana’s tropical climate has two rainy seasons (May–August, November–January) and two dry seasons (February–April, September–October). The dry seasons are best for travel, with temperatures of 25°C–32°C (77°F–90°F) and less flooding, ideal for exploring the Rupununi Savannah or Iwokrama Rainforest. Kaieteur Falls is most dramatic during the rainy seasons but harder to access due to muddy trails. Turtle nesting at Shell Beach peaks from March to August. The Rupununi Rodeo in Lethem (Easter) is a cultural highlight. Birdwatching in the Iwokrama Rainforest is best from September to April for migratory species. Coastal areas like Georgetown can be humid year-round (80% humidity). Avoid peak rainy months for rural travel due to impassable roads.

5. How do I get to Guyana and get around?
Fly into Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO) in Georgetown. Direct flights from the U.S. (Miami, New York) take 5–6 hours ($400–$800 round trip) with American Airlines or Caribbean Airlines. From Europe, connect via Trinidad or the U.S. (12–16 hours, $800–$1,500). Domestic flights to Kaieteur Falls or Lethem with Trans Guyana Airways cost $150–$250 (1–2 hours). Public minibuses in Georgetown are cheap ($0.50–$1) but crowded—use taxis for safety ($3–$5 per ride). For the interior, 4x4 vehicles are needed due to unpaved roads ($80–$150/day rental). Ferries cross the Essequibo River to Bartica ($5–$10). Travel between Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil is possible via ferry or bridge but can be slow—allow extra time for border formalities.

6. What are traditional Guyanese foods to try?
Try pepperpot, a spicy meat stew with cassareep (cassava juice), often served with dense bread—best at local spots in Georgetown like Backyard Café ($5–$10). Cook-up rice, a one-pot dish with beans, coconut milk, and meat, reflects Guyana’s multicultural roots. Metemgee, a thick soup with root vegetables and dumplings, is a coastal favorite. Sample Indo-Guyanese dishes like chicken curry with roti ($3–$7) at Stabroek Market. For snacks, grab egg balls (boiled eggs wrapped in cassava) or fish cakes ($1–$2). Sip a Banks Beer or the local rum, El Dorado, aged up to 15 years ($5–$10). In the Rupununi, taste farine, a cassava-based staple, with smoked fish. Finish with pineapple tarts or coconut drops for dessert.

7. What wildlife can I see in Guyana?
Guyana’s 80% rainforest coverage makes it a wildlife haven. In the Iwokrama Rainforest, spot jaguars, red howler monkeys, and giant anteaters—guided tours cost $50–$100. The Rupununi Savannah is home to capybaras, pumas, and black caimans; Karanambu Lodge offers river otter rehabilitation visits ($20 entry). Birdwatching is exceptional with over 800 species—see the Guianan cock-of-the-rock and harpy eagles in Iwokrama ($30–$50 for guides). Shell Beach hosts leatherback turtles nesting (March–August, $100 tours). The Essequibo River has pink river dolphins and arapaima fish—boat tours from Bartica are $30–$50. Poison dart frogs and giant river otters are also common in the interior. Always use a guide for safety in remote areas.

8. What cultural experiences should I explore in Guyana?
Celebrate Mashramani (February 23), Guyana’s Republic Day, with street parades and calypso music in Georgetown. Visit an Amerindian village like Surama in the Rupununi to learn about Makushi culture—try cassava bread-making ($40–$60 tours). In Georgetown, explore the National Museum for colonial history ($2 entry) and the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology for indigenous artifacts ($3 entry). Join a rum-tasting tour at Demerara Distillery to sample El Dorado ($10–$20). Attend the Rupununi Rodeo (Easter) in Lethem for cowboy culture and rodeo events ($10 entry). Experience Diwali (October/November) with Indo-Guyanese communities—see lit deyas and enjoy sweets like barfi. Visit a Maroon community near Bartica to learn about African-descended traditions ($30–$50).

9. What should I know about Guyanese culture before visiting?
Guyanese are warm but reserved—greet with a handshake and “Good morning.” English is the official language, widely spoken, though Creole is common in casual settings. The population is diverse: Indo-Guyanese, Afro-Guyanese, Amerindian, and mixed heritage—respect all traditions. Dress casually but modestly, especially in rural areas (25°C–32°C/77°F–90°F). Lunch is the main meal, often rice-based. Tipping 10% is appreciated in restaurants. Cricket is a passion—expect lively discussions about the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Public affection is minimal, and same-sex relationships are illegal, though rarely enforced—discretion is advised. Avoid discussing the 1978 Jonestown Massacre; it’s a sensitive topic. Bargaining is expected at markets like Stabroek but not in stores.

10. What are the best accommodation options in Guyana?
In Georgetown, the Guyana Marriott Hotel offers luxury ($150–$250/night), while Cara Lodge, a colonial-style guesthouse, is budget-friendly ($80–$120/night). In the Iwokrama Rainforest, ATTA Rainforest Lodge provides eco-stays with canopy views ($100–$200/night, meals included). Karanambu Lodge in the Rupununi offers rustic cabins and wildlife tours ($150–$300/night, all-inclusive). In Lethem, Savannah Inn is a simple option near the rodeo grounds ($40–$70/night). For Shell Beach, basic eco-lodges like Almond Beach Camp cost $80–$150/night with turtle-watching tours. In Bartica, try the Platinum Inn for a central location ($50–$90/night). Book early for the interior, as lodges are limited and fill up during peak seasons (February–April, September–October).