Welcome to Guyana

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path eco-adventure destination that has beauty and culture in spades? Combining staggering natural grandeur with a happy, welcoming community, this densely forested country has an inviting Caribbean vibe, lively markets, happening nightlife and even a boisterous cricket scene.

Trek through the forest, capturing countless photos of blue- and yellow-billed toucans. Watch for wild river otters in Karanambu. Stand at the precipice of breathtaking Kaieteur Falls – five times as high as Niagara, with no barriers.

Head to a working ranch and work alongside South American cowboys, then take in a cricket match while sipping a rum cocktail. Meet a traditional Amerindian Makushi family in the North Rupununi area in the Pakairaima Mountains. Explore museums, markets and restaurants in the colonial capital, Georgetown.

Journey into the heart of the Iwokrama Rain Forest and learn all about it at the research center. Guyana is your ticket to one of the most authentic South American trips one can have.

Unique Facts

• Nearly 80 percent of Guyana is covered by pristine rain forest.
• Guyana is well known for its El Dorado rum, produced the Demerara Distillery. Take a tour, enjoy a tasting and learn about the aged rums from three to 50 years old.
• In addition to Kaieteur Falls, the world’s highest single-drop waterfall, Guyana has at least 300 waterfalls, including the famous Orinduik Falls and Marshall Falls. The word Guyana actually translates to “land of many waters.”
• Guyana is incredible eco-diverse. You can explore marine, coastal, estuarine, riverine, mangrove, savanna, cloud forest, rain forest, lowland, evergreen and swamp habitats.
• Guyana is comprised of six ethnic groups, making for incredibly diverse cuisine. You’ll taste Amerindian, European, African, East Indian, Portuguese and Chinese influences.

Language

Guyana’s official language is English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Guyana is in the beginning of August or the end of February. These periods fall right after the two rainy seasons. The waterfalls are at their fullest and the vegetation at its lushest.

Airports

Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Georgetown

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Guyana: Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Yellow Fever. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Malaria and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A, B, D and G. Standard voltage: 240V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Guyanese Dollar

Getting Around

Be advised that road conditions in Guyana differ significantly than those in the United States. Exercise caution when driving, especially after dark.

Use only taxis that are connected to major hotels or are painted yellow, which are registered with the Government of Guyana’s licensing office.

Driver’s License

Foreign visitors must obtain a temporary Guyanese driver’s license.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Georgetown
100 Young & Duke Streets
Georgetown, Guyana
Telephone: +(592) 225-4900/9
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(592) 623-1992
Fax: (592)-225-8497
acsgeorge@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana
Waterloo St, Georgetown, Guyana
Tel: +592 225 0807

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Guyana. Armed robbery can occur in businesses, shopping areas and hotels. Keep valuables in your hotel safe.
Petty crime in Georgetown is common, including theft, car break-ins, pickpocketing, purse snatching, assault and robbery, particularly in the general area of Stabroek Market and behind Bourda Market.