If you’re looking for a unique and little-explored destination, Guyana might be the perfect choice. Located in the north of South America, this country blends lush nature, rich culture, and fascinating stories. With landscapes ranging from vast tropical rainforests to stunning waterfalls, Guyana offers all that and much more. I’ve put together this article for you who are looking for things to do in Guyana. Come along and check out more details about the seventh safest country in South America.
Discover Guyana: An Exotic Destination in South America
Guyana is one of the most fascinating and least known countries in South America. Located in the northern corner of the continent, on the Atlantic coast, it shares borders with Brazil, Venezuela, and Suriname. With a population of around 800,000 people, Guyana stands out for its cultural diversity and natural beauty, which for many years went unnoticed by international tourists.
The Territory of Guyana: Natural and Geographical Diversity
Guyana is a country of modest dimensions, covering about 214,000 square kilometers. Its territory is a mix of landscapes ranging from coastal areas, with their plains and mangroves, to mountains and tropical rainforests inland.
The Guyanese coast is where most of the population is concentrated, with the capital, Georgetown, being the main urban center. Here, the terrain is flat and agricultural areas—especially rice and sugarcane cultivation—dominate the landscape. The coastal region is also protected by an extensive network of dikes and dams, which prevent the sea from encroaching and allow areas to be used for farming.
Inland, the terrain becomes more rugged, with vast tropical forests and powerful rivers like the Essequibo and the Corentyne, which are vital for transportation and the country’s economy. Guyana is rich in natural resources, including vast reserves of gold and bauxite, and is also an ecotourism destination, with areas such as the Iwokrama National Park and the famous Kaieteur Falls, one of the largest in the world.
The Pakaraima Mountains and the Guiana Highlands, which mark the most remote and wild region of the country, are home to indigenous tribes and offer some of the most spectacular and untouched landscapes on the continent.
With such a diverse territory, Guyana is a place that enchants with its preserved nature and breathtaking landscapes, serving as an open invitation for adventurers and nature lovers.
History and Culture
The country’s history is marked by Indigenous, African, Indian, and European influences, which are reflected not only in its cuisine and festivities but also in its traditions and the way of life of its people. Although most of the population lives in the capital, Georgetown, the true essence of Guyana lies in its natural landscapes: dense tropical forests, mighty rivers, and stunning waterfalls like the famous Kaieteur Falls, one of the highest in the world.
In addition to its lush nature, Guyana boasts a vibrant culture that blends the heritage of the various ethnic groups that make up Guyanese society. Festivals such as Mashramani, which celebrates Republic Day, are colorful and full of music, dancing, and parades, offering a unique experience for those visiting the country.
The official language of Guyana is English, which makes the country unique in South America, where most nations speak Spanish or Portuguese. This makes communication much easier for tourists who already speak English. In addition to the official language, many Guyanese also speak Guyanese Creole English, used informally in daily life. It’s also common to find communities that speak Hindi, Urdu, and Indigenous languages. This blend of languages reflects the country’s cultural diversity. Communication is friendly and welcoming everywhere you go.
Top Destinations
Guyana is an underexplored destination in South America, but full of natural and cultural beauty that captivates those who choose to venture there. With wild landscapes, massive waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and cities rich in history, the country offers an authentic and out-of-the-ordinary experience. Below, you’ll discover some of the top destinations and the best things to do in Guyana that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Georgetown: The Gateway to a Surprising Country
Georgetown is the capital of Guyana and the starting point for those who want to explore this still little-known South American country. Located on the Atlantic coast, the city blends history, culture, and nature in a very authentic way. Walking through Georgetown is a chance to experience a place where the British colonial past meets the cultural diversity of the present.
Although it’s not a metropolis, Georgetown is vibrant and full of life. Its architecture stands out right away, with colonial wooden buildings, wide streets, and colorful markets. One of the city’s highlights is St. George’s Cathedral, considered one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Imposing and charming, it’s a true symbol of the city.
Another interesting place to visit is the Stabroek Market, the central market, where you can find a bit of everything: tropical fruits, spices, clothes, household items, and the true local atmosphere. The market building, with its Victorian-style clock tower, is an attraction in itself. Walking through its corridors is a cultural experience, with sounds, smells, and colors that showcase the blend of peoples living there—Africans, Indians, Indigenous peoples, Europeans, and Asians.
For nature lovers, Georgetown also surprises. The city is surrounded by mangroves and canals that resemble a tropical version of Venice. The Georgetown Botanical Gardens is a great place to relax and birdwatch, including the rare hoatzin, Guyana’s national bird. Nearby, the Guyana Zoo features species typical of the Amazon region.
Local cuisine is also a highlight. Georgetown offers a wide variety of dishes influenced by Indian, Creole, Chinese, and African cooking. It’s easy to find rice with curry, roti (a type of Indian flatbread), fresh fish, and delicious natural juices.
Another advantage of Georgetown is that the city serves as a base for those looking to visit more distant attractions, such as the famous Kaieteur Falls, the Essequibo River, and the Iwokrama Reserve. Local agencies offer tours that depart directly from the capital, either by plane or by road.
Georgetown may not be a tourist city in the traditional sense, but it’s precisely this authenticity that makes it so interesting. It’s a welcoming capital, with a laid-back rhythm and friendly people always ready for a chat. For those willing to discover a different side of South America, Georgetown is an excellent starting point to experience a journey rich in culture, nature, and discovery. One thing’s for sure: there’s no shortage of things to do in Guyana when you’re in Georgetown.
Explore Guyana’s Natural Beauty
How to Enjoy Guyana’s Rivers and Tropical Forests
Guyana is a perfect destination for those who love wild nature and adventure. With over 80% of its territory covered by tropical rainforests and crisscrossed by powerful rivers, the country offers unique and unforgettable experiences for ecotourism enthusiasts.
One of the best ways to enjoy this lush nature is by exploring the rivers of Guyana, such as the Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice. Boat trips are common and allow you to observe the local fauna, including rare birds, alligators, and even giant otters. It is also a peaceful way to visit indigenous communities and riverside villages, getting to know the local way of life up close.
In the tropical forests, adventure is guaranteed with guided trails, animal observation expeditions, and visits to reserves like Iwokrama. Walking through these forests is like diving into a green and silent world, full of nature’s sounds, giant trees, and animals hidden among the leaves.
Guyana is still little known by tourists, which makes contact with nature even more authentic.
Kaieteur Falls
Kaieteur Falls is one of the most impressive attractions in Guyana and one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Located in the middle of the tropical forest, within Kaieteur National Park, this natural wonder is in a remote region, making the journey there part of the adventure.
The most common and practical way to reach Kaieteur Falls is by plane. Departing from the capital Georgetown, there are regular flights on small planes that last about 1 hour. The journey offers an incredible view of the Amazon rainforest, and as you approach the waterfall, you can see it from above in a breathtaking setting. Local companies usually offer tours that include the round-trip flight, a tour guide, and free time to explore the surroundings of the waterfall.
For the more adventurous, it is also possible to reach by land and river, but this option requires several days of travel and physical preparation, as it involves trails and navigation in jungle rivers.
Iwokrama Wildlife Reserve
The Iwokrama Wildlife Reserve is one of Guyana’s natural treasures, located in the heart of the tropical rainforest. With about 371,000 hectares, this protected area is a paradise for those seeking direct contact with nature and wishing to explore one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.
The most practical way to get there is by plane. Departing from Georgetown, the country’s capital, you can take a flight to the Fair View airstrip, near the reserve. From there, a short car ride takes you to the Iwokrama River Lodge, the main accommodation and base for activities in the region.
For more adventurous travelers, there is also the option to go by land. The Linden-Lethem road crosses the forest and connects Georgetown to southern Guyana. Although this route offers incredible landscapes, it is important to remember that road conditions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
Regardless of the chosen path, visiting Iwokrama is a unique experience. The reserve offers forest trails, boat trips on the Essequibo River, and the chance to spot an impressive variety of animals, including rare birds, monkeys, and even jaguars. It is the ideal destination for those who wish to disconnect and marvel at nature in its purest state.
When is the Best Time to Travel to Guyana
Guyana has an equatorial climate, meaning it is hot and humid throughout the year. However, there are two main rainy seasons: one from May to August, and a shorter one from December to January. During these periods, the rains can be strong and frequent, making outdoor activities, access to some interior regions, and even flights to attractions like Kaieteur Falls difficult.
Therefore, the best time to visit Guyana is from September to November and from February to April. During these months, the weather is drier, which facilitates outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, boat trips, and visits to nature reserves. It is also a good time to explore Georgetown more peacefully.
Besides the weather, it is worth considering cultural events. In February or March, for example, the lively Mashramani, the local carnival, takes place, full of music, dances, and colorful parades.
In summary: if you want to enjoy the best of Guyanese nature and avoid the rains, plan your trip for the drier months. This way, you can enjoy the adventure with more comfort and safety.
How to Get to Guyana: Quick Guide for Tourists
Traveling to Guyana may seem challenging at first, as the country is not yet a very popular tourist destination. But with a little planning, it is possible to get there without major difficulties and enjoy everything this unique place has to offer.
The most common and practical way to get to Guyana is by plane, landing at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, which is about 40 km from the capital, Georgetown. The main international connections are with cities such as Miami (USA), Toronto (Canada), New York, Panama, and Caracas (Venezuela). There are also direct flights from Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, which serve as Caribbean hubs. For those in Brazil, the simplest route is to take a flight to one of these countries and then continue to Guyana.
Another option is to arrive by land, crossing the border in the state of Roraima. The Brazilian city of Bonfim borders Lethem in southern Guyana. This route is ideal for those already in northern Brazil who wish to explore the country from within, traveling from Lethem to Georgetown via the Linden–Lethem road, which crosses the tropical forest.
It is worth noting that Brazilians do not need a visa to enter Guyana for stays of up to 90 days. You only need to present a valid passport, proof of yellow fever vaccination, and a return ticket.
Although still little visited, Guyana is becoming increasingly accessible to curious and adventurous travelers. With impressive natural landscapes and a rich culture, getting there is the first step to experiencing a unique and uncommon adventure.
Conclusion
Guyana is a destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility, with options ranging from expeditions in tropical jungles to tours of its rivers and quiet villages. With an infrastructure that is modernizing, the country offers an authentic and charming experience for travelers who wish to explore one of the most secret and surprising corners of South America.
Guyana is undoubtedly a destination for curious travelers and nature lovers. Its main tourist attractions combine adventure, culture, and untouched landscapes, providing a trip unlike anything else out there.
