Set on South America’s northern coast between Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela, the remarkably wild country of Guyana is a nature lover’s dream, with its long stretches of deserted powder white beaches, its untouched rainforests, vast savannahs, mighty rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls. The nation’s prime attraction is the awe-inspiring Kaieteur Falls which is the world's highest free-flowing waterfall. Guyana’s charming, picturesque capital city and primary port of Georgetown boasts all the comforts of modern living, fine colonial buildings, broad, tree-lined boulevards and some interesting wooden architecture, including the massive St. George's Cathedral, thought to be the world’s tallest wooden building. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, whitewater rafting, hiking, or visiting the nation’s numerous remote villages, home to exceptionally welcoming inhabitants.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Guyanese Dollar
Symbol: GYD
ISO code: GYD
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: $20, $50, $100, $500, $1000, $5000
Coins: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: No
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Caribbean Airlines
International Airports: Cheddi Jagan International Airport
Domestic Airports: Eugene F. Correira International Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: No
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Guyanese cuisine is influenced by African, Indian, European, and Indigenous cultures. Highlights include pepperpot (a spicy meat stew), curry dishes, roti (flatbread), and cassava bread. Notable local drinks include mauby, ginger beer, and rum punch.
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 2000 - 4000 mm
Average temperature: 26°C
Summer:
Average highs: 31°C
Average lows: 24°C
Winter:
Average highs: 29°C
Average lows: 22°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Guyana is from February to April, during the dry season, when wildlife viewing and outdoor activities are optimal.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: No
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 120V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.