Guyana

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. 


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