Guyana

Types of trips: Cultural, Historical, Nature, Geographical, Adventure, Exploration

Best known for: Rainforests, Bauxite/Gold production, Rice Fields, English-speaking

Why Go?: Guyana is a country of mixed influences - its period of British rule, the Caribbean culture, humid rainforests and vibrant nature all come together to make this a destination that will be hard to define but memorable to say the least!

Fact File

Population: 740,000

Capital: Georgetown

Language(s): English

Ties to the UK?: Used to be a British colony until 1966

Landscape: Low coastal plains that house the majority of the population, with sandy hills, rainforests, savannahs and mountains found further inland.

Climate/Seasons: Generally quite hot and humid with cooler areas along the coast, with a two rainy seasons running from May - August and November - January.

When to Go: While it is warm year-round, you are best avoiding the wet season and any potential flooding/storms!

Reasons to Visit: Mixed culture, Wildlife/Geography

How to Get There: Air travel is the best way to get to Guyana from the UK, and there is a good international airport near the capital city that you can fly to.  

Places to Go: Roy Geddes Steel Pan Museum, Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology

Famous People: Donald Ramotar, Shakira Caine, Cheddi Jagan, Lisa Punch, Janet Jagan

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Mount Roraima, Iwokrama Forest, Kaieteur Falls

History: Colonised by the Netherlands and the British at separate times and was known as British Guiana until 1966 when it gained independence

Architecture: St George's Cathedral, City Hall, Castellani House

Culture: Strong English influences - very similar to the Caribbean culture.

Sport: Cricket, Softball Cricket, Football

Events: Guyana Folk Festival, Mashramani, Rupununi Rodeo

Watch Out For: There is some likelihood of trouble at nighttime - you are best travelling during the day and avoiding 

Medical Issues: There are some advised vaccines and boosters for travelling to Guyana - see this page for a good general overview, but always consult with a doctor.