Guyana

Guyana, whose name is often translated as the "Land of Many Waters," is a remarkable country on the northeast coast of South America, offering travellers a unique experience. It stands out from its neighbours with English as its official language, a vibrant Caribbean flavour, and incredible natural wealth. A significant part of its territory is covered by pristine tropical forests, mighty rivers, and vast savannahs, making Guyana a true paradise for ecotourism and adventure seekers. The country is also home to a diverse population, including a significant community of Muslim and Indian heritage.

The nation's capital, Georgetown, is captivating with its distinctive colonial wooden architecture and bustling, colourful markets, such as the famous Stabroek Market. For visitors from the UAE, the city is welcoming, with several mosques, including the prominent Queenstown Jama Masjid, and a variety of halal food options available, such as Hacks Halaal Restaurant. However, the true treasures of Guyana are hidden in its interior. One of the most breathtaking natural wonders is the Kaieteur region, home to one of the world's tallest and most powerful single-drop waterfalls, Kaieteur Falls. A visit to this site will undoubtedly be one of the most vivid highlights of your trip.

Guyana offers a rare combination of untouched wilderness, a multifaceted culture where Amerindian, African, Indian, and European traditions intertwine, and the sincere hospitality of its local people. Following a recent agreement, the country now offers visa-free travel for UAE citizens, making it more accessible than ever. While the journey from the UAE requires a connecting flight, this destination is ideal for those looking to go beyond standard tourist routes and discover unexplored corners of our planet, full of authenticity and natural beauty.

The national currency of Guyana is the Guyanese dollar (GYD). The banknotes often feature local natural landmarks, such as the famous Kaieteur Falls, as well as the country's flora and fauna. It is recommended to exchange foreign currency for Guyanese dollars at official banks or licensed exchange offices, which can be found in the capital, Georgetown, and other major cities. Try to avoid exchanging money with street money changers due to the risk of fraud or receiving an unfavourable exchange rate.

Credit cards, mainly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and some supermarkets in Georgetown. However, outside the capital and in smaller establishments, cash is the preferred method of payment. Therefore, it is always useful to have a sufficient amount of local currency with you, especially if you plan to travel to remote areas of Guyana. ATMs are also available, but predominantly in the capital and major towns.

When planning a trip to Guyana, it is essential to understand the latest visa requirements. Following a recent agreement, UAE citizens holding regular passports can now travel to Guyana without a visa. This new visa-free travel arrangement was established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two countries in September 2024. Previously, UAE nationals were eligible for a visa on arrival.

Regardless of the visa-free status, you will need a valid passport to enter the country, which should have a validity of at least six months from your intended date of departure from Guyana. It is also wise to be prepared for border officials to request additional documents. These may include proof of onward or return travel, confirmation of your hotel booking, and evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. Carrying comprehensive medical insurance is also a vital document for any international trip. We strongly recommend that you check the very latest visa information on the official websites of the relevant Guyanese authorities before your trip, as entry regulations can change.

Guyana's official time zone is GMT-4 (four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time). This means the time is consistent across all regions, including the capital, Georgetown, and other towns and cities. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains the same all year round.

For travellers from the UAE, it is important to note that Guyana is eight hours behind UAE time. For example, when it is 4 PM in Dubai, it is 8 AM in Guyana.

The most convenient way to reach Guyana is by air. The country's main gateway is the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO), located near the capital city, Georgetown. While there are no direct flights from the UAE, several airlines offer connecting flights, typically with one or two stops. Popular routes from Dubai (DXB) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) often connect through cities in North America (like New York or Miami) or Europe. Airlines such as Emirates, KLM, and British Airways provide options for travel to Guyana.

For travellers starting from the UAE, it is important to note that as of September 2024, an agreement was signed to establish mutual visa-free entry for citizens of both Guyana and the United Arab Emirates. However, it is always best to confirm the latest visa regulations with the respective authorities before your travel. For overland travel, options exist from neighbouring countries. The most common crossings are a ferry service across the Courantyne River from Suriname and a road route from Brazil into the Lethem area. Sea travel via major passenger ships or cruise liners is not a typical way to arrive in Guyana, although local boat services connect to nearby territories. Regardless of your chosen route, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to secure the best fares and availability.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airports:

Guyana, a country of amazing natural contrasts and rich culture, offers travellers a variety of destinations to explore. From bustling urban centres to gateways into untouched jungles and savannahs, there is something here for everyone. An introduction to the country often begins in its capital, Georgetown, which charms visitors with its colonial architecture, wide, tree-lined streets, and the famous Stabroek Market.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Guyana holds real treasures. One of the most breathtaking places is Kaieteur, known primarily for the eponymous Kaieteur Falls, one of the world's tallest and most powerful single-drop waterfalls. This location is astounding in its pristine beauty and might. The town of Lethem, situated on the border with Brazil, serves as a starting point for exploring the unique ecosystems of the Rupununi savannah and learning about the culture of the local Amerindian communities.

Besides the capital and natural wonders, Guyana has other interesting towns. For example, New Amsterdam, the country's second-largest town, boasts a rich history and is an important economic centre. The small town of Bartica, located at the confluence of three rivers, is often called the "gateway to the interior" and attracts those who wish to delve deeper into the life of regions far from the coast. Each of these places offers its own unique experience and perspective on the multifaceted country of Guyana.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Guyana is the Stabroek Market in Georgetown. It is more than just a shopping destination; it is a true symbol of the city with its famous cast-iron clock tower. Here you can immerse yourself in the bustling local life, find exotic fruits, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs, experiencing the authentic spirit of Guyana. The country has a significant Muslim population, and many restaurants in Georgetown offer halal food options; it is always best to ask to be sure.

For nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat, a visit to the Georgetown Botanical Gardens is a must. This vast green oasis offers a chance to discover a rich collection of tropical plants, including the stunning Victoria Amazonica water lilies. The garden is a wonderful place for a walk, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the quiet away from the city's hustle and bustle. For those who wish to perform prayers, several mosques are located within Georgetown.

Another popular spot for recreation and leisure in the capital is the National Park. It offers spacious green lawns, shaded avenues, and opportunities for active pursuits. It is an excellent place for a picnic, a morning jog, or simply to relax and watch the city's residents go about their day.

Guyana, with its equatorial climate, offers two main dry periods that are considered the high season for travel: from late January to April and from late August to November. During this time, you can expect predominantly sunny weather with less rainfall and more comfortable humidity. These are the ideal conditions for exploring the country's rich natural environment, from hiking in tropical rainforests to visiting the famous Kaieteur Falls and going on safari in the Rupununi savannahs. Roads into the interior, leading to places like Lethem or Mahdia, are generally in better condition at this time, making travel easier. Although Guyana does not experience the same influx of tourists as some other destinations, there may be slightly more travellers during these months.

The low season in Guyana coincides with two rainy seasons: from May to mid-August and from mid-November to mid-January. This period is characterised by frequent, sometimes heavy, tropical downpours, and the humidity is noticeably higher. However, this season also has its advantages: nature is in its full glory, and waterfalls, including Kaieteur Falls, become particularly powerful and spectacular. There are usually fewer tourists, creating a more secluded atmosphere, and it is sometimes possible to find better deals on accommodation and tours. The main drawback is that the rain can disrupt plans, and some roads into the country's interior may become difficult to pass.

When planning your trip, it is also worth considering interesting events. The vibrant Mashramani festival (Republic Day) takes place in February, during the height of the dry season. At Easter (usually March-April), you can visit the thrilling Rupununi Rodeo. September in Guyana is Amerindian Heritage Month, which features various cultural activities. For Muslim travellers, while halal food options and prayer facilities can be found in the capital, Georgetown, it is advisable to make arrangements in advance when venturing into remote regions. Although the climate is tropical throughout the country, it is worth remembering that weather conditions in coastal areas and the interior savannahs can differ slightly, especially in terms of rainfall intensity. Therefore, if your trip is focused on a specific region, it is recommended to check the local forecast.

Guyanese people are known for their friendliness and openness. Greetings usually involve a handshake and direct eye contact, which is considered a sign of respect. Although interactions are often informal, addressing elders or people you don't know well with titles (Mr, Mrs) is appreciated. Hospitality plays a significant role in Guyanese culture; if you are invited into someone's home, it is considered a great honour. A small gift for the hosts, such as fruit or sweets, is a thoughtful gesture, although not always strictly required. In general, politeness, a smile, and a genuine interest in the person you are talking to will help you connect with the locals. Try to avoid being overly rushed or showing public displays of frustration – calm and respectful communication is highly valued.

Regarding clothing, light and comfortable attire is preferred for daily life due to the tropical climate. However, when visiting religious sites – such as churches, mosques, or Hindu temples – it is important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know that Guyana has a significant Muslim community, with over 140 mosques across the country and readily available halal food. There are no particularly strict rules at the dining table, but it is customary to wait for the hosts to begin eating, and it is considered polite to try at least a little of each dish offered. The cultural life of Guyana is rich and diverse, which is reflected in its festivals. For example, Mashramani (Republic Day) in February is a vibrant carnival with music, dancing, and street parades, while Diwali, the festival of lights, is widely celebrated by the Hindu community and illuminates the country with thousands of lights, symbolising the victory of good over evil. Familiarising yourself with these traditions will allow you to better understand the soul of Guyana and show respect for its multicultural heritage.

Guyana offers travellers a unique range of entertainment, centred mainly around its incredible nature and distinctive culture. Fans of active recreation will discover a world of untouched tropical rainforests, ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and expeditions along its numerous rivers. A visit to the majestic waterfalls will be an unforgettable adventure. The country's cultural life reflects its multinational heritage: in the capital, Georgetown, you can visit museums, explore local art, and possibly attend musical or dance performances that showcase its colourful traditions.

Evening entertainment in Guyana is mainly concentrated in Georgetown, where you can find restaurants with Caribbean and international cuisine. With a significant Muslim population in the country, many dining establishments offer halal food options. For those interested in shopping, the capital offers markets and shops where you can buy unique handmade souvenirs, wooden crafts, local products, and jewellery. Families with children will also find plenty to do, especially if they are drawn to nature – many eco-lodges and national parks offer educational walks and the opportunity to see exotic animals and plants in their natural habitat.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey do not come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. The official currency in Guyana is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the latest rates both before your departure and throughout your trip. To do this, you can use the data provided below — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.