South America

Guyana

Giant waterfalls, open savannah and a wooden cathedral on the coast.

Guyana is one of the least-visited countries in South America, and most of it is untouched rainforest. Kaieteur Falls drops in a single spectacular plunge through the jungle, while the Rupununi savannah and the Iwokrama forest are home to giant otters, jaguars and giant anteaters. On the coast, Georgetown has Dutch-built canals, Stabroek Market and the towering wooden St George's Cathedral.

This is a trip for nature lovers rather than beach seekers, often built around community-run eco-lodges. Food reflects Indian, African, Chinese and Amerindian roots, with pepperpot and curry roti staples. Small planes are the practical way into the interior. September to November and February to April are the driest months, avoiding the long rains of mid-year.

Best time to visit Guyana

March, September, October.

Places to visit in Guyana

• Georgetown: Guyana's Caribbean-facing capital, with painted timber colonial buildings, a busy market and sea walls holding back the Atlantic.
• Kaieteur Falls: A powerful single-drop waterfall on the Potaro River, surrounded by rainforest and usually reached by small plane from Georgetown.

Essentials

• Currency: Guyanaese Dollar (GYD)
• Language: English; Guyanese Creole widely spoken
• Plugs: Type A / B / D / G, 240 V
• Driving: Left side
• Time zone: UTC−4
• Tipping: 10% in restaurants if no service charge is added
• Getting around: Minibuses along the coast; small planes or organised tours for the interior
• Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking

Plan a trip to Guyana