Guyana is a country of extremes. Georgetown is a gritty city where it’s hard for people to trust people, but once you get over their tough looks, locals become friendly and love to talk about their families. On the other hand, the jungle-covered interior is a natural wonder that should be on your bucket list, with abundant biodiversity for frogs, monkeys and agoutis, as well as world-class waterfalls and rivers.
How to Get to Guyana
Georgetown Chedi Jagan International Airport is the country’s main entry point, with several airlines offering flights from Suriname, the United States (Miami), and some Caribbean countries. Airlines include Suriname Airlines, Caribbean Airlines, Copa Airlines and Insel Air.
Georgetown can be reached overland from Suriname, but itineraries after crossing the border cannot be booked in advance and are subject to availability and prices upon arrival. Although it is cheaper than flying, it requires flexibility and a strong sense of adventure.
Best Things About Guyana
Explore Georgetown
A gritty capital city, Georgetown is the starting point for most visitors heading outland, but it can also be an attraction in its own right if you’re careful. With a variety of sights and smells, the vast market is a unique experience.
Please note that it is not recommended to go outside after dark, and be careful during the day. Don’t wear flashy jewelry or clothes and keep your camera out of sight.
Keitul Waterfall
Get there
Keitul Waterfalls is an extraordinary natural wonder that can only be believed by seeing it with your own eyes. The waterfall is the tallest in the world in terms of the amount of water it flows. Caietule easily rivals Niagara with its breathtaking beauty, but unlike Niagara, you won’t find Starbucks there. In fact, it’s so remote that the only way to see it is by charter flight or a hike of more than 6 days.
There are many companies that offer very similar charter services, but the cheapest is Air Services Limited (ASL), which offers a half-day tour from Georgetown Auger Airport for $130. They run 4 days a week, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, checking in at 11:30 a.m., departing at 1 p.m. and returning at 5 p.m. It is required to sit next to the pilot for the best view.
Explore the waterfall
Upon arrival at Keitul Falls, you will be guided to the park office where you will meet your guide who will take you to see the falls from three vantage points. Each location offers incredible views of the spectacular natural power of Keitul Waterfall. The falls are more than 4 times taller than Niagara Falls and are surrounded by dense natural jungle rather than American restaurant chains, but be aware that there are no viewing platforms or safety railings, so be careful near the edges or risk a long fall.
The sound and sight of water rushing over the boulders below is stunning, and the rainbow formed in the rising mist will make you feel how special it is to be part of such a small tour group. It’s almost as if you own this heavenly place yourself. Enjoy watching the waterfalls, but while you’re there, be mindful of the surrounding scenery and organisms as well. If you look closely, you might spot a tiny golden frog or an elusive rock rooster (not as dirty as it sounds!). This is a rare bird).
Iwoklama Rainforest
The Iwocrama Rainforest is located inland Guyana, along the Essequibo River, the third largest river in South America. The dense forest and associated wildlife are similar to those of the nearby Amazon, which is home to tropical birds, howler monkeys and caimans. It is also home to the Iwo Krama River Lodge and Research Centre, which was inaugurated in the 1990s as a site for tropical forest research and conservation.
Wildlife lovers can enjoy early morning bird watching tours and animal watching tours. The forest is home to many animals, including mountain lions, monkeys, anteaters, capybaras, hugely colored butterflies, sloths, tapirs, rare birds and exotic insects. History buffs will be captivated by the etchings of the local indigenous tribes thousands of years ago, and those interested in the local culture can visit the local Amerindian community.
One activity not to be missed is the hike to the top of Mount Kameyama. The mountain is more like a 300-meter-high hill, but don’t mistake this for a walk in the park. The humidity in the jungle is almost 100%, and sweat runs down your face before you start ascending the slopes. Still, the view from the top of the hill is worth it as you can see the endless jungle and the Essequibo River.
The last activity is the Iwokrama Canopy Walk. The Canopy Walk is a series of suspension bridges suspended from the trees, allowing you to walk with birds and monkeys in the canopy. While this has the potential to become an amazing experience, the bridge seems to be rusting and requires more frequent maintenance. These guidelines ensure that these bridges are installed by Canadian companies and are regularly maintained. Please decide for yourself.
Transport
Due to the remote location and dense jungle of the Iwokrama rainforest, trips must be organized through the Iwokrama River Lodge. Depending on your budget, there are a variety of transportation and accommodation options.
It is only 350 kilometers from Georgetown, but it takes 10 hours due to poor road conditions. During the rainy season, it may take longer. For visitors on a tight budget, the cheapest way to get to Iwokrama River Lodge is by public minivan, which costs $125 per person for a round trip from Georgetown. Groups that want a little more comfort or larger groups can book a private hotel vehicle and driver from Georgetown for $500 round trip for up to 4 people. This is the most recommended option, as not only is the vehicle more suitable for driving conditions, but the driver is more likely to drive safely.
If you have enough money and want to make a shorter and more comfortable trip, there are two flight options. The first is a flight to Annai, where you will meet a River Lodge vehicle and driver who will take you to the lodge during the 2 to 4 hour drive. It costs $500 for one person and $780 for two people (i.e. $390 per person). If money is not a limit, then you can charter a flight from Georgetown to Fairview Airport, 2 kilometers from Iwokrama River Lodge. Charters for 1-5 people start at $2250.
Lodging
Residential training room stays at Iwokrama River Lodge start at $25 per night, research building rooms start at $45 per night, and romantic double cabins overlooking the river start at $150 per night. Budget rooms are basic but comfortable with shared bathroom facilities. The cabin is spectacular, with a large deck with hammocks and chairs to watch the sunrise over the river while birds and howler monkeys scream in the surrounding jungle. There was no air conditioning on site except reception, but the river breeze at night was enough to cool the room. Slow Wi-Fi is available during dining hours in the dining area.
What to Eat in Georgetown
Georgetown’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Caribbean flavors. Think grilled chicken and spicy curry. Shanta’s Indian offers cheap local curries that are delicious and simple. Locals love Church’s Chicken, and if you’re looking for fast food, it’s definitely the way to go. In addition to this, there are many Chinese restaurants around that offer traditional Chinese dishes at great prices.
How to Get Around Georgetown
The best way to get around Georgetown is by taxi. They are easy to find because if the driver sees you walking anywhere, they will beep at you. Prices are reasonable, but no meter is used, so be sure to ask for a price before heading in. Everyone speaks English, so there is no language barrier. Trips between the airport and Georgetown are usually $20 to $30, depending on your bargaining power.
Note that walking around Georgetown at night is not recommended and it is best not to stray too far from the main town during the day. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t take too much with you in the first place.
Stay Near Georgetown, Guyana
There are no hotels in Guyana, and Airbnb is still growing its following, so hotels are the best option.
Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel
Offering a more western experience, Ramada features air-conditioned rooms, a swimming pool and a casino. If you’re looking for a hotel that offers services but doesn’t cost more than $200, this is your best chance. The room price for a double room is USD 125 per night. Remember, it’s still Georgetown; Just don’t expect quick service or new sheets, you’ll be fine.
Julian’s Guesthouse
This hostel offers simple but reasonably priced rooms. There is also a bar downstairs, almost always empty, but if you can get the attention of the hostess, it offers cheap cold drinks. Wi-Fi was good and free, both the upstairs room area and the downstairs bar were available. Room rates are $45 per night, or $30 if you’re willing to forgo air conditioning. It is highly recommended to pay extra for air conditioning as Georgetown is very warm and the humidity is high due to regular downpours.