When thinking of Guyana in the Caribbean, you may not think of rainforests and cities, but the best places to visit in Guyana that are safe and beautiful inherit strongly from this country’s South American-and-Caribbean roots. A sovereign state on the Caribbean coast of South America, Guyana is one of the few Caribbean countries to be located in South America, and thus has a rich heritage of natural beauty, from rainforests to waterfalls (‘Guyana’ actually derives from an indigenous phrase meaning ‘land of many waters’!). If you’re not impressed by this country’s stunning natural beauty, perhaps Georgetown, it’s most populous area, will be more up your street; from culturally-rich museums to bustling night-life, the city has something for everyone. Guyana is a country made up of vastly differing geological features; this country has natural beauty aplenty. Whilst this country does not hold any World Heritage sites, it is recognized by UNESCO for being an area worthy of conservation.
Although, like most countries in South America, Guyana has
If the other side of the South American sub-continent
intrigues you, then perhaps a read of the best places
to visit in Ecuador that are safe and beautiful will add
fuel to the fires of your wanderlust. But for now, let’s
get on with the top 7 places to visit in Guyana!
7. Mount Roraima
Mount Roraima, with its breathtaking sheer-cliff top,
is the triple border point of Guyana, Brazil and Venezuela.
The table-top mountains of this range are considered
some of the Earth’s oldest geological features, and are
not to be missed by geology enthusiasts and avid climbers.
6. Iwokrama Forest
The Iwokrama Forest covers one million acres, and is a
lush green paradise full of flora and fauna surprises
for scientists and adventurers alike. It is often called
the ‘green heart of Guyana’, and is a nationally-protected site.
5. Kanuku Mountains
These mountains are recognised by Conservation International
for being one of the last, pristine Amazon habitats. The
mountainous backing makes for a jaw-dropping panorama,
fabulous for hiking, and the savannah surrounding contains
many a delight for nature lovers.
4. Georgetown
The capital city of Guyana, Georgetown is host to financial
districts and major retail, as well as being the seat of
political power (Parliament Building is an architectural wonder,
and should make the list of anyone visiting this city). Although
small for a capital city, Georgetown offers everything you’d
expect and more; shopping, museums, and beautiful skylines.
3. Kaieteur National Park
Home to the Kaieteur Falls, this park is a nationally-protected
site with a diverse range of plant and animal life to keep budding
biologists on their toes. The Kaieteur Falls are a stunning sight,
surrounded by lush, green forest; perfect for losing all your worries in.
2. Orinduik Falls
This waterfall cascades over solid, semi-precious jasper
rocks to the beautiful relaxing river beneath. The rolling
green hills surrounding this area add to the tranquility of one
of Guyana’s most beautiful waterfalls, and any visitor is sure
to be left breathless by the awe-inspiring power of the falls.
1. Shell Beach
Bordered by the Atlantic seaboard, Shell Beach is a unique
ecosystem all of its own, containing Mangrove forests,
swamps, and savannahs. It is around 90 miles long and is the
nesting site of four of the world’s marine turtle species.
Whilst during nesting times areas of the beach may be
protected by conservation efforts, this amazing stretch of
coast is not to be missed.
With its rich cultural and biological heritage, the best places to
If you follow simple, common sense travel tips and plan your
itinerary, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able
to see all the beauty Guyana has to offer whilst also
staying safe and secure. As always, check local news and
weather before you travel, and don’t be afraid to adjust
your plans if you need to.
