Guyana, a country of exceptional natural beauty, is a splendid combination of the Caribbean and South America, with fascinating touches of a sometimes turbulent past. Perched on the north-east corner of the South American continent, Guyana stretches 450 miles from its long Atlantic coastline into dense equatorial forest and the broad savannah of the Rupununi. The picturesque capital and primary port is Georgetown, a city of comfortable, modern hotels, fine colonial buildings, and broad, tree-lined boulevards. The striking wooden architecture is reminiscent of Guyana's centuries as a Dutch, and then a British colony. Georgetown offers an evocative introduction to the land of Guyana. Don't miss the imposing St. George's Cathedral, reputed to be the tallest wooden building in the world. Life in Guyana is dominated by mighty rivers, including the Demerara, the Berbice and the Essequibo, which provide essential highways into the rain forests and jungles of the interior. Mankind has made little impact here, and today Guyana remains one of the world's most exciting destinations for adventuresome travel and exploration. Setting out for the interior by boat, light aircraft or 4x4, you encounter the extraordinary natural heritage of Guyana spreading out like a tropical carpet. Jaguar still roams the rain forest, and the unearthly cries of troupes of howler monkeys echo through the trees. The Giant River Otter, the Black Caiman, and the Arapaima (the largest freshwater fish in the world) swim in the rivers of the Rupununi. Flashes of scarlet, yellow and blue burst through the forest's intense green as macaws fly like arrows across a clearing in the canopy. Toucans, and the awesome Harpy Eagle, swoop through the trees, while the beautiful but elusive Guyana Cock-of-the-Rock lingers around the waters of Kaieteur Falls. More than 700 indigenous species of birds adorn Guyana's forests.
The tumbling rivers and dense rainforests of Guyana are filled with extraordinary natural sights. Kaieteur Falls, where the 400-foot wide Potaro River plunges 741 feet downward from the Pakaraima Plateau, is one of the world's great waterfalls. The magnificence of Kaieteur stands beyond any comparison in its majesty and sheer size. You can also visit the striking beauty of the Orinduik Falls, the Marshall Falls, the Kaieteur Gorge and remote Mount Roraima - the inspiration for Conan Doyle's Lost World. For the adventurer, Guyana is a place of wonder; for the eco-tourist, it is a country where nature has placed its greatest riches. Feel the beauty of the nature whisper across your heart. Discover an experience never to be forgotten. Discover the extraordinary wilderness of Guyana.
Official Language: English
Demonym: Guyanese
Currency: Guyanese dollar (GYD)
Time Zone: (UTC-4)
Internet TLD: .gy
Calling Code: +592
Visa formalities for Guyana:
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay required by all nationals of
U.K, USA, Australian, Canadian, and Other EU.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to U.K, U.S.A, Australian, Canadian, and Other EU for stays of up to 90 days except the following:
(a) Nationals of Austria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovak Republic, Slovenia and Sweden who do need a visa;
(b) transit passengers continuing their journey to a third country by the same aircraft or by first connecting aircraft within seven hours, without leaving the airport.
Visa Note
A Guyanese citizen traveling on a foreign passport does not require a visa if the passport clearly indicates the place of birth to be Guyana or a well-recognized place in Guyana such as Georgetown, Demerara, Essequibo, Berbice or Corentyne. If this is not the case, documentary proof of birth in Guyana must be presented to the Immigration authorities in Guyana, such as a birth certificate (both birth and marriage certificates in the case of a married woman) or an expired Guyana passport.
Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist: £20. Business: £20 (single-entry); £25 (one-year multiple-entry). Courtesy visas are issued free of charge to spouses or close relatives of Guyanese citizens, provided they supply documentary proof.
Validity
Visas are usually valid for three months from the date of issue. However, the length of stay and extension is at the discretion of the Immigration Office.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission); see General Info.
Working Days Required
Depends on whether the application has to be referred to the authorities in Guyana. Generally, applicants should contact embassy or high commission at least one week in advance of travel to Guyana. If passport is to be returned by a courier service, pre-paid arrangements (making sure to include own account number) must be made by the applicant.
Warning
Most visits to Guyana are trouble-free, but crime levels are high especially in Georgetown and towns in the coastal regions. Visitors to the eco-sector (which excludes Georgetown and the coastal regions) generally experience no problems.
The risk of terrorism is low but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
Attractions in Guyana:
St. George’s Cathedral – Georgetown
St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown, also known as St. George's Anglican Cathedral, is located on Church Street. The church boasts to be one of the tallest wooden structures in the world in addition to being the second tallest wooden church. The height of the church is about 43.5 meters. Sir Arthur Bloomfield was the architect of St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown. The church opened to public on 1899. This beautiful attraction has now been selected as a National Monument. History tells that the first church dates back to 1810 but due to increasing membership the church became too small to host to host gathering so St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown was built to accommodate all the people at the same time. The foundation of the church was laid on 21 November 1889.
The beautiful St. George’s Cathedral in Georgetown has spectacular Gothic arches, beautifully designed columns and flying buttresses. The interior of the church gives glimpses about the history of Guyana. St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown also houses is a small Gothic shrine to commemorate Bishop Coleridge who was first Bishop of Barbados, decorative stained glass windows that portray scenes like Crucifixion and the Ascension and a large chandelier that was gifted by Queen Victoria. In addition to this the church also exhibits spectacular traditional architecture that enhances the beauty of St. George’s Cathedral, Georgetown.
Orinduik Falls –Guyana
Orinduik Falls, Guyana are the most visited tourist attraction that is situated Ireng River- which is a highland river. The river lies on the border of Brazil and Guyana and merges with Takutu River and later merges into the Amazon River. The falls enhance the beauty of Pakaraima Mountains on which this spectacular attraction is located. The falls are called the Orinduik Falls; Guyana is because Orinduik is the Amerindian name of a famous aquatic plant present at the falls. At this famous site you will find numerous aquatic plants some of which even have herbal qualities.
Once you visit the beautiful and splendid Orinduik Falls, you will surely fall in love with this place. The place offers tranquil surroundings where you can relax your tensed muscles and rejuvenate your mind and body. Orinduik Falls, Guyana is a treat for eyes all nature lovers must not miss a chance to visit this spectacular tourist spot. The falls are an ideal romantic place to take your beloved for a memorable outing. Children enjoy playing with water and while their parents are clicking pictures is a common sight at the Orinduik Falls, Guyana.
Demerara Harbour Bridge – Guyana
Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana is a floating toll bridge which is 6,074 feet long floating toll bridge. The bridge started its operation on the 2 July 1978. The bridge boasts to be one of the longest floating bridges in the world. The construction of Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana started as early as 29 May 1976 with assistance of the British Government. This floating bridge is about 1.25 miles long and has 61 spans. Even small crafts can pass through this Guyanese bridge. The bridge crosses Demerara River therefore this floating bridge was given the name- Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana. An interesting and amusing fact about this tourist attraction is that toll is collected only in one direction that is from east to west travel although the bridge takes care of traffic in both the directions. Toll slips of Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana are collected at the West Bank. Traffic going west to east does not need to pay any toll tax. The bridge is the links people of Georgetown to people living in West Bank Demerara. With the construction of this bridge has helped in promotion and growth of business and trade across the country. Management and Monitoring Unit maintain and develop the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Guyana. The bridge also attracts numerous tourists who desire to see this spectacular floating bridge. You must not miss a chance to see and explore Demerara Harbour Bridge in Guyana.
Dadanawa – Guyana
Dadanawa, Guyana is also called as the Melville's Ranch. This tourist attraction is located on the Rupununi River in Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region of Guyana. Dadanawa, Guyana is spread over an area of 2,000 square miles. Dadanawa, Guyana boasts to be the largest and most isolated cattle ranch of the country. Originally this ranch was a cattle trading post started by DeRooie a Guyanese man. The place was then sold to Rupununi Development Company in the year 1919.
This tourist site derives its name Amerindian name from of the local Wapishanan of a mountain, Dadinauwau, which is situated in close proximity of Dadanawa, Guyana. The best way to travel to this Guyana tourist attraction is to hire a vehicle. You can also visit Dadanawa, Guyana by many other ways like by foot, bicycle and saddle, or you can also request local farmers for a ride in the bullock cart. At Dadanawa, Guyana you will be able to see barefoot cowboys or Shepard’s who skillfully guide their cattle and also protect them from various predators. This attraction is a paradise for nature lovers as it offers scenic and picturesque natural surroundings. Annually many tourists visit Dadanawa, Guyana which promotes tourism in the region. Once you visit this site the beauty of this ranch will captivate you and hold your attention.
Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology – Guyana
Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana is the most visited tourist attraction. The museum is one of the oldest museums of the country. The museum of anthropology was established in 1974, but it was open for public viewing only in 1982. As the name suggests Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana is an of anthropology museum which is run by a non-profit organization that was created by the Government of Guyana. The organization takes care of the collection, exhibition and conservation of the artifacts that showcases the spectacular culture of Guyana.
The famous archaeologist of the country Dr Denis Williams founded Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana. Later Dr Walter Roth, Mr J.J. Quelch and Sir Everard im Thurn collections were transferred to this museum. The museum also exhibits excavated objects all the regions of Guyana. Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana is well equipped to provide information for all levels of research. All researchers and students throng this museum in search of information. The museum has played a great role in promoting the culture of the region. All those who are interested to know about the vibrant and colorful cultural heritage of the country must grab the opportunity of visiting Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Guyana. The museum will supply with enough in-depth knowledge about the culture of the county that will satisfy the quench for knowledge.
Fishing
The rivers and the interior abound in game fish, the best known of which is the man-eating piranha (called locally perai). The most sought after by the sportsman is the lucanni, a fish similar to the large-mouth bass. Most of the interior rivers are difficult for the more casual visitor to get to, but those who book in advance can reach them by air. Some of the coastal rivers within reach of Georgetown are also good for fishing, although it is wise to stay overnight in the fishing grounds, as the best are four to five hours’ drive from the city. Fishing licenses are required.
Other
Camping treks, hiking and whitewater rafting have become increasingly popular over recent years. Horse riding is available at Manari Ranch in the Rupununi Savannahs. Cricket and hockey are both popular, and the Bourda is one of the most attractive cricket grounds in the area. Bird watching is also very good in some parts of the country.
Climate of Guyana:
July-November is the best time to visit, although the rest of the year isn't too bad. The two rainy seasons are mid November through January and May-August. Even then, it generally doesn't rain enough to ruin a trip if you stick to the coast (most rainfall occurs inland). Guyana's high temperatures (about 85-90 F/30-32 during the day and 68-72 F/20-22 at night) are somewhat tempered by the trade winds. Take a folding umbrella no matter when you visit (not just for unpredictable downpours, but also for protection from the sun).
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