Guyana is a hidden gem in South America, offering lush rainforests, vast savannas, and unique cultural traditions. Most travelers don’t know much about this beautiful country, so I want to help with a flexible 7-day itinerary that gives you a little bit of everything: culture, history, and the natural beauty of Guyana. You will dip into remote villages, explore iconic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the city life of Georgetown. Let’s get to it!
Day 1: Arrive in Georgetown
Your adventure kicks off in the country’s capital, Georgetown. Most likely, you’ll arrive at Cheddi Jagan International Airport. It’s about an hour’s drive into the city, so you’ll have time to get settled at your accommodation before exploring.
After checking in, start your exploration with a casual walk around the city’s main sights. Georgetown has this easy-going, Caribbean-influenced vibe that makes walking around relaxing. A good first stop is the St. George’s Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings.
Next, head to the Promenade Gardens for a stroll and if you’ve got time, swing by the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology. It offers a useful introduction to the country’s indigenous culture.
Where to Eat
For your first dinner in Guyana, try Shanta’s. It’s a local favorite, serving up hearty Caribbean food—think roti and curry.
Day 2: Explore Georgetown
Today, take a deeper dive into Georgetown. Start your day at the bustling Bourda Market. You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, and street food options that will give you a feel for the local flavors.
Later, visit Botanical Gardens, which is a peaceful spot to unwind. It is home to the famous giant Amazonian water lilies. Nearby, you’ll find the Guyana Zoo, which is also worth a quick stop.
In the afternoon, history buffs will want to check out Georgetown City Hall, a classic example of Gothic architecture. If you’re interested in art, stop by the National Gallery (also called Castellani House) to see exhibitions featuring local artists.
Where to Eat
For lunch, head to The Backyard Café, a quirky spot that offers personalized meals, often featuring farm-to-table recipes.
In the evening, try Aagman Restaurant for a more upscale option. They do a mix of Indian and Guyanese dishes. Perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
Day 3: Kaieteur Falls
No trip to Guyana would be complete without visiting Kaieteur Falls, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. The falls are five times higher than Niagara Falls and are set deep in the jungle.
You’ll need to take a small charter plane to get there. The views from the flight itself are worth the trip alone. Once you arrive, you’ll follow your guide on a short hike to several viewpoints. The best part? You won’t be dealing with crowds. This place feels untouched.
After taking in the incredible views, you’ll fly back to Georgetown. Depending on the time you return, spend the evening relaxing or grab a drink at one of the local bars.
Where to Eat
Try The Water Street Grill for some drinks and casual dining when you’re back in Georgetown.
Day 4: Iwokrama Rainforest
Time to leave the capital and head into nature. Today, you’ll make your way to Iwokrama Rainforest. You can either fly to Lethem and take a 4×4 from there or you can take a guided day tour from Georgetown.
Iwokrama is one of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might catch a glimpse of jaguars, giant otters, or the elusive harpy eagle. Spend the day on guided hikes through lush scenery and enjoy the tranquility of the canopy walkways.
If you are staying overnight, you can book into one of the eco-lodges inside the park. It’s a great way to completely disconnect from the world and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle.
Where to Stay
Atta Rainforest Lodge offers cozy accommodations inside the Iwokrama Rainforest. Meals are usually included, so you won’t have to worry about food.
Day 5: Surama Village
Today, head deeper into the savannah region of Guyana and visit Surama Village. It’s an indigenous community where you can learn about the traditions and daily life of the Macushi people.
Your visit will include a tour of the village and a hike to a nearby hill where you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. The guides here are incredibly knowledgeable, and you’ll learn a lot about the local way of life.
In the afternoon, take a canoe ride along the Burro Burro River. If you’re lucky, you could spot some wildlife along the way. It’s peaceful and a great way to slow down after several days of travel.
Where to Stay
You can stay overnight in village-run guesthouses. These are simple but comfortable, and it’s a fantastic way to support the community.
Day 6: Lethem and the Rupununi Savannah
Head further into Guyana’s remote wilderness by traveling to Lethem, a gateway to the Rupununi Savannah. It’s a vast, open landscape that’s completely different from the rainforest environment of earlier days.
Once you’re settled in your guesthouse, explore the region at a relaxed pace. The Rupununi is home to numerous species of birds and large mammals like anteaters. This is also cowboy country, so expect to see some ranchers around.
If you’re up for adventure, you can visit one of the nearby Amerindian Villages or take a horseback tour to explore the landscape.
Where to Sleep
Stay at Manari Ranch, a working ranch where you can also experience traditional ranch life.
Day 7: Return to Georgetown
After an overnight stay in Lethem, it’s time to head back to Georgetown. Depending on your schedule, you can either take a quick flight or drive back to the capital.
Once you arrive, spend your last evening enjoying a laid-back dinner by the seawall, watching the sunset. It might have been a whirlwind week, but it’s been full of unforgettable experiences.
Final Dinner Suggestion
For your last meal in Guyana, head to New Thriving Restaurant, which offers a mix of Chinese and Guyanese dishes. It’s a popular spot in Georgetown and a nice place to say goodbye to this amazing country.
Departure
Your Guyana journey comes to an end today. Depending on your flight out, you may have one last morning in Georgetown to grab souvenirs or do some final exploring. Make sure to arrange transport back to the airport in advance.
Guyana’s unique blend of nature, culture, and history means you’ll leave with stories to share and memories that will last a lifetime.
Safe travels!
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