Warnings & Dangers in Guyana
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Guyana is quite unsafe, and being here, you need to use common sense and avoid troubles as much as possible. You should always monitor your belongings and pay attention to your surroundings. Avoid walking at night, and don't be on the streets alone.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not safe; tourists are better off with a rented car or taxi. Beware of pickpockets on buses. Taxi is secure if you use a licensed service and the driver turned on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpockets and wallets are not uncommon in Guyana, especially in the busiest areas of the country, such as Georgetown. Be extremely careful in the Stabruk area and the area behind the Burda market - these are places where minor crimes are reported, and most often, pickpockets operate here.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Guyana is not subject to a lot of natural disasters; however, during the rainy season (from December to January and from May to July), there is the possibility of floods that pose a real threat.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Armed violent crimes in Guyana occur frequently. Tourists, unfortunately, also become their victims. Armed robberies, robberies, burglaries, assaults, and rape are frequent. Areas, where you should be especially careful, include the village of Buxton, which is located along the road that leads from Georgetown to New Amsterdam, as well as Agricola, which is located along the East Bank highway.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
Although there were no terrorist attacks in the recent history of Guyana, they should not be ruled out, so always be careful. Avoid political and any other demonstrations and gatherings of people. Examine the situation in the country before your visit here.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Guyana has a high risk of fraud. Always check everything twice and negotiate a price in advance, especially for a taxi. Buy goods and services only in trusted locations so as not to get fake. For your safety, withdraw money only at trusted ATMs at banks.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH
Women are not recommended for traveling to Guyana alone. It may not be safe here, and there have been reports of violence towards single women travelers—travel in company, preferably men. It’s best to refrain from traveling here at all.
How Safe Is Guyana for Tourists?
Guyana is an unsafe country to travel to.
The crime index in the country ranges from medium to high.
The main problems are related to the theft of things, housebreaking, car theft and hacking, drug trafficking, and corruption.
In addition to worrying about these crimes, travelers are advised to be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, malaria, and some others.
It is better to have a first-aid kit with the necessary medicines with you, as in Guyana, a pharmacy may not have the funds you need.
When traveling, try to eat cooked food, not raw vegetables.
Wash them with purified water before use.
Traveling in Guyana is relatively safe, but for some, it can be overwhelming.
It is best to book your trip in advance so that your hotels, domestic transportation, and tours are booked in advance.
During a night trip to Georgetown, it is best to book a reliable taxi for tracking.
One must be alert in crowded or remote areas of the capital and other coastal urban areas.
Georgetown is notorious for petty street crime.
Do not walk alone at night, or even in the day, unless you know the area well.
Be sensible about wearing jewelry.
Use common sense.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Guyana?
The Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana exempts visa requirements for nationals of specific countries or territories. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months.
Which Currency Is Used in Guyana?
The Guyanese dollar has been the unit of account in Guyana since 29 January 1839. The Guyanese dollar is normally abbreviated with the dollar sign $, or alternatively G$ to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies.
How's the Weather like in Guyana?
The best times to visit Guyana for ideal weather are September 3rd to November 18th. The average temperatures in Guyana vary very little and the weather feels hot all year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Guyana?
Cheddi Jagan International Airport is the main and the biggest airport in Guyana. The airport is located on the right bank of the Demerara River in the city of Timehri, 41 kilometers south of Guyana’s capital, Georgetown.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Guyana?
Guyana is an English-speaking country on the northeast coast of South America, washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and covered with dense tropical forests. English and Caribbean traditions influenced the culture of the country. Therefore both cricket and calypso music are accessible here. The capital of Guyana, Georgetown, is known for British colonial architecture.
Is the Water in Guyana Safe to Drink?
The quality of water in Guyana most often it is publicly available and suitable for use. But tap water is not drinkable. Use bottled water for your safety.
Is Uber Safe in Guyana?
Uber is not available in Guyana. But you can use any other taxi services in that country.