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Why you should visit Guyana

Guyana may be small, but the South American nation is a natural paradise teeming with undiscovered landscapes and wildlife

Written by Lidia Molina Whyte

Located where the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea meet, Guyana is nature in its original form. Of Guyana’s modest population of 747,000, 90 per cent live along the coast, meaning the country’s lush heart is mostly untouched – and ripe for exploration.

Guyana is the only South American country where English is the official language, and there are plenty of connecting flights to its historic coastal capital Georgetown. From camping trips deep in the tropical forest to community led and owned tourism, here’s what you can expect when you land in this beautiful country:

To learn more about flights and transport in Guyana

The rich wildlife

Guyana’s forests are valuable reservoirs of biodiversity and provide habitat for approximately 8,000 plant species and more than 1,000 species of terrestrial vertebrates. Many of these animals and plants are endemic species, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth.

Guyana is often referred to as ‘the Land of the Giants’ due to its abundance of jaguars, giant anteaters, giant otters, black caiman, anaconda and arapaima. The country is also home to more than 910 birds. Bird-watching enthusiasts will have the chance to spot the likes of the harpy eagle, Guianan cock-of-the-rock and the striking hoatzin, Guyana’s national bird.

Learn more about wildlife spotting and birding tours, fishing and riding at the country’s many ranches

The lush landscapes

Guyana is one of the few countries in the world where you can still marvel at natural wonders without swathes of crowds dampening the experience. The country’s 83,000 square miles are home to a density of biodiversity seldom found anywhere else on the planet: striking waterfalls, vast savannahs, majestic mountains and snaking rivers.

The iconic Kaieteur Falls (which are five times taller than Niagara) are a must-visit during the trip, as is Kaieteur National Park. You can access them via small aircraft, but a multi-day hike to reach the top is far more satisfying – don’t forget your hiking boots!

From eco lodges and home-stays to heritage hotels and bed & breakfasts, discover where you should stay

The diverse people

Amerindian, African, Indian, Chinese and European influences are all part of Guyana’s rich cultural landscape. Nine indigenous peoples call Guyana home, too, and are proud to share their cultural traditions and protected environments with guests who visit their remote villages.

Though Guyana is geographically in South America, it’s Caribbean at heart. This is reflected in the country’s music, art, architecture and unique Creole-Indian-Caribbean cuisine. Expect to be welcomed with open arms – it’s hard not to fall in love with the natural beauty of Guyana and its people.

Want to learn more about ethical and sustainable traveling in Guyana?