Overview

The co-operative Republic of Guyana, commonly known as Guyana is mostly recognized through its old name, British Guiana. It is one of the smallest countries in South America and is quickly becoming an interesting and beautiful vacation spot.

Guyana is a country that shares borders with three major countries in South America including Suriname, Venezuela, Brazil, and it is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the north. Guyana is a non-Spanish speaking country, which is rare for countries in South America. The official language of the country is English, making it a very user-friendly place for those who are not familiar with Spanish. Guyana gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. This country is favorably located at the spot where the Caribbean Sea meets the continent. Guyana preserves intact rainforests which pave way to the Amazon basin, dense jungles beaming with wildlife and uncharted mountains and rivers.

Activities & Attractions

Annai to Lethem is a region near the Kanuku Mountains. It has the Rupununi Savannas, which are Africa-like plains scattered with Amerindian villages and an exceptional diversity of wildlife. You can see the world's largest water lilies, huge caimans and many colorful birds in this region. Further south of Letham, you can see a cowboy town which is the home to the Guyana's Vaqueros. You can see the annual Easter rodeo here.

Technically you need permission to visit Amerindian communities but if you are traveling with Iwokrama or a tour company, this should be taken care of for you; inquiries can be made at the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in the Office of the President (226-5167; New Garden St & Vlissengen Rd, Georgetown).

Don and Shirley's shop at the Lethem airstrip is the best place to get information about the local attractions, guides and other points of interest in the area. Pat Rash has an internet café right next to the shop and is another good source of information.

Georgetown is the capital of the country and serves as an interesting tourist attraction. In Georgetown, visitors can visit the Museum of Guyana, the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, and the National Library. The impressive St.George's cathedral which stands tall in the city is considered to be the world's tallest wooden building. Those who want to know more about the country and the city in general should make sure they drop in at the different museums in the city. Other interesting places to visit in Georgetown are the Botanic Gardens, Kaieteur Falls, Liberation Monument, and the Stabroek Market.

Lodging

Hotel Par Park, Mahogany Hotel are some of the recommended hotels in Corriverton. In Georgetown Cara Lodge, Eena's Guest House, Florentene's Hotel, and Hotel Ariantze are some of the well booked hotels.

Transportation

Transportation will be different, depending on where you actually decide to go in Guyana. Those who want to go to many places can opt for either boats or ferries. Water travel is prominent in Guyana, considering how much of the country is on, or near, the water. There are also buses and taxis that can take you to various places in Guyana, including its main city, Georgetown.