Electricity

The electrical current is 240 volts, 60Hz. American two-pin plugs are generally used.

Language

English is the official language in Guyana, but the vast majority of the population speaks Guyanese Creole.

Money

The Guyanese dollar (GYD) is the official currency. Cash can be exchanged at hotels, banks, and licensed cambios, which often offer the best rates. U.S. dollars are widely accepted in cities but less so in rural areas. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants, though cash is preferred. ATMs are mostly found in Georgetown and may not accept foreign cards, so travellers should bring sufficient cash and consult their tour leader for trusted exchange options.

Tipping

Tipping is common practice in Guyana, with a 10 to 15 percent gratuity being the standard amount.

Health

Travellers to Guyana should consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for visitors aged one year and older arriving from countries with yellow fever risk or transiting through such countries for more than four hours. Malaria risk exists, especially in jungle areas; prophylaxis is recommended for most regions, but not necessary for Georgetown and New Amsterdam. Insect protection is vital to prevent malaria and dengue fever. Tap water should not be consumed; bottled water is available. Public and private hospitals often face shortages of basic supplies. Comprehensive travel health insurance is essential.

Safety

Visitors should be mindful of petty and violent crime throughout the country, and should take sensible precautions during their stay. Among other things, they should avoid deserted or under-populated areas, walking alone after dark, and showing signs of affluence. They should also ensure that their belongings, including their passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Local customs

Guyanese society is generally quite laid-back and accepting, and western travellers should not be unduly worried about 'clashing' with the social mores and customs that they will find in Guyana. Visitors should, however, note that the Guyanese favour a frank, direct communication style, and that the culture embraces public displays of affection or anger. They should also note that in Guyana, it's actually considered rude not to use a car's hooter when passing another vehicle, travelling through an intersection, or driving past pedestrians. Homosexual activity is illegal; possession and trafficking in drugs leads to lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Doing business

For the most part, the pace and attitudes are very relaxed and friendly, with most people preferring to meet face-to-face to establish a relationship. Visitors should consider providing business cards and wearing business clothing but, due to the tropical climate, ties are optional in many settings.

Duty free

Travellers to Guyana over the age of 18 may import up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 227g of tobacco. 758ml of wine, 758ml of spirits and an amount of perfume reasonable for personal use is also allowed for import.

Communications

The international access code is +592.

Passport & Visa

All travellers to Guyana must have a return or onward ticket, valid travel documents, and proof of sufficient funds. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for arrivals from at-risk countries, including transits over four hours. Some nationals may need pre-approval for a visa on arrival; travellers should check requirements before visiting. Passports should have at least six months' validity. Immigration officials may apply rules more strictly than expected, so travellers should ensure all documentation is complete and accurate before arrival.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months, for British passports endorsed British Citizen. Holders of British passports with other endorsements should contact their nearest Guyanese embassy to confirm their visa requirements. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of intended stay in Guyana. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to three months. Passengers with confirmation of a pre-arranged business, employment, or student visa can pay for and obtain a visa on arrival.

Useful contacts

Guyana Tourism Authority, Georgetown: +592 219 0094 or info@guyana-tourism.com

911 (police), 912 (fire and rescue), 913 (medical emergencies)