The Top 9 Best Things To Do In Georgetown, Guyana – Travel Guide

Georgetown is like a melting pot of cultures and history, with so much to see and do. Being the least visited capital in the whole American continent, it means that you won’t get places overcrowded with tourists, making it more authentic. From its charming colonial architecture to its busy markets and vibrant street life, Georgetown has a unique charm that’ll capture your heart. And hey, don’t forget about the Essequibo River! It’s one of the longest rivers in South America, and you can take a boat ride along its waters to explore hidden gems and breathtaking scenery.

1 – Explore St. George’s Cathedral

St. George’s Cathedral is a must-visit landmark in Georgetown, Guyana. As one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world, this architectural marvel is a sight to behold. Step inside and admire the stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, a visit to St George’s Anglicqn Cathedral is sure to leave a great impression.

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2 – Wander Through the Botanical Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Here, you’ll find a diverse collection of tropical plants, colorful flowers, and towering trees. Don’t miss the chance to visit the peaceful lily pond, home to somewater lilies and aquatic life (including Manatees that you can feed!). There also some nice felines, like jaguars, lynx and bobcats. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing escape from the city, the Botanical Gardens offer a serene oasis in the heart of Georgetown. Note that if you want to visit the zoological park within the botanical garden, it will cost you around $5 for the entrance ticket (the botanical park is free to visit though).

3 – Visit the National Museum

Step into Guyana’s rich history and culture with a visit to the National Museum. Housed in a beautiful colonial-era building, the museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, rich wildlife stuffed animals and displays that chronicle the country’s past. From Amerindian artifacts to colonial relics and cultural artifacts, there’s plenty to discover and learn about. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, anthropology, or local art, the National Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Guyana’s heritage.

4 – Explore the Promenade Gardens

Spend a relaxing afternoon at the Promenade Gardens, a picturesque park located in the heart of Georgetown. Take a nice walk along the coast, admire the colorful flower beds, and relax on the lush green lawns. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic bandstand, where live music performances are often held. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a lively gathering spot, the Promenade Gardens offer a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

5 – Take a River Cruise on the Demerara River

Embark on a scenic river cruise along the Demerara River and discover Georgetown from a different perspective. Cruise past historic landmarks, waterfront mansions, and bustling ports as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks, including birds, monkeys, and maybe even a caiman or two. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a leisurely boat ride, a river cruise on the Demerara River is a very pleasant experience.

6 – Shop at Stabroek Market

Head to Stabroek Market, also known as “Big Market,” and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling marketplace. Here, you’ll find everything under the sun, from fresh produce and local crafts to clothing, electronics, and more. Take your time to explore the maze of stalls and haggle with vendors for the best deals. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, spices, or just want to soak up the local culture, Stabroek Market is a must-visit destination in Georgetown.

7 – Discover the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology

Right across to the Promenade Gardens, you can step into the fascinating world of anthropology at the Walter Roth Museum. Located in Georgetown, this museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays that showcase the cultural heritage of Guyana’s indigenous peoples. From pottery and tools to ceremonial artifacts and traditional clothing, the museum offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse history of Guyana’s indigenous communities. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around you, a visit to the Walter Roth Museum promises a great educational experience. Note that the museum is closed during weekends.

8 – Enjoy a Day Trip on the Essequibo River

Experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Guyana with a day trip on the Essequibo River. Departing from Georgetown, the tour takes you on a scenic journey across the Demerara Harbor Bridge to Roed-en-Rust, where you’ll board a boat to explore the Essequibo River. Along the way, you’ll visit Fort Zeelandia in Fort Island (not to be confused with the Fort Zeelandia in Paramaribo, Suriname), Sloth Island for lunch, Bartica, Baracara Falls, and Fort Kyk-over-al. The tour ends with a transfer back to Georgetown at dusk, leaving you with memories of a day filled with adventure and exploration.

9 – Discover Kaieteur Falls and Orinduik Falls on a Day Trip

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to witness the majestic beauty of Kaieteur Falls and Orinduik Falls. Departing from Georgetown, the day trip takes you on a scenic flight over the lush rainforests of Guyana to Kaieteur National Park. Here, you’ll marvel at Kaieteur Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in the world, as it plunges 741 feet into the gorge below. Afterward, you’ll take a second quick 30-min flight (with the same aircraft) to visit Orinduik Falls, which separates Guyana from Brazil, you can have your feet in both countries at the same time! Here crystal-clear waters cascade over rocky outcrops, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Expect many local tribal kids to come play around and swim with you.  With opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views, a day trip to Kaieteur Falls and Orinduik Falls promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Guyana’s wilderness.

Note that it is recommended to visit both places during the rainy season, as the water flow is significantly increased with rainfall, making the experience more impressive. During the dry season, the Orinduik Falls might even be completely dry. The photo you see above (that we took during our trip to Orinduik), was taken during the dry season but according to our guide, we got lucky as it had been raining a little bit the days before.

There is only one company offering such day trips for tourists, Trans Guyana Airways via the travel agency Evergreen Adventures. You can book with them directly.

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A little recap about our guide. The best places to visit and things to do in Georgetown are:

1 – Explore St. George’s Cathedral
2 – Wander Through the Botanical Gardens
3 – Visit the National Museum
4 – Explore the Promenade Gardens
5 – Take a River Cruise on the Demerara River
6 – Shop at Stabroek Market
7 – Discover the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology
8 – Enjoy a Day Trip on the Essequibo River
9 – Discover Kaieteur Falls and Orinduik Falls on a Day Trip

This guide was updated on March 2024