Guyana

The country of Guyana is in north-eastern South America. It has an Atlantic Ocean coastline in the northeast, and lies between Suriname to the east and Venezuela to the West, with Brazil to the south.

It is the third-smallest country in South America after Suriname and Uruguay. The name Guyana (from Arawak Wayana) means "Land of many waters."

Regions of Guyana

Guyanese Coastal Plain ( Georgetown, Bartica, Mabaruma)

Guyanese Highlands (Lethem, Paramakatoi)

Berbice-Corentyne ( Linden)

Cities

• Georgetown - Capital of the nation, situated in the county of Demerara
• Bartica
• Mabaruma
• Lethem
• Linden, a mining town (bauxite) originally named McKenzie, but renamed after the nation's first Executive President, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham
• Paramakatoi

More Destinations

• Kaieteur National Park
• Michelle's Island

Guyana Halal Travel Guide

Guyana mostly consists of rolling highlands with a low coastal plain and savannah in the south. The highest point is Mount Roraima at 2,835 meters.

How is the Climate in Guyana

Guyana's climate is tropical with the hot, humid conditions moderated by northeast trade winds. There are two distinct rainy seasons: May to mid-August and mid-November to mid-January. Flash floods are a constant threat during these rainy seasons.

History

It was a Dutch colony in the 17th century, but by 1815 Guyana had become a British possession. The abolition of slavery led to the purchase of some villages such as Victoria and Anns Grove, as well as black settlement of urban areas and the importation of indentured servants from India to work the sugar plantations. Chinese were also imported to work on plantations but were found to be unsuitable. The Colonial powers employed a system of "divide and rule" among the freed Africans and the other ethnic groups which were brought and encouraged to settle in the then colony. The policy was employed even during slavery when indigenous "Amerindians" were used to hunt runaway slaves. The result was an ethno-cultural divide, significant elements of which have persisted to this day and has led to turbulent politics and the dissolution of attempts at national cultural development and the non-existence of anything resembling a "national identity".

Guyana achieved independence from the UK in 1966, but until the early 1990s it was ruled mostly by socialist-oriented governments. In 1992, Cheddi Jagan was elected president, in what is considered the nation's first free and fair election since independence. Upon his death five years later, he was succeeded by his wife Janet, who resigned in 1999 due to poor health. Her successor, Bharrat Jagdeo, was re-elected in 2001 and again in 2006.

Public Holidays in Guyana

Independence (from UK)

26 May 1966

National holiday

Republic Day, 23 February (1970)

Constitution

6 October 1980

Travel to Guyana

Visas

Foreign nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Guyana visa-free:

• For up to 6 months: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago
• For up to 3 months: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Montserrat, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Korea, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States
• For up to 90 days: Botswana, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Panama, Peru, Uruguay
• For up to 60 days: Eswatini, Malaysia
• For up to 30 days: South Africa, South Korea

When applying for a visa, you will need the application form, a passport valid for at least 6 months, 3 passport size photographs and proof that you have the funds to cover your entire trip to Guyana. If your intent is to work or live in Guyana, you will need to obtain a letter of approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, and include a copy of it in your submission. The only way to submit a visa application is through the mail. Submissions must be made to the nearest Guyanese Embassy.

A tourist visa costs USD80 for up to 3 weeks & USD80 for a month (Issued in Paramaribo, February 2022), single entry business visa costs USD80, a multiple entry 3 month business visa costs USD80 and a multiple entry 1 year business visa costs USD75.

Once in Guyana you can extend your visa at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Georgetown.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Guyana

Cheddi Jagan International Airport

(IATA Flight Code: GEO) Originally the Timehri International Airport (Timehri means "Rock Painting") it was renamed in honour of the indigenous displaced peoples of Guyana. There are daily international flights into and out of Cheddi Jagan International Airport about 40 kilometers south of Georgetown. International flights include Flights to Canada, The Caribbean and the UK and the USA with Caribbean Airlines (formerly BWIA). Caribbean Airlines is a state owned airline run by Trinidad and Tobago. Flights to the Caribbean with Caribbean Star and LIAT. North American Airlines and Xtra Airways, which are non- stop flights, on the New York and Guyana route. Primaris Airlines, non- stop flights, flies to Guyana from JFK-New York and FLL -Florida, also Fly Jamaica Airways which flies from Kingston NMIA Airport and JFK.

Ogle Aerodome

(IATA Flight Code: OGL) A small airfield slightly closer to Georgetown (~6 mi) which is for a few private charter companies, primarily used for domestic/local flights. The following companies have a few daily flights from/to Zorg-en-Hoop Airfield in Paramaribo for $200 one-way or $330 round trip:

• Gum Air - Doekhieweg 03, Zorg-en-Hoop Airport, Paramaribo, Suriname ☎ +597 433830 +597 491740 Opening from Monday to Saturday
• Trans Guyana Airways - TGA - Ogle Aerodome, Ogle, East Coast Demerara ☎ +592 222 2525 Opening from Monday to Saturday

Travel by train to Guyana

There are no international railway services to Guyana.

By car

Guyana has road access to Suriname to the east and Brazil to the south. In Suriname, inquire in Paramaribo for mini-buses travelling to Guyana. entering Guyana by water from Nieuw Nickerie in Suriname is illegal, even though there is nobody to stop you. The worst-case scenario is that you could be sent back or made to pay for a visa. When travelling from Nieuw-Nickerie to Paramaribo over land you will most likely run into a military police roadblock near Totness, but they are after gun and drug smugglers, not tourists. Show your national ID card or a valid driver's licence and they won't even ask for your passport to check if you have the right visa stamps. It appears they don't mind you entering the nation as long as you don't cause trouble and spend your money in their country.

There are no road links between Venezuela and Guyana. Travel to Venezuela may be done by air via Trinidad (Caribbean Airlines) or overland through Roraima state in Brazil.

Travel on a Bus in Guyana

From Suriname and there are shuttle vanes from Paramaribo to South Drain in western Suriname, just across the river from Guyana. The trip takes at least 3 hours and costs around US$15. From there, you will go through customs on the Suriname side. Then take the 11:00 daily ferry across the river to South Drain. The actual ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, but you'll need more time for going through customs on the Guyanese side.

The bus ride from Lethem, at the Brazilian border, to Georgetown takes about 10 hours through rainforest and southern savannah. The ride can be much longer in the rainy season. Sections of the roadway are known to become impassable in heavy rainy weather and extreme care must be taken.

Inquire about buses to Brazil at the Interserv Bus Office on Charlotte Street in downtown Georgetown. Buses usually leave very late at night and it is recommended that you take a taxi to the bus station as the area around there is unsafe at night. For buses from Brazil travel to Bonfim on the border and walk across the border crossing. Find a shuttle van or taxi to take you to Lethem downtown and inquire about buses travelling to Georgetown.

How to get around in Guyana

Pontoon Crossing at Mango Landing Essequibo River - Crossing Essequibo and the nation's longest river

When people in Guyana refer to buses and they mean shuttle vanes. Minibuses travel throughout Guyana and are the cheapest way to travel. Minibus fares range from G$60-1,000 depending on the length of the journey. Travel in this mode at night could be risky.

Many parts of Guyana are separated by large rivers. These areas can be traversed by way of river taxi. Go to the port village and ask from where the speedboats launch. Ask other passengers what the fare is while travelling as boat operators tend to seek higher fees from tourists. Do not take "specials" without first negotiating the price.

Taxis are a good way to get around in Georgetown. Fares should never be more than G$500 for travel within the city and most fares should be around G$400. All taxi number plates begin with 'H.' There are set prices for taxis for different destinations, e.g. from the airport to town costs G$5,000, from the airport to Moleson Creek is G$24,000. From Ogle to downtown is G$1,500.

One can also rent cars or 4x4s; check the local telephone listings for vehicle rentals. Consult more than one rental agency as prices can vary. You might also be able to negotiate the prices charged to some extent. Deposits are usually required. If renting a vehicle, be sure to inquire whether your driver's licence will be acceptable. Violations of traffic laws can result in much time wasted and feasible trips to the local courts.

Local Language in Guyana

The only official language is English (with British spelling) and is spoken by all, though most people natively speak Guyanese Creole. English is very accented and foreigners may find it hard to understand.

What to see in Guyana

• Mashramani | An Amerindian word meaning "celebration after hard work", this event takes places each 23rd of February as the nation's republic anniversary celebration. It's a carnival-like event with float parades and costumed bands. Colourful float parades and costume bands wind their way through the city. While you look on, have a swig of local with coconut water or have some Banks all the while swaying and wining to the beat of the soca and calypso. Starts from about 10:00.
• Kaieteur Falls | US$200-300 It is 5x the height of Niagara Falls, c. 250 m tall. It can be visited by a short plane flight from the capital offered by various tour companies as a day trip. Most companies only operate the day trip on Sundays and so booking ahead is advisable

• Orinduik Falls | A smaller waterfall than Kaieteur that is also included when visiting Kaieteur by plane.

• Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve
• Jonestown Compound. A historic site near Port Kaituma. It is wise to have a local accompany you as the area is heavily forested and is easy to get lost in.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Guyana

Eco-Tourism is a booming industry in Guyana.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Guyana

There are numerous markets and shopping malls, in Guyana. Stabroek Market is a quaint market in Georgetown. Trips to the market for Muslims are best done in groups or with a local with whom you feel comfortable. Muggings are feasible but not frequent.

Lots of locally made and beautiful crafts ranging from paintings; to sculpture; to leather purses, satchels, wallets; hand-painted, tie-dyed and batik(ed) fabrics, pressed flowers, sun hats; semi-precious stones and hand-crafted costume jewellery using indigenous materials, can be purchased at an esplanade outside the Central Post-Office near the National Museum in downtown Georgetown. Ask around and you'll find out about the craft and gift shops as well as galleries.

Guyana is also noted for its exceptional Gold jewellery.

Money Matters & ATM's in Guyana

The local currency is the Guyanese dollar, denoted $ or G$ (ISO 4217 international currency code: GYD). The currency is freely convertible but nearly imfeasible to get rid of outside Guyana and the neighbouring countries and one exchange bureau in London Gatwick airport.

Banknotes are issued in G$20, 100, 500 and 1,000 and there are G$1, G$5 and G$10 coins. G$500, G$1,000 and G$5,000 banknotes have a holographic stripe with a colourful macaw.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Guyana is relatively very high, because most of the items used in daily life are imported with high transportation costs involved. Monopoly in some business sectors also causes higher profit and further raising of prices. For example (as of January 2010) the approximate prices of petrol is US$1.10 per litre, electricity price is US$0.33 per unit. A domestic gas bottle cylinder is over US$20. Rent for average family lodging is US$500 per month in safer urban locations and personal income tax, which is 33.33% of total taxable income makes the cost of living higher still.

Halal Restaurants

Guyanese food, like the entire country, is a creole fusion.

If there's a dominant cuisine, it is dishes influenced by the Indian subcontinent that have been localized. The most prominent of these are the curries, especially Chicken, Beef, beef, pumpkin and aubergine. Larger roti shops and those by the sea will have shrimp, crab and other seafoods. Curries are traditionally served with roti, an Indian bread or Rice.

The national dish of Guyana is pepperpot, a slow cooked stew of Beef, red peppers (capsicum), cinnamon and casareep. It is dark in colour and strongly flavoured and usually reserved for special occasions such as Christmas, but you can find restaurants in Georgetown serving the dish all year round. Pepperpot is enjoyed with plain white bread or roti.

Georgetown has a greater variety of food options than elsewhere in the nation, which include a couple of Indian food restaurants. In smaller towns and there may only be restaurants serving a creole menu of a few dishes, which almost always includes a Curries or two and a Noodles dish.

In jungle lodges and the food can be limited to tinned goods and Rice, along with whatever can be caught or grown locally.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Guyana

Guyana - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Guyana, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Guyana. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Guyana and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Guyana. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Guyana. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Guyana: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Guyana.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Guyana: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Guyana, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Guyana.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Guyana, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Guyana, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Guyana and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Guyana, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Guyana, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Guyana without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Guyana is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Guyana.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Guyana is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Guyana, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Guyana Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Guyana

eHalal Group Guyana is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Guyana. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Guyana.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Guyana ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Guyana. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Guyana, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Guyana are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Georgetown has far and away the biggest range of options, but here there are a number of problems. None of the "luxury" options in the capital - primarily the Pegasus and the Princess, have the polish or charm to justify the hundreds of US dollars they charge. On the other end of the scale are a number of tiny guesthouses and pay-by-the-hour places with lower prices. The only "backpacker" option is the Tropicana Hostel, which unfortunately is above a club with the slogan "All Nite Long": it's true. There are some good options in Georgetown, especially at the three and four star level, including the colonial option Cara Lodge and the Herdmanston Lodge. The rising Chinese and Brazilian populations in town may lead to better options.

In the interior there are some amazing jungle lodges and camps, including those at the ranches and the south and the community-supported ecolodges in the middle of the nation. Other developing options are community supported huts in Amerindian towns on the Linden-Lethm road.

The adventurous could try to get by with a hammock and paying small fees to hang it up in a benab. This isn't an option in Georgetown and will involve some planning ahead, lots of bug spray and cunning to accomplish.

Some small towns have basic guesthouses, which may have fans, mosquito nets or other amenities.

Study in Guyana

The official language of Guyana is English, so there won't be a language barrier problem with native speakers. That said and there are few education and learning opportunities in the nation.

Education is free, but limited. There is only one university and the University of Guyana, with two campuses at Tain and Turkeyen.

Stay Safe

Georgetown is notorious for petty street crime. Do not walk alone at night, or even in the day, unless you know the area well. Areas such as the Tiger Bay area east of Main Street and the entire southeastern part of the city including Albouystown and Ruimveldt are traditional high crime areas but one can be relatively safe in groups and with native escorts. Police are unlikely to help you unless they see the crime in action. Be sensible about wearing jewellery. Exercise common sense.

The interior regions with the breath-taking waterfalls and the beautiful rainforests and mountains are safe. Many rural areas around the nation are filled with a friendly atmosphere and are safe. Crime is commonly directed at tourists, so don't feel intimidated. Just be sensible about the company you keep, where you go and how you behave.

Medical Issues in Guyana

Do not drink the tap water, unless you want to spend a great part of your vacation on the toilet. Bottled water is readily available in a variety of brands.

Before travelling to Guyana, it is a good idea to receive anti-malarial medications from your health care provider, as malaria is widespread throughout most of the nation.

Yellow fever is endemic to this area; monkeys are a reservoir, but you can catch it even in cities. Be sure to get immunized before you leave, and take Mosquitoes|mosquito repellent with you. Also be careful of malaria and dengue fever in the interior.

Although not required, it is recommended that travellers receive vaccination against Typhoid fever within 2-4 weeks prior to arriving in Guyana.

The country's largest hospital is the Georgetown Public Hospital and is in the capital. Facilities here are basic, even though it is a tertiary referral centre. Disposal of 'sharps' (needles, etc.) is improving but needs to get better, given the nation's growing AIDS/HIV prevalence at 2.5% of adults or 1 in 40. Practice safe sex as well.

You are better off using the private facilities at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital near the U.S. Embassy or the Medical Arts Centre on Thomas Street. While not first rate and these facilities are far superior to GPH, trainings basic hygienic standards and rooms are not overcrowded. There are also other private hospitals

Local Customs in Guyana

Guyanese people do not wear shoes in their homes and expect visitors to do the same.

Telecommunications in Guyana

• Police +592 226 2487 emergency - 911
• Fire +592 226 2411 emergency - 912
• Ambulance Service emergency - 913
• Cheddi Jagan International Airport +592 261 2245
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs +592 226 1606
• Ministry of Tourism Industry & Commerce +592 226 2392
• Guyana Telephone & Telegraph +592 225 1315
• Licence Revenue Office +592 223 5501

Travel Next

• Brazil - Access to Brazil is via Lethem. There are Interserv buses - get the schedule at the Interserv Bus Office on Charlotte Street in central Georgetown. Typically and the buses leave late at night. Another option are shuttle vanes that ply the Georgetown-Lethem road, although the lack of paved road beyond Linden means that the trip will probably need to be broken up overnight.
• Suriname can be visited via shuttle vanes and a ferry, or by a short Flights from Cheddi Jagan Temeri International airport or Ogle airport.
• Trinidad and the rest of the Lesser Antilles is a short flight away via Caribbean Airlines or LIAT.
• Venezuela to the West has no direct road connection. Your best options would be to travel overland via Brazil or fly via Curaçao or Aruba.

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