Guyana was my country #86 in South America. As some of you may be aware, I am trying to visit all the UN-recognised countries so, appreciate the support in sharing my blog posts or socials. This blog covers Solo female travel to Georgetown Guyana, ie – how to got there, where to stay in Georgetown, Guayana and everything else that may help you.
Solo traveling especially Solo female travel is a growing trend, empowering women to explore the world on their own terms and allowing us to step out of our comfort zones, build confidence, and create meaningful experiences. I hope that you will experience these things on your solo female travel to Georgetown, Guyana. And if you are not a female, and reading this blog, I still wish the same for you. Now let’s get to it.
Georgetown is the capital city of Guyana, located on the northern coast of South America. Their history, nature, and food were interesting to me. The city is home to a diverse population, with influences from African, Indian, European, and Indigenous cultures. The capital city is also the country’s main urban center, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.
I didn’t know what to expect before getting there and throughout my travels to South America I had only met 1 couple who had visited Guyana on their trip. Their feedback was positive but being solo I was still concerned about my safety. Below I share some safety tips but first, here are some tips for your solo female travel to Georgetown, Guyana.
Solo travel to Georgetown Guyana
1. How to get to Georgetown, Guyana?
By plane: Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO) is the main airport serving Georgetown, with direct flights from several international destinations. I flew from Trinidad & Tobago to Georgetown via Caribean Airlines.
By taxi: Taxis are available at the airport for transportation to Georgetown. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and negotiate the fare beforehand. Uber doesn’t work & I bought an airport transfer from Get Your Guide which didn’t turn up but they refunded me. Taxi to town cost about 10,000 Guyana Dollars (GYD) but a local offered me a lift. It was about 6 AM & he had just dropped someone at the airport. My gut had positive vibes from him after talking a few minutes so I agreed although he got pulled over by a cop halfway which made me feel uncomfortable. So, I pulled my bags out of his car & tried hailing a taxi but with no luck. He had to bribe the cop he said & offered to take pictures of his ID & license to reassure me so that was helpful. When he dropped me I offered to pay but he declined, didn’t exchange numbers or anything said he just wanted to help! What a warm welcome to Georgetown, Guyana!
By ferry: I didn’t take a ferry so please research this deeper but I was advised by the locals that ferries operate between Guyana and neighboring countries like Suriname and Brazil, offering an alternative way to reach Georgetown for those traveling overland. example: The Canawaima Ferry Service
2. How to get a local SIM card in Georgetown, Guyana?
Local SIM cards can be purchased at the airport but I arrived at 6 AM so no shops were opened. I thought my Airbnb WIFI should be good enough as the host had advised they have 150+ Mbps but when I opened my laptop for a meeting I realized it was 0.30 Mbps upload. So, running any meetings or video calls was just impossible and the host didn’t offer any solution even when I suggested a mobile roaming for an hour. It was indeed my first bad Airbnb experience but glad I was checking out the day later so I went to the shopping city mall in Regent Street in town and bought my own mobile sim with data. In Google Maps it’s called “Cellular Plused” which is a Digicel shop, the process was easy.
You’ll need to provide identification to register the SIM card. Bring your passport & cash. Digicel had a 2GB deal for 2000 GYD including a sim. Having my own data was good so I didn’t check the speed thereafter.
Alternatively, you could buy GTT+ (formerly Cellink Plus, by GT&T) data but based on local recommendations and personal experience, Digiel has way better coverage than GTT or any other networks in Guyana.
3. How to get around Georgetown?
Public transportation: Georgetown has a public bus system and minibusses that travel to various parts of the city. Fares are affordable, but make sure to ask before getting in as routes and schedules can be unpredictable. I used minibus 44 from Stabroek market to my accommodation twice and it was an easy ride that cost 200 GYD.
Taxis: Taxis are available in Georgetown but it is a bit hard to tell which one is a taxi apart from the distinct yellow ones because I found out the not-yellow colors ones also work as taxies. Best to book through hotels and taxi services although when you are in town, you will find people offer their taxi service on the streets too. If you have a good gut feeling get their number and WhatsApp them later to fix the price. I did this and the fare difference between the one from the street and the prebooked via hotel was GYD 3000 difference. Either way, it’s recommended to agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Walking: Georgetown’s city center is a little bit spread out but is pedestrian-friendly, making walking a convenient way to explore the area. However, it’s important to be cautious of traffic and follow local safety guidelines. For example: one day I walked from Sheriff Street to Stabroek market, stopping at things to see on the way. Glad it wasn’t a hot day!
Tourist Shuttles: In tourist areas, you may find shuttle services that cater to travelers, making it easier to reach popular attractions.
4. Useful Apps in Georgetown:
- Google Maps: You can download offline maps of places you are going to beforehand
- Guyana Taxi: A local taxi-hailing app that can help you find reliable transportation in Georgetown.
- WhatsApp: Widely used in Guyana for communication, including contacting local businesses, accommodations, or tour operators.
- Get your guide: For tours, I recommend using get your guide app and walking tours available in most places
- Accommodation: Check booking.com for options
5. Is Georgetown Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
I felt safe in Georgetown apart from 1 incident at the Bourda market where the shopkeeper was rude, and almost violent when I refused to buy. I had only asked for the price of a coconut and if they would open it for me as I wanted to drink it there. The man I asked immediately cracked open the coconut on the ground so all the coconut juice was on the street! It was a misunderstanding as I wanted to drink it and while I explained and was walking away, the woman who was running the shop came at me yelling in my face and held my hand like a hostage shouting that I must buy it! The man was laughing because we misunderstood each other but the woman was off! He was nice enough to give her some money to calm her down (I initially thought they were both running the shop but it seemed he was just another buyer) as she was acting like she was almost going to hit me if I didn’t pay for that coconut!
Apart from that, petty crime is common I heard but generally, Guyana is safe for solo female travelers, but it’s important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions.
- Use Reputable Accommodations: Choose well-reviewed and reputable accommodations for your stay. This can enhance your safety and provide a reliable home base during your trip.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Like in any destination, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings. Be cautious when walking alone at night and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.
- Use Licensed Transportation: When using taxis or ride-sharing apps, ensure you’re using licensed and well-established services. (If not, as shared above ask for their ID to take pictures) Always negotiate the fare or use the meter before starting your journey.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings, such as passports, money, and electronics, secure in your accommodation, or use a money belt/small bag while on the go, and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Local Contacts: Establish local contacts or friendships if possible. Locals can provide valuable insights and assistance during your trip.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. This helps you to blend in and fosters positive interactions.
- Learn Some Local Phrases: If you are fluent in English it will be easy in Guyana because it is the only South American country with English as the official language. That said, some locals speak Guyanese Creole or Creolese (an English-based Creole with African, Indian, and Amerindian syntax).
- Dealing with harassment or unwanted attention: If you experience harassment or unwanted attention, remain calm and assertive. Politely but firmly decline any unwanted advances and remove yourself from the situation if necessary. Seek help from local authorities or trusted individuals if you feel unsafe.
6. Good to know
Currency = Guyana Dollar (GYD)
Capital City = Georgetown
Official Language: English
Population: 819,594, a 0.71% increase from 2023
Time zone: GMT -4
Driving side: Left, Guyana, and Suriname are the only countries in South America to drive on the left
Calling code: +592
7. Where to stay in Georgetown?
For accommodation, I recommend using booking.com and sorting with price, then consider the ones with highest reviews plus within 1km of center/old town. Below I have researched and linked the best ones with this filter (at the time of writing)
For tours, I recommend using get your guide and walking tours available in most places
There are several accommodation options in Georgetown to suit different budgets and preferences. However when I looked up Booking & Hostel World I didn’t fancy any places there. so I stayed at a Airbnb. It was close to the airport and about 30 mins from town by taxi.
Hotels: Georgetown has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts, offering comfortable accommodations and amenities. For example: Pegasus Hotel Guyana: A luxury hotel with modern amenities, including a pool, spa, and multiple dining options, or Kanuku Suites: A boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and personalized service, located near Georgetown’s main attractions.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a popular choice for budget travelers, offering affordable and often cozy accommodations with a more personal touch. Such as Cara Lodge: A historic hotel located in the heart of Georgetown, offering colonial-style accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere.
Hostels: Hostels are a great option for solo travelers looking to meet other travelers and save money on accommodations although I didn’t find any in Georgetown.
8. Packing essentials for a solo female traveler
- Lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and its attractions.
- A small backpack or daypack for carrying essentials during day trips.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the sun.
- Insect repellent for protection against mosquitoes and other bugs.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Travel documents, including your passport, travel insurance information, and any necessary visas or permits.
- A basic first-aid kit with essential medications and supplies.
9. Health and more safety tips
- Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before traveling to Georgetown.
- Consider getting vaccinated for yellow fever, as it is a risk in Guyana. I got mine in 2021 before I went to South America but nowhere in South or Central America asked for it except when boarding a plane for Guyana.
- Practice good hygiene, including washing your hands frequently and using hand sanitizer.
- Be cautious of the local water and only drink bottled or purified water.
- Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest medical facilities in case of emergency.
- Purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses or emergencies.
10. When is the Best Time to Visit Georgetown:
The best time to visit Georgetown is during the dry season, which runs from mid-September to mid-November and mid-January to mid-March. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and dry, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
The wet season, from mid-March to mid-May and mid-November to mid-January, can bring heavy rainfall and humid conditions, which may limit outdoor activities.
11. How Many Days in Georgetown is Enough:
A stay of 3-4 days is typically enough to explore the main attractions in Georgetown, including its historic sites, museums, and markets. If you’re interested in eco-tourism or outdoor adventures, you may want to either time in right for Kaieteur Falls (be there on the weekend) or extend your stay to a week or more to explore the interior or surrounding areas and natural attractions. Ultimately, the ideal length of stay in Georgetown depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend exploring the city and its surroundings.
12. Things to Do in Georgetown
A. Exploring the cultural and historical sites
– Take a stroll along the St. George’s Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden churches in the world.
– Explore the Guyana National Museum, which showcases the country’s history and culture through exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and natural history.
– Check out the nearby Stabroek Market a bustling market selling local produce and crafts.
– Walk to the nearby Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
B. Museums & Gardens
– Visit the Bourda Market
– Visit the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology to learn about the Indigenous peoples of Guyana and their cultural heritage.
– Visit the Botanical Gardens and the nearby Georgetown Zoo to see a collection of local and exotic animals, as well as a wide variety of plant species.
– I love the Guyana sign or Guyana Marine Turtle monument
– Go for sunsets at the Sea wall
C. Enjoying the local cuisine
– Sample traditional Guyanese dishes such as pepperpot, a spicy meat stew, and cook-up rice, a flavorful rice and beans dish.
– Try the local snacks and street food, such as pholourie (fried dough balls) and chowmein (stir-fried noodles).
– Some of the cafes and restaurants I went to were – Oasis Cafe, The New Thriving Restaurant, Bertha and Macky Restaurant, Beacon Cafe, Cafe Bellvana, Maharaj Indian Restaurant, Amici, and German’s.
D. Participating in eco-friendly tours and activities
– Take a boat tour to the nearby Mahaica or Demerara River to see Guyana’s diverse wildlife, including caimans, giant river otters, and a variety of bird species.
– Explore the nearby rainforests and savannas on a guided eco-tour, where you can learn about the region’s unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.
– If you are there on the weekend, book a Kaieteur Waterfalls tour direct with Roraima Airlines.
Traveling solo in Georgetown offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a diverse and vibrant culture, surrounded by friendly locals and stunning landscapes. – Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic sites, sampling its delicious cuisine, or embarking on eco-friendly adventures, solo travel in Georgetown is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget. I hope my travel experience gave you an insight into what to expect when you solo female travel to Georgetown, Guyana.
Travel Guyana safe/
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