Located on South America's north coast, this colonial city has wooden Dutch and British architecture, a lively Stabroek Market, and the tallest wooden church in the world.
Georgetown, the capital of Guyana, sits at the mouth of the Demerara River on the Atlantic coast. You'll find 19th-century wooden buildings throughout the city, from the 43-meter-high St. George's Cathedral to the iron-framed Stabroek Market with its prominent clock tower. While many travelers pass through on their way to Kaieteur Falls, spend time walking the tree-lined avenues, exploring the local markets, and stopping at traditional rum shops.
Getting Around Georgetown
Take taxis to move through Georgetown - look for registered cars with yellow number plates. Minibuses connect different parts of the city and run to the airport, with bus #42 going from the airport to Timeri bus park near Stabroek Market. The airport taxi ride takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Weather and Climate in Georgetown
Georgetown's tropical rainforest climate keeps temperatures steady year-round, reaching 30°C during the day and dropping to 23°C at night. Rain falls throughout the year, with May through July seeing the heaviest downpours. Plan your walking tours during February-March or September-October when rainfall typically decreases.
Colonial Architecture
Wooden buildings from the 1800s stand on brick pillars throughout Georgetown, reflecting both Dutch and British building methods. Walk down Main Street to see preserved structures with detailed wooden fretwork and shuttered windows. St. George's Anglican Cathedral rises 43 meters high - the tallest wooden church in the world. The iron and steel clock tower of Stabroek Market serves as a landmark in the commercial district.
Markets and Shopping
Local craftsmen create jewelry using Guyanese gold in the workshops along Regent Street. Inside Stabroek Market, follow your nose to different sections selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and local spices. Watch goldsmiths at work in Royal Jewel House and Kings Jewellery World as they create both traditional and modern designs.
Safety Considerations
Street crime occurs in Georgetown, particularly in crowded areas like markets and on public transport. Avoid Tiger Bay, Albouystown, and south Georgetown, which have higher crime rates. Use registered taxis, especially after dark. Store valuables in your hotel safe and stay alert in public areas.
Day Trips from Georgetown
Take a flight to see Kaieteur Falls in Kaieteur National Park, where water plunges 226 meters into the rainforest. Visit Victoria village, 20 kilometers east of Georgetown, to see post-emancipation buildings and monuments. The surrounding landscape changes from sugar cane fields to swamps and open savannah.
Food and Drink
Georgetown's cooking combines Caribbean and South American influences. Visit the El Dorado and X-tra Mature distilleries to learn about their rum aging process, which can last 5 to 25 years. Walk down Sheriff Street to find small rum shops where you can taste local spirits and chat with residents. This area also has many restaurants serving both Guyanese and international food.
