Sightseeing in Georgetown in Guyana - what to see. Complete travel guide

Georgetown is situated in the area where the Demerara River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. This is the capital of Guyana. The city is situated in a picturesque area that looks very attractive thanks to lush tropical forests that surround it. The “green zone” is home to many interesting “inhabitants” – rare species of animals. There are many rare birds that also live here. Some of the indigenous animals are endangered species, and so they are under the protection of the government. Numerous tourists often visit this region in order to enjoy fishing in local waters, explore almost impassable jungles or take a river cruise in a charming ship.

Colonists from the Netherlands founded Georgetown in 1781. They called this new settlement Stabroek or “the pond that is always filled with water”. Three years later, the town officially became the center of the Dutch colony in South America. The beginning of the 20th century drastically changed the history of the city because the British Empire officially became the ruler in this area after a merciless battle between the Netherlands and the UK. This is when the city got a new name – Georgetown – after King George III. The city also became the residence of the British governor. When several British colonies were merged into one, Georgetown became the capital of British Guyana.

Only when the city became a capital, it started developing quickly. New roads connected different parts of the city, and plantations in the neighborhoods became several times larger. However, local people didn’t stop their attempts to become independent and finally end the slave trade. After numerous rebellions and civil unrest, the British government had no other thing to do but to satisfy some of the local people’s claims. Starting from this moment, workers were granted more rights. In the 60s of the 20th century, Guyana finally became independent. Georgetown became the capital of the country. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Starting your acquaintance with Georgetown, don’t forget to pay the attention to the national culinary traditions. Local cuisine might taste quite piquant for any tourist especially if you decide to try a meat dish. As American Indians have a big share in the total population of the region, it is typical to use a lot of curry in local food. This spice adds a strong flavor and unforgettable taste to the dishes. It is also typical to eat rice together with peas in the region. Almost no meal here is possible without meat. Goat meat and mutton are very popular here. That being said, chicken is the most popular choice for meat dishes.

The coast of Guyana almost has no separations. There are many dams and protective constructions along the coast. They protect the city from floods. There are almost no beaches in Georgetown because since the British have left this land, the city’s municipal structures haven’t performed well. There is a problem with the garbage in the city. It might also be problematic to swim in the ocean; the waterfront is quite dirty because there is much household waste and no one cleans it. The city’s location is one more reason for the absence of beaches. Georgetown is located in a swampy area with numerous rivers. Mud and dirt from the rivers are flushed to the coastal area.

If you still decide to spend your vacation in Georgetown, it is better to dedicate more time to visiting local landmarks. The first attraction that is definitely worth visiting is situated in the countryside. This is Rappu Falls, a gorgeous waterfall on the Essequibo River. This waterfall is located in the area where this river meets the Rupununi River. The scenery is truly mesmerizing because the waterfall is situated at a height of 103 meters above sea level. Together with the surrounding dense jungles, the view of the falling water is so enchanting that it is easy to spend hours listening to the falling water and watching how waves crush into the river surface.

Do you want to see a true floral paradise? In this case, visit the botanical garden and zoo in Georgetown. The zoo is open in the territory of the garden and was established in the 50s of the 20th century. Until that moment, there was only a garden here. The garden is older – it opened in 1895. The total area of the “green city” is almost forty-nine hectares. This is the most picturesque place in Georgetown. Here, visitors can see beautiful ponds with elegant lilies. The zoo is home to various animals and birds, including the manatee and harpy eagles.

Georgetown in Guyana has its own airport that regularly accommodates flights from other countries in South and North America, including the United States, Canada, and Brazil. There also flights from Europe, for example, from the United Kingdom. Besides international flights, the nearest Caribbean countries offer flights to Guyana. The total length of a flight from, let’s say, London, is roughly eight hours. Having arrived at Georgetown Airport, tourists can use a taxi or minibus to get to the city center.