Guyana
South America • GUY
Last updated: October 13, 2026
Guyana is an untamed South American treasure, renowned for its incredible biodiversity, vast rainforests, and unique blend of Caribbean and South American cultures. It is the ideal destination for eco-tourists and adventurers looking to explore pristine natural landscapes and the majestic Kaieteur Falls.
Visa Requirements
Citizens from many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and EU member states, do not require a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Kaieteur Falls: One of the world's most powerful single-drop waterfalls, located deep within the pristine Kaieteur National Park.
Baganara Island: A beautiful resort island in the Essequibo River perfect for relaxation, water sports, and nature viewing.
St. George's Cathedral: One of the tallest wooden structures in the world, this iconic cathedral is a landmark in the capital city of Georgetown.
Shell Beach: A famous nesting site for endangered sea turtles that offers a rare opportunity to observe wildlife in a remote coastal setting.
Iwokrama Forest: A vast, protected tropical rainforest that provides exceptional opportunities for canopy walks and spotting exotic wildlife like jaguars and harpy eagles.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural villages, keeping shoulders and knees covered.
Greet locals with a friendly hello or a handshake, as Guyanese culture is generally warm and hospitable.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially those in indigenous communities.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in restaurants, though rounding up the bill is a common practice.
Remove your shoes before entering someone's home, as this is a standard sign of respect.
Safety Tips
Avoid walking alone at night in Georgetown, especially in secluded areas or near the seawall.
Keep your valuables, such as passports and extra cash, in a hotel safe rather than carrying them around.
Use only registered taxis arranged by your hotel or a reputable company instead of hailing random vehicles.
Stay hydrated and use insect repellent frequently to protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses.
Stick to marked trails when exploring the rainforest and consider hiring a certified local guide for deeper excursions.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers aged 1 year or older.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Check that you are up to date on routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19 while traveling.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccines before traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Make sure vaccinations are current, especially if traveling with children.
View sourceMalaria prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent malaria in areas where the disease is present.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel for protection against preventable diseases.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Typhoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may be exposed to blood or body fluids.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceMalaria prevention
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to certain areas due to malaria risk.
Consult with a healthcare provider about appropriate prophylaxis.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider if you plan to visit remote areas or involve in outdoor activities.
Vaccination is suggested for those at high risk.
View sourceTravel insurance
Source: CDC
Highly recommended for all travelers to cover health care costs.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce risk of insect-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika virus.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19 transmission.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for those who will be involved in outdoor activities that could expose them to animals.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to risk of hepatitis A transmission.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
Malaria is present in Guyana; preventive measures should be taken.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Necessary to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses such as traveler's diarrhea.
Eat only hot, cooked foods; drink bottled, boiled, or chemically treated water.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Precautions are necessary to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses (e.g., eat only fully cooked food, drink bottled or boiled water).
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes (e.g., Zika, Dengue, Malaria) by using EPA-registered insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Malaria prophylaxis (if visiting rural areas)
Source: CDC
Recommended for areas with malaria transmission, especially rural regions.
Consider Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine.
View sourceChikungunya prevention
Source: CDC
Due to risk of chikungunya virus from mosquito bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Especially if engaging in activities that could expose you to body fluids.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities like caving or those who may have direct contact with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you may have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or have medical/dental procedures.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travel to areas with malaria risk, consult with healthcare provider for specific medications.
Options include Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceYellow Fever (vaccination)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers aged 9 months or older going to areas with risk of yellow fever transmission in Guyana.
Check specific regional recommendations within the country.
View sourceRisk Area: Rural and interior regions, particularly in areas where mining and forestry are common.
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas and interior regions of Guyana
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Interior regions of Guyana (e.g., Potaro-Siparuni, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo)
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Interior regions of Guyana, particularly in forested areas
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas below 2000m
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country except coastal areas and Georgetown
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source