Is Guyana Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from a Frequent Visitor - Xplrverse

The Truth About Safety in Guyana – My Personal Experience

The first time I landed at Cheddi Jagan International Airport near Georgetown, Guyana’s capital, I was admittedly nervous. Online forums had painted a concerning picture, and the US State Department’s Level 2 advisory (“Exercise Increased Caution”) had me second-guessing my decision. Fast forward five visits later, and I’ve developed a much more nuanced understanding of safety in this spectacular South American country.

During my most recent trip in late 2024, I found myself alone in a water taxi crossing the mighty Essequibo River at sunset, chatting with the boat operator about how his village had changed over the years. The golden light reflected off the water, and I realized how far I’d come from that anxious first-timer who wouldn’t even venture out after dark.

Let me be clear: Guyana isn’t without risks—no destination is. But the reality I’ve experienced repeatedly is vastly different from the sometimes alarming perceptions that exist online. This guide aims to provide you with the honest, unvarnished truth about safety in Guyana in 2025, based on my multiple visits and extensive travels throughout the country.

Guyana Safety Overview: The Big Picture

Before diving into specifics, let’s establish some context. Guyana is a developing nation of about 790,000 people, with most of its population concentrated along the coastal regions, particularly around Georgetown. The vast interior is sparsely populated but home to incredible biodiversity, indigenous communities, and some of the most pristine rainforests on the planet.

In terms of safety, here’s what you need to know at a glance:

Safety Aspect	Risk Level	Notes
Violent Crime	Moderate	Primarily in parts of Georgetown
Petty Theft	Moderate to High	Especially in crowded areas and markets
Road Safety	Moderate to High Risk	Poor road conditions; erratic driving habits
Natural Disasters	Low	Flooding in coastal areas during rainy season
Health Risks	Moderate	Malaria in interior regions; limited healthcare facilities
Political Stability	Generally Stable	Occasional protests, especially after elections

Crime in Guyana: Separating Facts from Fear

When researching safety in Guyana, you’ll likely encounter concerning crime statistics. While these shouldn’t be dismissed, they require context.

Georgetown: Where Most Crime Occurs

The majority of serious crime in Guyana happens in specific areas of Georgetown, particularly:

Tiger Bay: A neighborhood best avoided, especially after dark
Albouystown: Known for higher crime rates
Stabroek Market area: Safe to visit during daylight hours but requires vigilance against pickpocketing

During my visits, I’ve walked through much of Georgetown during daylight hours without incident. The colonial wooden architecture is stunning, and places like Main Street, the Botanical Gardens, and the National Museum are perfectly safe tourist destinations.

Safety Tip: I’ve found that most locals will actually warn you if you’re heading toward an area that might be unsafe. When a taxi driver told me “you don’t want to go there, boss” as I mentioned an interest in photographing a certain area of the city, I took his advice seriously.

Crime Statistics: The Reality in 2025

According to the latest data from the Guyana Police Force, serious crimes decreased by approximately 12% between 2023 and 2024. The government has increased police presence in tourist areas, and the establishment of a Tourism and Hospitality Police Unit in 2023 has been particularly effective.

Common crimes affecting tourists include:

Pickpocketing – Especially in markets and bus parks
Credit card fraud – I always use cash at smaller establishments
Opportunistic theft – Left my phone on a café table once (never again!)
Occasional scams – Particularly unofficial “tour guides” and inflated taxi fares

Interior Regions: Generally Safer

Contrary to what some might expect, Guyana’s interior regions like Rupununi, Lethem, and areas around Kaieteur Falls tend to have significantly lower crime rates than Georgetown. The communities are smaller, more close-knit, and often indigenous villages where serious crime is rare.

In places like Iwokrama and Surama, I’ve felt completely at ease walking alone even after nightfall. The biggest danger in these regions tends to be natural hazards rather than human threats.

Health Safety Concerns for Travelers

Beyond crime, health safety is perhaps the most important consideration when traveling to Guyana.

Required and Recommended Vaccinations

As of 2025, the following health precautions are recommended:

Yellow Fever: Required for entry if coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission
Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for all travelers
Typhoid: Particularly important if you’ll be visiting smaller towns or rural areas
COVID-19: While no longer required for entry, vaccination is still recommended

The CDC page on Guyana always has the most up-to-date information.

Malaria and Other Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Malaria exists in Guyana, particularly in the interior regions. During my trip to Iwokrama in 2023, I took prescribed antimalarial medication (Malarone), and I’m glad I did. The mosquitoes along the river were relentless at dusk!

Other mosquito-borne diseases present include:

Dengue fever
Chikungunya
Zika virus (though cases have decreased significantly)

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: Rather than buying expensive insect repellent at home and lugging it with you, purchase locally made “Bush Rum” mosquito repellent in Georgetown pharmacies for about 1,500 GYD ($7 USD). It’s effective, contains natural ingredients like citronella, and supports local businesses. I’ve used it on every trip!

Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare in Guyana is limited compared to North America or Europe:

Georgetown Public Hospital: The main public facility, adequate for basic care
Woodlands Hospital: Private hospital in Georgetown with better facilities
Mercy Hospital: Another private option in the capital
Rural areas: Very limited healthcare options; serious conditions require evacuation

On my second trip, I came down with a severe stomach bug in Lethem, near the Brazil border. The local health center could only provide basic rehydration. I had to hire a driver to take me back to Georgetown (a 12-hour journey) for proper treatment. Learn from my mistake: comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is absolutely essential.

Transportation Safety in Guyana

Getting around Guyana presents its own set of safety challenges that I’ve learned to navigate over multiple visits.

Road Conditions and Driving

Driving in Guyana can be hazardous for several reasons:

Roads outside Georgetown are often unpaved and poorly maintained
The main coastal highway is narrow with limited shoulders
Local driving habits can be erratic with minimal adherence to traffic rules
Livestock (especially cows) often wander onto roads
Heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding and make dirt roads impassable

The journey from Georgetown to Lethem is particularly notorious. This 350-mile road through the rainforest can take 12-20 hours depending on conditions. I’ve done it twice, and while the scenery is incredible, I wouldn’t recommend it to inexperienced travelers. During the rainy season (May-August), parts of the road can become completely impassable.

“Slow, slow, meh friend” (take it easy, my friend) is a common Guyanese expression I’ve heard when discussing travel in the interior, and it’s sound advice!

Taxis and Public Transportation

In Georgetown and other cities, transportation options include:

Registered taxis: Look for yellow license plates beginning with ‘H’
Minibuses: Color-coded by route, inexpensive but often overcrowded
Hired drivers: Best option for longer journeys

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Instead of calling a taxi through your hotel (which usually adds a 100% markup), use the locally popular “Drop” app (Guyana’s equivalent to Uber). It’s safe, reliable, and about 40% cheaper than hotel-arranged taxis. I’ve used it extensively in Georgetown with zero issues.

River and Air Travel

Given Guyana’s difficult road conditions, many interior locations are accessed by:

Small aircraft: Trans Guyana Airways and other carriers serve interior airstrips
Boats: Various river services range from speedboats to larger passenger vessels

I’ve taken small 8-seater planes to Kaieteur Falls and boats along both the Essequibo and Demerara rivers. While these experiences were among the highlights of my trips, they come with inherent risks.

Always choose reputable operators, wear life jackets on boats (even if locals don’t), and be prepared for flight cancellations due to weather. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority maintains oversight of air carriers.

Women’s Safety in Guyana

As a woman who has traveled solo in Guyana multiple times, I feel this deserves its own section. While I’ve generally felt safe, I’ve also experienced frequent catcalling in urban areas and have adapted my behavior accordingly.

Cultural Context

Guyana has a somewhat conservative culture with traditional gender roles still prevalent. Women travelers should be aware of:

Street harassment and catcalling, particularly in Georgetown
Unwanted attention, especially if traveling alone
Conservative dress expectations, particularly outside tourist areas

Practical Safety Tips for Women

Based on my experiences, I recommend:

Dressing modestly, especially outside tourist areas (shoulders covered, no short shorts)
Being firm but polite when declining unwanted attention
Using caution when out after dark; I prefer to use taxis rather than walk
Being mindful of alcohol consumption in public places
Considering joining group tours for certain activities rather than going solo

One of my biggest mistakes on my first trip was being too polite when men approached me with unwanted attention. I’ve since learned that a firm “Nah, I good” (No thank you) and continuing to walk is the most effective approach.

Rural and Interior Safety

Some of Guyana’s most incredible experiences are found in its remote interior regions. These areas have different safety considerations than urban centers.

Indigenous Communities and Etiquette

When visiting indigenous villages in regions like Rupununi or North Pakaraimas:

Always get proper permission before visiting
Respect local customs and guidelines
Ask before taking photographs of people or cultural activities
Bring appropriate gifts if staying with communities (school supplies are always appreciated)

In Surama, I learned that it’s customary to speak with the village toshao (chief) upon arrival. When I inadvertently skipped this step, it created an awkward situation that could have been easily avoided.

Wildlife and Environmental Hazards

Guyana’s biodiversity is stunning but comes with certain risks:

Venomous snakes: Including fer-de-lance and bushmaster
Caiman and piranha: Present in many waterways
Jaguars: Rarely seen but present in forest areas
Insects: Beyond mosquitoes, botfly and other parasitic insects exist

During a hike near Iwokrama, our guide pointed out a camouflaged labaria (fer-de-lance) that I would have walked right past. This reinforced for me the importance of hiring knowledgeable local guides when exploring natural areas.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: Rather than booking interior excursions through international tour companies, contact community-owned lodges directly via email or WhatsApp. You’ll save 30-50% while ensuring more money goes to local communities. Surama Eco-Lodge and Rewa Eco-Lodge both offer this option, and they’ll help arrange all logistics from Georgetown.

Political Situation and Border Areas

Guyana’s political landscape and border regions present additional safety considerations for travelers.

Political Stability

Guyana is generally politically stable, but tensions can rise, particularly around elections. The most recent elections in early 2024 proceeded without major incidents, a positive sign for the country’s democratic development.

Occasional protests do occur, primarily in Georgetown. These are typically peaceful but can sometimes disrupt transportation. During my visit in 2022, I encountered a street demonstration near Parliament Building that required a detour but posed no safety threat.

Border Areas: Venezuela, Brazil, and Suriname

Guyana shares borders with three countries, each with distinct safety considerations:

Venezuela border: The ongoing territorial dispute over the Essequibo region (which comprises about 2/3 of Guyana’s territory) creates some tension. While actual conflict is unlikely, I avoid the immediate border area.
Brazil border: Generally safe, with Lethem serving as the main crossing point. Brazilian influence is strong here, and you’ll hear Portuguese alongside English and Creolese.
Suriname border: Accessed via ferry crossing at Moleson Creek. Generally safe but with limited facilities.

If you’re planning to cross any border, research the current situation thoroughly. Requirements can change frequently, and some crossings may close temporarily due to weather or political situations.

Digital Safety and Communications

Staying connected and protecting your digital information is an often-overlooked aspect of travel safety.

Internet Access and Cell Coverage

Connectivity in Guyana varies dramatically by location:

Georgetown: Reliable 4G coverage and WiFi in most hotels and restaurants
Coastal towns: Generally good cellular coverage but variable internet speeds
Interior: Very limited or no service in many areas

The two main providers are GTT and Digicel. I typically purchase a Digicel SIM card upon arrival at the airport (about 1,000 GYD plus credit) as I’ve found their coverage slightly better in rural areas.

In the North Rupununi, I was surprised to find that certain hilltops had cellular service while valleys had none. Locals know exactly which spots to visit to make calls!

Financial and Data Security

Digital security considerations include:

ATM skimming occurs occasionally; use ATMs attached to major banks
Public WiFi networks may not be secure; use a VPN when possible
Credit card fraud happens; I keep a separate low-limit card for transactions

One challenge I faced was finding working ATMs outside of Georgetown. Banks in Bartica and Lethem sometimes run out of cash or experience network issues. I now always carry enough cash (secured in multiple locations on my person and in luggage) to last until I return to the capital.

Navigating Cultural Differences Safely

Understanding Guyana’s unique culture helps avoid misunderstandings that could potentially lead to unsafe situations.

Language and Communication

While English is the official language, Guyanese Creolese can be challenging to understand initially. Some useful phrases include:

“Wha gwan?” – How are you?/What’s happening?
“Me a go” – I’m leaving
“Limin'” – Hanging out/relaxing

Learning even basic Creolese phrases has opened doors for me and often brought smiles from locals surprised at my efforts.

Interacting with Locals

Guyanese people are generally friendly and helpful, but cultural norms differ from Western countries:

Direct questions may be considered rude; build rapport before asking for help
Patience is essential; things often move at a slower pace
Refusing food or drink when offered can sometimes be seen as offensive

I once made the mistake of rushing a transaction at a small shop in New Amsterdam, checking my watch repeatedly as the shopkeeper chatted with another customer. The experience taught me that building relationships is valued over efficiency and rushing is considered impolite.

Practical Safety Tips from My Experience

After five visits to Guyana, I’ve developed some practical habits that have served me well:

Before You Go

Register with your country’s embassy or consular service (like the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for US citizens)
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
Make copies of important documents (passport, insurance, etc.)
Research current conditions via expat forums and recent traveler reports

What to Pack for Safety

First aid kit with basic medications and supplies
Insect repellent with DEET (for initial use before buying local alternatives)
Water purification tablets or filter
Flashlight or headlamp (power outages are common)
Money belt or hidden pouch

Daily Safety Habits

Small behaviors that have kept me safe include:

Using a rubber doorstop in hotel rooms for added security
Carrying a photocopy of my passport rather than the original when possible
Splitting money between different secure locations on my person
Always arranging transportation back to accommodations before heading out
Sharing my itinerary with someone at home and checking in regularly

One morning in Georgetown, I noticed my taxi driver taking an unfamiliar route. Rather than panicking, I calmly asked about the detour while simultaneously sharing my live location with a contact through WhatsApp. It turned out to be a genuine traffic diversion, but being prepared helped me stay calm.

Sustainability Tip That Saves Money: Rather than buying bottled water throughout your trip, invest in a good quality water filter bottle like Grayl or LifeStraw. You’ll save hundreds of Guyanese dollars over your trip while preventing dozens of plastic bottles from ending up in Guyana’s limited waste management system.

Special Considerations for 2025

Several recent developments impact safety considerations for travelers to Guyana in 2025:

Oil Boom Effects

Guyana’s rapidly expanding oil industry has triggered significant economic changes:

Rising prices, especially in Georgetown
Increasing wealth inequality
Growth in business travel and infrastructure development

The most noticeable change on my recent visit was the dramatic increase in construction in Georgetown and significantly higher hotel prices compared to pre-2020 visits.

Post-Pandemic Adjustments

While COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, the pandemic has left lasting impacts:

Improved health screening at ports of entry
Enhanced cleaning protocols in better hotels and restaurants
Some remote lodges closed permanently, limiting accommodation options

The healthcare system, already stretched thin, faced additional challenges during the pandemic. While conditions have improved, medical facilities outside Georgetown remain limited.

Growing Tourism Infrastructure

On the positive side, Guyana’s tourism infrastructure continues to develop:

New eco-lodges in the interior regions
Improved guide training and certification programs
Better transportation options to popular destinations
The Tourism and Hospitality Police Unit established in 2023

During my 2024 visit, I was impressed by the new visitor center at Iwokrama and the noticeably improved training of guides compared to my first visit years earlier.

Conclusion: Is Guyana Safe for Travelers in 2025?

After multiple visits and thousands of miles traveled throughout Guyana, my honest assessment is this: Guyana is moderately safe for travelers who exercise appropriate caution, do their research, and prepare adequately.

Like many developing nations, Guyana presents a mixed safety picture. Parts of Georgetown require vigilance, healthcare is limited outside the capital, and transportation infrastructure poses challenges. However, violent crime targeting tourists is relatively rare, and the interior regions are generally quite safe.

What Guyana offers in return for these manageable risks is extraordinary: pristine rainforests, incredible biodiversity, powerful waterfalls like Kaieteur (five times the height of Niagara), and cultural experiences that few travelers ever get to witness. The fact that tourism is still developing means you’ll often have spectacular sites entirely to yourself—something increasingly rare in our over-traveled world.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Safe Travel to Guyana

Prepare thoroughly: Research your specific destinations, get appropriate vaccinations, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Plan smart accommodations: Stay in well-reviewed hotels in safer areas of Georgetown (Queenstown, Kingston, or near the US Embassy).
Arrange reliable transportation: Pre-book airport transfers, work with established tour operators, and use the “Drop” app in Georgetown.
Practice everyday vigilance: Be aware of your surroundings, secure valuables, avoid displaying wealth, and limit nighttime activities in unfamiliar areas.
Connect with local resources: Establish contact with your hotel’s security team, save emergency numbers, and consider hiring local guides for exploring.

That strange mix of caution and openness is what traveling in Guyana requires. Stay alert, but don’t let fear prevent you from engaging with local people and culture. Some of my most memorable experiences have come from accepting an invitation to a village festival or chatting with strangers at a rum shop.

Go to Guyana with your eyes open, your wits about you, and your heart ready for adventure. The rewards far outweigh the risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Guyana

Is Georgetown safe for tourists?

Georgetown requires caution but is manageable for informed travelers. Stick to safer neighborhoods like Queenstown and Kingston, avoid walking alone at night, and use registered taxis. The Botanical Gardens, National Museum, and St. George’s Cathedral are all safe to visit during daylight hours.

What areas of Guyana should tourists avoid?

In Georgetown, exercise caution in Tiger Bay, Albouystown, and parts of Stabroek Market area, especially after dark. The immediate border region with Venezuela is best avoided due to ongoing territorial disputes. Otherwise, most tourist destinations in the interior are generally safe.

Is it safe to travel solo in Guyana?

Solo travel in Guyana is possible but requires extra vigilance, particularly for women travelers. I’ve done it multiple times but recommend joining organized tours for venturing into interior regions and exercising caution in urban areas, especially after dark.

Do I need special vaccinations for Guyana?

Yes. Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccinations should be up to date. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for trips to interior regions.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Guyana?

No. Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Guyana. Use bottled water with sealed caps, boil water for at least one minute, or use a reliable water purification system.

How safe are the roads in Guyana?

Road conditions in Guyana are generally poor, with many unpaved roads in rural areas. Driving habits can be erratic, and night driving is particularly dangerous. The interior road to Brazil becomes nearly impassable during heavy rains. I recommend using experienced drivers rather than self-driving.

Is there a risk of natural disasters in Guyana?

The primary natural hazard is flooding, particularly in coastal areas during the rainy seasons (May-June and December-January). Guyana does not experience hurricanes or earthquakes like other parts of the Caribbean.

What’s the best way to handle money safely in Guyana?

The Guyanese dollar (GYD) is the local currency. Bring US dollars to exchange, use ATMs at established banks in Georgetown, and carry smaller bills for daily expenses. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments but carry cash for smaller vendors and rural areas.

How reliable is the internet and cell service for emergency communication?

Cell service is reliable in Georgetown and coastal areas but limited or non-existent in parts of the interior. WiFi is available at most hotels in Georgetown but can be slow. Consider renting a satellite phone for interior journeys if continuous communication is essential.

Is Guyana LGBTQ+ friendly for travelers?

Guyana has laws against same-sex activity, though they’re rarely enforced against tourists. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion, particularly with public displays of affection. Georgetown has become somewhat more tolerant in recent years, but rural areas remain conservative.