Guyana is one of its kind in South America. This ex British colony gained its independence in 1966 and became a Republic. It is the only English speaking nation in South America and the only with such a blend of cultures which are reflected in the countries architecture, food, and everyday life. Although Guyana is a unique place it poses the same hazards as any other nation.

Traveling info

All tourists traveling to Guyana must have a valid passport. Certain nationals are exempt from obtaining a visa and are allowed a stay of usually up to 90 days with a possibility of extension whilst other nationals must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. (List of exempt nations in sources). Tourists who decide to drive in Guyana must have their domestic driving permit with them. An international driving permit, although not required, might be quite useful. Guyana is using the left-hand side driving system.

Traveling hazards

Road conditions in Guyana are generally poor. Due to the many rivers in the country, a lot of transport involves ferries. There is only one land border crossing, the Takutu bridge. Besides the bridge other border crossings involve ferries. Local drivers are often reckless, speeding and generally ignore the traffic laws. The local police force is ill-trained and ill-equipped meaning that the traffic law is rarely enforced. Animals often wander onto the road creating danger, particularly for the speeding locals. Roads often miss signage, road marking and are generally poorly maintained. Due to heavy rains roads are often flooded making some of them impassible.

Environmental hazards

Over 80% of the country is covered in rainforest. Due to the recent agreement between Norway and Guyana the country preserved the jungle area and forbid deforestation in exchange for money from outside nations. This, in turn, allows flora and fauna in the country to flourish. Jaguars and cougars inhabit the jungle of Guyana. The territory of these large cats overlaps meaning it is possible to meet these in the same area. These, however, prefer to avoid places of human activity. Encounters with these may be fatal or result in serious injuries. Due to Guyana’s tropical climate, it is inhabited by many venomous snakes. These include the bushmaster, the coral snake, South American rattlesnake and several species of pitvipers. All of these are highly venomous. Coastal waters of Guyana are generally safe. There has been only one recorded shark attack in the history of the country. For safety, however, it is advised to avoid swimming after dusk. Rivers and lakes in Guyana are a different story, these often are inhabited by either the black caimans which are capable of killing humans.
Although Guyana doesn’t suffer from earthquakes nor does it have any active volcanoes, it is plagued by severe flooding during the rainy season.

Health hazards

Every visitor traveling to Guyana from countries with a risk of yellow fever must present proof of a yellow fever vaccine. There is currently an outbreak of yellow fever in Guyana, therefore, travelers coming from the outside of the risk countries are also strongly recommended to get a yellow fever vaccination. There are other vaccinations which are not required but strongly recommended. These are the routine vaccines, typhoid, rabies, hepatitis A and B vaccines. There is also a risk of Zika virus and malaria in Guyana, therefore, pregnant women are advised to reconsider the trip. Visitors can protect against these by using mosquito repellents. There is also medication on prescription against malaria. Healthcare system provides low-quality service. Hospitals and clinics in the public sector are often understaffed, poorly trained and lack supplies whilst the private sector is better off, it still lacks in quality to catch up to its neighboring countries. When purchasing medical insurance it is recommended to consider a medical evacuation to the nearest quality facility.
In case of an emergency dial 913.

Crime

Crime is a major issue in Guyana, the law is generally enforced only in the areas of New Amsterdam and Georgetown. In other parts of the country which are accessible usually only by boat or plane, the law is not enforced at all. Violent crime such as murder and armed robbery is common. Tourists in Guyana are particularly targeted by armed robbers hoping for valuable loot. Although staying low key decreases the chances of becoming a victim it is still quite possible to be robbed. It is important to avoid wearing flashy jewelry, to wear money belts so the money is secure and out of visibility and reach of pickpockets. Guyana drug laws state that possession of any kind and amount is illegal and punishable by jail time. Minimum sentence lasts 3 years.

Summary

Although Guyana is not popular with outside tourists as most visitors are relatives of the locals, it is a place to still be discovered by those who love to wander the wilderness. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
http://www.minfor.gov.gy/visa-entry-requirements-countries/
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/guyana
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/yellow-fever#5291
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/yellow-fever-malaria-information-by-country/guyana#seldyfm879