A small country on the Caribbean coast of South America, Guyana is a country where Caribbean and South American cultures blend with the traditions of native Guyanese to create the diverse, intriguing culture of Guyana today. The official language is English, but Guyanese Creole is widely spoken, too. Formerly a British colony, European influence is prevalent as are East Indian, African, and Chinese influences.

The melting pot of Guyanese culture is perhaps most present in the food of Guyana. Indian dishes like curry and roti are widely available, even as street food in Georgetown and other cities. The Amerindian stew pepperpot has become the Guyanese national dish featuring cassava, hot peppers, and meat like mutton or pork. The Guyanese also bake many breads at home and British influence is apparent in the popularity of pastries. While you’re there, seek out a pineapple tart.

Guyana is a tropical hotbed of biodiversity with many opportunities to spot animals in their native habitat. Birders like Guyana for the enormous variety of native species that come in a number of vibrant colors. Scarlet macaws, purple-throated fruitcrows, and yellow-headed caracara are among the colorful highlights.

The Iwokrama Rainforest is accessible to most travelers in this small country and is a treat for those that venture there. You might spot large mammals like jaguars and rufous-rumped agoutis. There are many hiking trails to explore in the rainforest as well as a canopy walkway that takes you an a trek high above the ground to see the forest as the birds do. (The Iwokrama Rainforest is also a haven for birders.)

For all the things there are to enjoy in Guyana, there are many to be careful of as the crime rate is very high and the political situation is unstable. The murder rate is three times higher than that of the United States and anyone could be a target. It is best not to travel alone, especially at night, and to avoid high crime areas like much of Georgetown.

There is plenty of petty crime like pick-pocketing going on throughout the country. But petty crime can quickly escalate to violent crime. Armed robberies and muggings are common, especially of travelers. Thieves also tend to break into hotel rooms. It is best not to travel with valuables, to safeguard those you do bring, and to use extreme caution before opening the door of your hotel room (especially at night).

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