How Safe is Guyana for Tourists?
- Assanié Morrison
- Jun 29
- 6 min read
A realistic look at tourist safety in Guyana.
As I’ve said before… somewhere in my blog, I’m giving you the real deal about Guyana. Every country has its pros and cons, and I’m giving you both about Guyana, so you can’t say I didn’t warn you. Now, if you’re reading all about Guyana’s beauty and are itching to visit, the question, ‘Is it safe?’ is probably hanging in the back of your mind. The answer is... complicated. So, long story short, to a degree. If you’re coming for a few days to a week or two, once you have some common sense and know what you’re about, you’ll be okay. Here’s what you need to know about safety in Guyana.
And let’s not forget that this country is beautiful, full of vibrant culture, nature, and an energy that’ll make you fall in love with it. But, like anywhere, it’s good to know what to expect, so you're not caught off guard.
What travelers should be aware of.
Most crime in Guyana is often targeted. Meaning, if you look like an easy target, they’ll follow you and make their move. It’s not usually violent towards tourists, honestly, it’s rare. What you’ll find is petty theft, like pickpocketing, and opportunistic scams—especially in tourist-heavy areas. So, it’s not too bad, and if you’re cautious… note I didn’t say paranoid, you can avoid that.
One of the more common scams to be aware of involves people posing as tour guides or officials offering ‘too-good-to-be-true’ deals. While most people in Guyana are genuinely friendly, tourists should always be cautious about anyone who approaches them unsolicited, especially with offers of excursions or guides.
Pro tip: Only use officially recognized guides, tour agencies, and services. It's always safer to book through a reputable source than to engage with someone on the street offering unsolicited service.
Staying Safe in Georgetown
NOW, you're in Georgetown, don't carry yourself anyhow.
Do:
Stay in well-populated areas. Popular spots like the Stabroek Market, the Promenade Gardens, and the Seawall are generally safe, but still keep an eye on your belongings. The markets in Georgetown and on the East Coast aren’t particularly dangerous, but make sure that someone can’t snatch your stuff away... don’t put it down either.
Use reputable transportation. If you need to get around, always opt for registered taxis or pre-arranged transportation, especially at night. Not any taxis either—make sure to hire someone trustworthy.
Dress modestly. While Georgetown is a lively city, dressing modestly helps you avoid unnecessary attention. This ain't the time to be all blinged out. Also, it’s a culturally considerate thing, especially in more rural areas.
Keep your valuables secure. Use anti-theft backpacks or money belts, and don’t flash expensive items like cameras or jewelry. And mind how you’re holding your phone to take photos.
Don’t:
Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. While parts of Georgetown are safe, certain areas can be dangerous after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated streets, and avoid wandering into neighborhoods you're not familiar with. If you're going to a particular spot for dinner or a party, hire a driver and avoid wandering around.
Engage in aggressive bargaining. While haggling is common in many places, if someone gets hostile or overly pushy in a market, it’s best to walk away.
Accept unsolicited offers. As mentioned before, always be cautious about strangers offering services on the street.
Where to stay and places to be cautious.
When it comes to where you should stay, Georgetown offers a mix of upscale hotels and more affordable options. Areas like Campbellville and Queenstown are considered safer, while Albouystown and some parts of Lacytown should be approached with caution, particularly at night.
In general, it’s important to stay in well-known tourist areas or accommodations that have good reviews and are recommended by other travelers. Always check recent reviews on trusted sites like Google or TripAdvisor to see what others have experienced.
A great way to get the inside scoop on what’s safe and what’s not is to connect with locals. They’re the best guides to give you the heads up on what areas to avoid or the best spots to visit. Be open, talk to people, and tap into the local knowledge—they’re always down to share.
If you plan to venture outside Georgetown to explore the rest of the country, be mindful of the surrounding regions. As someone who lives in the countryside, it’s safe, but I’m still cautious of people 'liming' about that I don’t know. Essequibo, Berbice, and Lethem are popular, but these areas are less developed than the capital and can sometimes be isolated… avoid isolated areas when possible. When venturing to rural locations, always ensure that your trip is planned, and your transport and guides are arranged ahead of time.
If you're in the countryside, you should be more concerned about animals than humans. But once you have a good guide, you’re okay—don’t worry.
Minibus culture, taxis, and long-distance travel tips.
I’mma be blunt: You see these bus drivers? They probably think they're a cat with 9 lives, based on how they drive sometimes. But the beauty of Guyanese driving is, somehow, we know how to avoid accidents. Either way, unless absolutely necessary, opt for a private driver or taxi if you want to avoid the chaos of minibuses. Trust me, your heart will thank you.
If you decide to take a minibus, always be alert to your surroundings, and try to avoid riding in the most overcrowded ones, where you may be vulnerable to theft.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Georgetown and other towns, but they can sometimes be unreliable. Always opt for registered taxis and, if possible, ask your hotel or a trusted local to recommend a reputable driver. Taxi fares can sometimes be negotiable, so make sure you agree on a price before setting off.
Long-distance travel: If you're traveling long distances, it’s often best to go with a trusted tour operator or driver. Many of the roads in Guyana are not in the best condition, so long-distance travel can be uncomfortable and potentially risky if you're not prepared. Always check with your accommodation for safe travel options and whether any necessary vaccinations are recommended before traveling to more remote areas.
Jungle travel, river hazards, and general precautions.
Guyana's outdoor adventures are what make it so special, but with that comes a few safety considerations.
When traveling to rainforests or remote wilderness areas, ensure that you're well-prepared for the conditions. The weather can be extremely humid, and mosquitoes are prevalent, so be sure to pack insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and use nets where available. Be mindful of dangerous wildlife, such as venomous snakes, spiders, and certain insects. However, attacks are rare, and with a trained guide, you'll stay safe.
Pro tip: Malaria is a concern in some areas, especially in the interior, so make sure you're up-to-date on vaccinations, and always take malaria prevention medication if advised by your doctor.
River Hazards: Guyana’s rivers are stunning, but they also present risks like strong currents and hidden debris. If you plan to go boating, ensure that you’re wearing a lifejacket at all times, especially in fast-moving water. Avoid swimming in the rivers unless you're with an experienced guide or local who understands the water.
Safety Precautions: When trekking through the jungle, always travel with a guide. Stick to well-marked paths, and make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Your guide will also be equipped with the knowledge needed to keep you safe from environmental risks like plant allergies or animal encounters.
Solo & Female Traveler Safety
Solo travel in Guyana is possible, but it requires a bit of extra care, especially for female travelers. While the country is known for its friendliness, women traveling alone should take a few extra steps to stay safe.
Tips for Solo Travelers:
Stay in trusted accommodations with good reviews.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less-populated or poorly lit areas.
Be mindful of local customs and culture. Guyanese people are generally welcoming, but dressing conservatively, particularly in rural areas, can help you avoid unwanted attention.
Ignore the men on the street. Now, usually, all they do is cat-call you—don’t even listen to them, just be on your way.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to leave or seek help.
Connect with other solo travelers in Guyana—there are local groups or social media communities where you can find fellow wanderers and share tips and experiences.
Most importantly, stay confident and don’t let anyone mess with your vibe.
Being aware but not paranoid—how to enjoy Guyana safely.
In the end, the key to enjoying Guyana safely is balance. Yes, be aware of your surroundings, know what areas to avoid, and keep an eye on your valuables, but also remember that this country is full of beautiful, welcoming people and incredible experiences waiting for you. I’m not telling you to be crazy paranoid and nervous all the time—that’ll just ruin the trip. Be conscious and have fun.
Being safe doesn’t mean avoiding adventure, it means embracing it with a little extra caution. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore everything Guyana has to offer. Just remember to take the usual precautions, respect the local culture, and enjoy this amazing country with a positive mindset.
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