Guyana

The state covers 214,969 square kilometers (83,000 square miles) with tropical rainforest in the interior, savanna landscapes to the south, and agricultural coastal plains. The Pakaraima Mountains rise in the west with Kaieteur Falls dropping 741 feet (226 meters). Three major river systems, including Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice, traverse the territory.

Spanish explorers reached the coast in the late 15th century, but the Dutch established the first permanent European settlements starting in 1580. Britain took control during the Napoleonic Wars and formalized rule in 1814. Slavery ended in 1834, followed by Indian indentured labor on sugar plantations between 1838 and 1917. Political autonomy arrived on May 26, 1966, with republic status following in 1970.

Residents speak English as the official language, while Hindi, Urdu, and various Creole dialects appear in daily life. Diwali and Eid rank among national holidays. African drum dances, Indian musical traditions, and chutney soca form important parts of the local music scene. Religious communities from Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam coexist across generations.

Cheddi Jagan International Airport near Georgetown receives direct flights from New York, Miami, Toronto, Panama, and several Caribbean islands. Visitors require a visa or electronic travel authorization depending on nationality. Dry seasons from February to April and August to November offer better conditions for rainforest excursions. US dollars are widely accepted, with the local currency being the Guyanese dollar.

As the only English-speaking country in South America, the road system uses left-side driving, a legacy of British colonial rule. United Nations arbitration panels have been addressing border disputes with Venezuela over the oil-rich Essequibo region, which comprises roughly two-thirds of the national territory. The land hosts more than 800 bird species, including the rare Hoatzin with prehistoric features.

Inception: 1966

Capital city: Georgetown

Part of: South America, Caribbean

Shares border with: Brazil, Suriname, Venezuela

Website: https://parliament.gov.gy

GPS coordinates: 4.84171,-58.64169

Latest update: November 30, 2025 16:13