Georgetown

Georgetown is the capital of Guyana and sits along the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Demerara River with colonial wooden buildings and wide tree-lined avenues throughout its districts. Canals cut through several areas as much of the urban land sits below sea level and requires drainage systems.

The Dutch founded this settlement in 1781, and the British moved the capital here in 1812 during their colonial administration of what was then British Guiana. After independence in 1966, the city remained the seat of government and grew as the economic center of the newly formed nation of Guyana.

The streets echo with multiple languages including English, Hindi, Urdu and Creole dialects, reflecting the multicultural makeup of the city. Religious festivals from different communities shape the calendar and visitors can spot Hindu temples alongside Christian churches and mosques during a stroll.

The central Stabroek Market building with its cast-iron clock tower opens daily from sunrise to sunset offering fresh produce, household goods and local crafts. Most districts are walkable though the tropical heat and occasional downpours call for appropriate clothing and timing when exploring.

The wooden St. George's Cathedral completed in 1892 reaches roughly 44 meters (144 feet) in height and ranks among the tallest timber churches worldwide. The urban area sits largely below sea level and is protected by an intricate system of dikes and pumps, a technique introduced by early Dutch settlers.