Guyana
Key Country Facts
Guyana was founded in 1966, the capital is Georgetown and its main language is English, though Guyanese Creole is also commonly spoken. About 800,000 people live here (2013). Most Guyanese are Hindu or Christian, with some Muslims as well. The primary exports are gold, rice, sugar, and bauxite, with a lot of income also coming from agriculture and mining. T
Guyana has one of the largest unspoiled rainforests in the world, with some parts inaccessible by humans.
An interesting social norm in Guyana is the tendency to treat people as though they are all a part of a family community. In rural areas, it is not unusual to hear elders being called “uncle” or “auntie.” Similarly, the dead involves collectively grieving and providing a community-wide feast to honor the deceased and put his or her spirit to rest.
In Guyana, the harpy eagle and the giant otter - both rare species - are found in this country! Some nature photographers called the harpy eagle the “unicorn of the rainforest” because it is so incredible rare to see one, let alone catch it on camera. A must-see location in Guyana is Kaieteur Falls, known as one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in the world - around four times taller than Niagara Falls!
Guyana might be one of my favorite countries in South America. Why? It’s vibrant, has lots of positive energy and is the only country on the continent with a distinct Caribbean flair. It’s major exports are gold, bauxite, wood, and apparel made from US imports. Guyana has one of the largest unexplored oil basins in the world. So when the world petroleum prices increase this represents huge opportunity for this tiny country.
After landing at the international airport, I travelled by canoe down the river to a remote Amerindian Village. These descendants of the indigenous peoples are skilled hunters and craftsmen.
Afterwards, I made my way to the capital city, Georgetown, for a walking tour. We started at the Pegasus hotel and made our way to Stabroek market. The highlight of my 2 days in Guyana was playing cards (gambling) with the locals, trying some local foods fruits and just interacting with numerous Guyanans.
