Best things to do in Guyana

Head into the Amazon to see Kaieteur Falls, the world's widest single drop waterfall and a scenic wonder among the untouched environment of the jungle. Located on the Potaro River and in Kaieteur National Park, the waterfall can only be seen by taking a plane ride from either Ogle or Georgetown Airport. The water plunges from 251 m (822 ft) high off the cliff's edge, and boasts among the most powerful waterfalls in the world due to its volume and speed. Premium viewing spots are available and you can even dare to stand next to its precipice and stare out over the cascading water.

Get a taste of everyday life in Georgetown at Stabroek Market, one of the busiest places in the city. Locals come here every day, either selling items to make a living or buying items for their household. Built in 1808, the market ranks among the city's oldest buildings still in use. The predominantly red and white structure features a clock tower reminiscent of the Victorian British style of architecture. At this expansive market (one of the country's largest) you can shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and meats, clothing, and confectionary items.

Take a drive across the engineering phenomenon that is Demerara Harbour Bridge. This structure stretches 1.8 km (1.15 mi) across the Demerara River and is one of the longest floating bridges in the world. The bridge has a 7.9 m (26 ft) vertical clearance for smaller watercraft and two retracting spans creating a 77.4 m (254 ft) horizontal clearance for larger vessels.

Admire St. George's Cathedral, the main cathedral in the capital city and one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world. The Anglican church, built 1892, is now the seat of the bishop of Guyana and a national landmark. Admire the imposing 43 m (143 ft) Gothic-style structure, designed by English architect Sir Arthur Blomfield. Built from native Greenheart wood, durable and insect-resistant, the historic white structure is an emblem of the city. Wander the decorated interior, filled with intricate stained glass, historic relics, and a large chandelier gifted by Queen Victoria.

Used as a public execution area during the 19th century, Promenade Gardens today has a very different function. Take a peaceful stroll through this urban green space, where you can relax, read, and enjoy the surrounding flowers and trees. Paths wind past tall trees, lush plants, and colorful blooms. Look for the Mahatma Gandhi monument, as well as a bandstand--the oldest of three in the city.

Head to Guyana National Museum to learn about Guyana's natural and cultural heritage. The first floor tells the story of the nation's history, with display models of boats, historical buildings, and forts. (Look for an old car used by the president.) Continue upstairs, which covers natural history, complete with a taxidermied lion and other animals. Also, look for the model of a giant sloth, reconstructed based on fossils found in the country. You can also browse displays on local plant life and other objects, such as precious stones.

Become acquainted with Guyana’s varied nature at Guyana Botanical Gardens, a recreational park with an extensive collection of plant and animal life. Established in the late 19th century, the landscaping of the garden took 35 years to complete and was undertaken from start to finish by English gardener John Frederick Waby. A number of canals, kissing bridges, bandstands, and ponds dot the gardens, housing varied species of plants such as lilies, palms, lotus, and the national flower of Guyana, the Victoria Regia Lily. Animals at the park include jaguars, manatees, toucans, owls, tapirs, giant otters, and capuchin monkeys.

Relax and rejuvenate with a combination of wine and nature appreciation offered by Pandama Retreat & Winery. Treat your taste buds to a selection of fruit and herbal wines. That out of the way, choose from many outdoor activities, like camping, swimming, fishing, bird-watching, or hiking. After your exercise, wind down at one of the retreat's forest cabins.

Scale the heights of Iwokrama Canopy Walkway for an outstanding vantage point as well as panoramic views over the lush, verdant jungle and biodiverse wildlife. A series of suspension bridges and decks that go as high as 30 m (98 ft) will take you over the jungle, giving you the chance to see various species of bird such as scarlet macaw, Guiana toucanette, green aracari, and channel-bill toucan, as well as red howler monkeys among others. Even the route itself to the jungle is scenic, with plenty of species observable along the paved roads.

Marvel at an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture by visiting Parliament Bldg, completed in 1834. Featuring a foundation made of greenheart wood, this is one of two buildings in Georgetown featuring a dome. Go to the parliamentary chamber, located in the east wing of the building, to observe mahogany-covered walls and greenheart floors, an elaborately carved speaker's chair, and paintings of Guyana's first president.

At nearly 200 years old, Georgetown Lighthouse is hard to miss with its iconic red-and-white stripes. While the lighthouse is closed and visitors are no longer able to climb the more than 130 stairs to the balcony for panoramic views, a sign at the entrance details the history of the structure. View it from the street or from one of the upper floors of the nearby Marriott Hotel.

Guyana National Library allows you to enrich your knowledge with an abundance of books, historical documents, manuscripts, and phonograph recordings. Founded in 1909, this institution serves as a public lending library and encourages book lovers to nurture their various interests. Initially, a large iron grille stood between readers and the books. Written requests had to be passed to the librarian through a small window. Today, you can access the library's written material easily and quickly.

Cheddi Jagan Research Centre celebrates the life of a major statesman considered by many Guyana's "Father of the Nation." Inside, find a complete replica of the leader's office, photographs telling the story of his life, and items he received during his career. The building is also filled with Jagan's writings, including books, speeches, and intimate poetry he wrote to his wife.

Visit Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology to gain insight into the lives of Guyana's earliest settlers. Housed in a wooden building constructed in the 1800s, the museum features two floors of exhibits dedicated to the cultural heritage of Guyana. This institutions was founded on archaeological collections of Dr. Denis Williams and ethnographical collections of Dr. Walter Roth. Books, pottery, paintings, and tools provide an important look into Guyanese culture.