Do’s and Don’t in Guyana

Social Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greetings & Communication

• Do: Greet people with a friendly “Good morning” or “Good afternoon.” A handshake is a common and respected form of greeting.
• Do: Take time for small talk before getting to business or making a request. Guyanese culture is generally relaxed and relationship-oriented, so a few moments of pleasant conversation are always appreciated.
• Don’t: Be overly direct or rush conversations. An abrupt manner can be perceived as rude or dismissive.
• Don’t: Discuss sensitive political or racial topics. Guyana has a complex ethno-political history, and it is most respectful to be a listener rather than a commentator on these subjects.

Dress Code & Appearance

• Do: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites (churches, mosques, temples) or rural communities. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers are practical for both sun and insect protection as well as for showing cultural respect.
• Don’t: Wear flashy or expensive jewelry, particularly in urban areas like Georgetown, as it can attract unwanted attention.
• Do: Pack practical, sturdy footwear for jungle treks and comfortable shoes for walking around towns.

Visiting Homes & Indigenous Communities

• Do: Accept offers of food or drink when visiting someone’s home, as it’s a sign of hospitality. It is polite to at least try a small amount to show your appreciation.
• Do: Bring a small, simple gift if invited to a home. Thoughtful items include fresh fruit, a dessert, or a small souvenir from your home country.
• Don’t: Enter an Indigenous community or sacred site without a local guide and proper permissions. These are private lands and must be treated with the utmost respect.
• Do: Show respect for elders in all communities; they hold a position of high esteem and their wisdom is deeply valued.

Health & Safety

Personal Security

• Do: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in Georgetown and other urban centers. Keep valuables out of sight and secured.
• Don’t: Walk alone at night, particularly in unlit or unfamiliar areas of Georgetown. For your safety, please use a registered taxi for any evening travel.
• Do: Keep copies of your important documents (passport, visa) separate from the originals. Digital copies stored securely online are also a good idea.
• Don’t: Display large amounts of cash in public. Be discreet when handling money.

Food & Water

• Do: Drink bottled or properly treated water. To avoid any health issues, please refrain from drinking tap water.
• Don’t: Be afraid to eat at local cook-shops and street food stalls. This is a fantastic way to experience authentic local culture. Simply choose busy places where the high turnover of customers ensures the food is fresh.
• Do: Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer before eating to maintain good health throughout your travels.

Wildlife & Nature

• Do: Use insect repellent containing DEET, especially at dawn and dusk, to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Malaria.
• Don’t: Touch or feed wildlife. Observe all animals from a safe and respectful distance to ensure their well-being and your safety.
• Do: Always follow the instructions of your guide, especially on jungle treks, river trips, or near wildlife. They are highly trained professionals whose primary concern is your safety.
• Don’t: Swim in rivers or creeks without first checking with your local guide. They will know about potential dangers such as caimans, piranhas, or strong currents.

Money & Transactions

Currency & Payments

• Do: Carry a mix of Guyanese dollars (GYD) for small purchases and US dollars (USD) for larger payments like tours and hotels. USD is widely accepted, but having small denominations is best for ease of transaction.
• Don’t: Rely solely on credit cards. Many smaller businesses, especially those outside of Georgetown, are cash-only establishments.
• Do: Inform your bank of your travel dates before you depart to avoid your cards being unexpectedly blocked due to foreign activity.

Tipping & Bargaining

• Do: Tip guides, drivers, and lodge staff for good service. A 10% tip is a good general guideline where a service charge isn’t already included on the bill.
• Don’t: Aggressively bargain in markets. While a bit of polite haggling is sometimes acceptable at stalls (like those in Stabroek Market), it is not practiced in established shops.

Photography & Technology

Photographing People

• Do: Always ask for permission before taking a close-up photograph of someone, including children. A friendly gesture and a smile go a long way.
• Don’t: Be intrusive with your camera, especially in places of worship or during private community events. Be mindful and respectful of the moment.
• Do: Offer to show them the photo you’ve taken as a gesture of goodwill. It’s a simple way to connect and share the experience.

Drones & Connectivity

• Do: Check and follow local regulations regarding drone usage. Flying them over certain areas or communities may be restricted or require a permit.
• Don’t: Expect reliable Wi-Fi outside of major hotels in Georgetown. We encourage you to view this as a positive opportunity to unplug from the digital world and immerse yourself fully in Guyana’s spectacular nature.