The Hidden Gem South American Country That Fully Speaks English

Guyana is truly the "Land of Giants." Whether it is the giant anteaters that lumber through the country's grassy savannas, the endangered giant river otters that float along the water's surface, or the massive Arapaima, the world's largest freshwater fish made infamous on Jeremy Wade's "River Monsters," that lurk and hunt just below. The world's largest (and possibly friendliest) rodent, the Capybara, spends its days swimming and lounging in Guyana's interconnected waterways and dense forests, while the ethereal harpy eagle, considered to be the largest and most powerful in the world, agilely maneuvers through the sky-scraping rainforest canopy with graceful ease.

Guyana's giant foothold isn't limited to its diverse species of oversized fauna. Awe-inspiring natural wonders, including the extremely remote and powerful Sakaika Falls and the Kaieteur Falls, the largest single-drop waterfall in the world, were carved from the earth by the intricate interlocking waterways and dense rainforests of the Amazon. Guyana's national flower, the giant water lily, seen along the surface of many of the same waterways, stretches 10 feet in diameter, its massive leaves strong enough to support the weight of a young child. 

In almost every way, Guyana is truly a giant, except when it comes to global tourism rankings. Despite its outsized natural wonders and larger-than-life animal inhabitants, the country welcomes just 300,000 tourists each year, making Guyana a largely underrated gem often forgotten on many a South American vacation bucket list. Situated on the northwest coast of the continent, Guyana is South America's only English-speaking country. The underrated place blends the best of both Caribbean and South American influences. Its shared history with the French, British, and Dutch, due to persistent and divisive historical colonization in the region, also adds to the country's rich cultural tapestry, one that is every bit as complex, diverse, and important as its environmental impact and splendor.

The country's cultural and political center, Georgetown, is the perfect place to begin your Guyanese adventure. Just over an hour's drive north from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO), the bustling city of nearly a quarter million residents offers a vibrant mix of activities and tours that showcase its rich history and unique character. Spend the day exploring five nearby river islands and towns with a curated hopping tour or navigate Georgetown's eclectic streets and national monuments on a guided bicycle tour. The highly recommended Demerara Sunset Cruise offers stunning views of Georgetown's distinctive architecture and historical sites from the water, while guests enjoy light refreshments and Caribbean rum. Wrap up an action-packed day by enjoying dinner at the Secret Garden of Guyana, an elevated experience showcasing Guyanese cuisine with an after-dinner show, both presented by celebrated Guyanese chef Eon John, known as "The Singing Chef."

Beyond its structured tours and divine culinary experiences, Georgetown itself is a living museum, where history unfolds along its vibrant streets every day. Historically significant buildings line the busy, colorful streets of the capital city, including the Guyana Museum, St. George's Cathedral, the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, and the Georgetown Lighthouse, which offer unique glimpses into the country's unique past. Starbroek Market, a bustling bazaar and the largest market in the country, has been a cultural staple since the 1700s. Its red, cast-iron roof and clock tower, built in 1880, dominate the city's waterfront and are an integral aspect of the city's storied colonial past. 

While Georgetown is a beautiful and worthwhile destination, it's wise to research and practice safety precautions before diving headfirst into everything the multicultural city has to offer. Considered one of the Caribbean's most dangerous destinations, travelers should beware of the potential for pickpockets, carjackings, and other potentially violent crimes. The Department of State advises visitors to avoid walking or driving alone at night, be vigilant at ATMs and banks, and constantly monitor their surroundings.

Nowhere is Guyana's grandiosity more apparent than deep in its interior, a true diamond in the rough that offers a beautifully isolated, uncrowded getaway and is a crucial part of the Amazonian Guiana Shield. Escape the intoxicating, lively streets of the country's major cities and retreat to Guyana's verdant and densely lush rainforests to hike, traverse, and explore the northeastern boundary of the vast Amazon Rainforest. 

Perhaps Guyana's most impactful natural wonder, Kaieteur National Park, is home to the impressive Kaieteur Falls. At 738 feet, the natural falls are four times taller than Niagara Falls and serve as a central and important aspect of indigenous folklore, with the region itself being the millennia-old home of several small tribes of Amerindian people. Remote and nearly inaccessible, visitors can visit the falls by taking a four-day guided tour from Georgetown, or by flying into the region via Kaieteur International Airport. Serving as the gateway to Guyana's vast interior, this small airport sits less than a mile from the massive falls, where several local operators offer both aerial and guided tours of the surrounding park. To see the falls at their most powerful, visit during the region's monsoon season, from May to August.

To experience another region of Guyana's massive rainforest, stay at the Karanambu Lodge, an extremely remote nature lover's paradise. Over 600 miles from Georgetown and accessible via a long drive or shorter air transfers, Karanambu Lodge is a conservation center offering unique and important eco-tourism experiences and accommodations. As part of Guyana's oldest protected region, the lodge serves an important mission to rescue and rehabilitate Guyana's wild and endangered species.