The climate in Guyana is hot, but pleasant for most of the year, particularly in the coastal belt which is cooled by the sea breeze. The average temperature ranges between 79°F and 87°F. The rainy season occurs in May and June, and then again in December and January, with an average rainfall of 91 inches.

Go here for a five day weather forecast for Georgetown.

Guyana is derived from an Amerindian word meaning "land of many waters." The area of the Guianas, bounded by the rivers of the Orinoco, Amazon, Rio Negro and the Atlantic Ocean, is believed to have been settled before 900 AD by Warrau Indians, and later by the Arawak and Carib tribes. However, there is no evidence from these times of a very advanced civilization.

Sir Walter Raleigh's voyage in 1595 and his subsequent book on the riches of Guyana, did much to stimulate interest in the area. The French and English, as well as the Dutch, laid claim to the region in the 17th century, and it was settled in separate areas by the three nations - the Dutch colonies being located in what is now Guyana.

From 1781 onwards, British influence became increasingly evident, but it was not until 1814 that the colonies of Essequibo, Demerara and Berbice were finally ceded to Britain, while the Courts of Policy and Combined Courts, the legislative and executive bodies created by the Dutch, remained in operation under British rule for another century. In 1831 the three colonies merged to become British Guiana.

The territory attained its independence on May 26, 1966 and became a Republican State on February 23, 1970.

Immigrants were therefore brought in to work, first from Europe (Germany, Malta and Portugal), then China, and eventually in large numbers from India. Today the country's population reflects its immigrant history with Africans, East Indians, Chinese, Portuguese, Europeans, Amerindians, and a fascinating mix of all these races - living side by side.

Capital

Georgetown

Commercial Centres

Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Linden, Rose Hall, Corriverton, Anna Regina.

International Airport

Timehri, 42km from Georgetown.

Time

GMT -4. Current time in Georgetown.

Area

216,000 sq km

Population

750,000 estimated

Language

English and Creole are widely spoken throughout Guyana.

The official currency is the Guyanese dollar, but the U.S. dollar is widely accepted. Foreign currency can be changed at banks, cambios and hotels.

110V and 220V.

Click here for a full listing of Visa Requirements for Entry Into Guyana

Visitors are advised to check with the nearest embassy, consulate (Consulate in Canada, Embassy & Consulates in U.S.A.) or travel agent before departing for Guyana.

Police : 911
Fire : 912
Ambulance Service : 912

Collect Calls
Canada : 161
USA : 165
United Kingdom : 169

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