Where is Guyana Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Guyana located on the map? Guyana is an independent nation located in South America. Check out the following images to see location of Guyana on maps.

Guyana Location in World Map

Here you can see where Guyana is.

Location Information of Guyana

Guyana is a country located on the northern coast of South America, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Venezuela to the west, Brazil to the south, and Suriname to the east. Known for its diverse cultural heritage and rich natural resources, Guyana is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world, with vast rainforests, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity. The country has made significant strides in economic development, particularly in the oil sector, though it continues to face challenges related to its infrastructure and poverty levels.

Latitude and Longitude

Guyana is located at approximately 4.8604° N latitude and 58.9302° W longitude. The country’s geographical location places it within the tropics, along the northeastern part of South America. Its position on the Atlantic coast makes it a prime location for the fishing industry and international shipping. Guyana’s territory is characterized by a diverse landscape, from the coastal plains to the tropical rainforests in the interior.

Capital City and Major Cities

Georgetown (Capital City)

The capital of Guyana is Georgetown, located on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Demerara River. It is the largest city in the country and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Guyana. Georgetown is home to about 250,000 people, though the entire metropolitan area has a population closer to 350,000. The city features colonial architecture, a mix of historical sites, and modern developments. Some key points of interest in Georgetown include:

St. George’s Cathedral: One of the tallest wooden churches in the world, St. George’s Cathedral is a significant architectural landmark in Georgetown. Its gothic-style design stands out in the city’s landscape.
Independence Square: A historical landmark symbolizing Guyana’s independence from Britain in 1966. It is a center for various national ceremonies and events.
The National Museum of Guyana: Located in the capital, the museum highlights Guyana’s cultural history and its indigenous peoples, colonial past, and natural resources.

Georgetown is an important commercial hub in the region, and its port serves as a vital entry point for goods into the country. Additionally, the city is the primary international gateway for tourists, as it is home to the country’s main international airport, Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO).

Linden

Located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Georgetown, Linden is the second-largest city in Guyana. It is situated on the Demerara River and was once known for its bauxite mining industry, which continues to be a key part of the local economy. The city has an urban population of around 40,000 people. Linden is also known for its lush surroundings and is located near several nature reserves and forests.

New Amsterdam

New Amsterdam, located in the east of the country, is one of the major cities and the administrative center of Berbice. The city has a rich colonial history, with many buildings and landmarks dating back to the Dutch and British colonial periods. It serves as a commercial center for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly sugar and rice production. New Amsterdam is also known for its beautiful historical architecture and proximity to nature reserves and wildlife.

Anna Regina

Located on the Essequibo Coast in the southwest of Guyana, Anna Regina is the capital of the region of Essequibo Islands-West Demerara. It is an important agricultural and fishing hub, providing a gateway for those traveling to the islands of the Essequibo River. Anna Regina is known for its small-town charm and scenic views along the river.

Bartica

Bartica is a town located at the confluence of the Essequibo, Mazaruni, and Cuyuni rivers. It serves as a regional administrative center and commercial hub for the area. The town is also known for being a base for exploration of the interior and an entry point for tourists heading into Guyana’s hinterland.

Time Zone

Guyana operates in Guyana Time (GYT), which is UTC -4:00 year-round. Unlike many other countries in the region, Guyana does not observe Daylight Saving Time. The time zone ensures that the country operates on a consistent schedule, with no changes during the year.

Climate

Guyana has a tropical climate, which is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The coastal regions have a humid climate due to their proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The interior regions, especially those in the rainforest zone, have a more equatorial climate.

Wet Season (May to August, November to January)

During the wet season, Guyana experiences heavy rainfall, particularly from May to August and November to January. This period can be marked by frequent thunderstorms and tropical downpours, especially in the interior. Coastal areas typically receive more rain during these months compared to the inland regions. The rainfall sustains the lush vegetation and dense rainforests that Guyana is known for.

Dry Season (February to April, September to October)

The dry season in Guyana lasts from February to April and September to October. During this time, rainfall decreases significantly, and temperatures can be higher, especially in the interior regions. The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit the country, as it is more conducive to travel and outdoor activities.

Average temperatures in Guyana range from 75°F (24°C) to 88°F (31°C), though temperatures can be slightly cooler in the inland and mountainous regions.

Economic Status

Guyana is classified as a developing country and has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, primarily due to its burgeoning oil sector. The discovery of vast offshore oil reserves in recent years has drastically increased the country’s economic growth. The oil industry accounts for a significant portion of GDP, exports, and foreign direct investment. Some of the key sectors of the Guyanese economy include:

Oil and Gas

The oil industry in Guyana has revolutionized the country’s economy. The discovery of large oil reserves offshore has attracted significant international investment. ExxonMobil, a major U.S. oil company, operates in the country and is one of the key players in the sector. Oil production in Guyana is expected to continue to rise sharply, making it one of the richest oil producers in the Caribbean and South America. This newfound wealth has the potential to transform the country’s infrastructure and social services.

Agriculture

Historically, agriculture has been the backbone of Guyana’s economy. The country produces a variety of crops, including rice, sugar, and bananas, which are important exports. Agriculture in Guyana is mainly concentrated in the coastal plains, where irrigation systems help manage flood risks. The country is also known for its production of timber, palm oil, and other tropical products.

Mining

Guyana has significant mineral resources, including bauxite, gold, and diamond deposits. The mining sector has historically been a major contributor to the economy, with gold being the most valuable export product. The government has taken steps to modernize the mining industry, though it faces challenges related to environmental sustainability.

Services and Tourism

Guyana’s service sector, including banking, transportation, and retail, has grown in importance, particularly as the oil industry has expanded. Tourism is also an emerging sector, with the country’s unique biodiversity, wildlife, and natural attractions drawing increasing numbers of visitors. Tourist destinations include:

Kaieteur Falls: One of the world’s tallest single-drop waterfalls, located in the Kaieteur National Park. The falls are a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Guyana’s natural beauty.
Iwokrama Rainforest Reserve: A conservation area that offers eco-tourism opportunities, including bird watching, jungle treks, and wildlife spotting.
Essequibo River: A massive river system that offers boating, fishing, and eco-tourism opportunities, with several islands along the way.
Shell Beach: A remote beach on the Atlantic coast known for its sea turtle nesting sites.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Guyana for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days do not require a visa. However, they must meet the following requirements:

A valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Guyana.
Proof of return or onward travel (e.g., a return flight ticket).
Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the duration of stay.

For stays longer than 90 days or for purposes such as employment, study, or residency, U.S. citizens will need to apply for an appropriate visa through the Embassy of Guyana or consulates in the United States. Guyana is part of the CARICOM (Caribbean Community) group, which may facilitate entry for certain regional nationals.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

New York City to Georgetown: The distance between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York and Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO) in Georgetown is approximately 3,300 miles (5,300 kilometers), with a flight duration of about 6 to 7 hours.
Los Angeles to Georgetown: The distance between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Georgetown is approximately 3,800 miles (6,100 kilometers), with a flight duration of around 7 to 8 hours.

Guyana Facts

Size	214,969 km²
Residents	779,000
Language	English
Capital	Georgetown
Longest river	Essequibo (1,010 km)
Highest mountain	Roraima-Tepui (2,810 m)
Currency	Guyana dollars