Guyana offers a melting pot of Caribbean, East Indian and African influences and is situated in mainland South America. About 91% of the country is covered in rainforests and it’s also home to Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall by volume that plunges 741 feet into a beautiful gorge. Largely untouched by mass tourism, Guyana is a destination ideal for adventurous travellers who love untouched nature and want to experience something a little more off-the-beaten path. But when is the ideal time to go? We explore the best time to visit Guyana.
When is the best time to visit Guyana for the weather?
The short answer for when is best to visit Guyana is between February to April, or September to November. These are the drier periods with the best conditions for exploring the country’s incredible landscapes. However, it is a year round destination, so the ideal time to visit depends a lot on what you want to see and do.
February to April has lower rainfall meaning activities such as wildlife watching, hiking and river excursions are all easier to do. Temperatures hover around 30-31C during the day, making it the ideal escape from the winter weather of the UK.
September to November is ideal for those looking to travel around as the roads and trails are generally easier to navigate than during the wetter months. Wildlife can be easier to spot in the savannah too, as animals gather around available water sources. The landscape is still beautifully lush too.
The main rainy season falls between May and August, as well as another wetter period around December and January. Rain can be heavy, but it’s not necessarily continuous. The landscape can be at its most beautiful during these periods.
What is the best time to visit Guyana for events?
As well as weather conditions, you should factor in the many events and festivals that happen throughout the year too. February, for example, is one of the most exciting times to visit Guyana, as this is when Mashramani, or “Mash” happens. The capital comes alive with costumes, music, floats and bands to celebrate Republic Day and is one of the most incredible events of the year.
In February or March there’s the Guyanese celebration of Holi, locally known as Phagwah, a major national public holiday and vibrant Festival of Colours celebrated by all ethnicities and religions in Guyana. You could also visit over Independence Day in May, during Christmas or Easter aswell as during the Rupununi Music & Arts Festival in October. As well as the main events, there is always plenty to see and do in Guyana, allowing you the chance to really immerse yourself in the culture and local life.
When is the best time to visit Guyana for wildlife?
Guyana is one of South America’s most rewarding destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to see species including giant anteaters, giant river otters, monkeys, caimans and an extraordinary range of birds. For wildlife-focused trips, the drier seasons are generally the best choice, particularly September to November. Not only do animals seek out water sources meaning sightings are easier, but the drier conditions also make it more straightforward to reach some of the country’s remote wildlife areas. That said, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and experienced local guides remain an important part of exploring Guyana’s interior.
So when should you visit Guyana?
Ultimately, there isn’t one best time to visit Guyana, rather you should plan your trip depending on what you want to see and do. For the best combination of good weather, being able to get around easily and to experience Guyana’s culture, festivals and events, February to April is a great choice. If you want to see the wildlife, September to November can present some fantastic opportunities to do so, and if your priority is seeing waterfalls at their most powerful or experiencing Guyana’s intensely green rainforest landscapes, travelling around the end of a rainy period can be rewarding. Think carefully about what you want from your trip and stay up to date with relevant event calendars and weather forecasts before you go. Find out more about Guyana here.
