Officially named the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Guyana is a country on the northern coast of South America, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, alongside Suriname, Venezuela and Brazil. Once was the British colony known as British Guiana before independence in 1966, the country is known for its tropical rainforests, rivers, waterfalls, savannas and rich biodiversity, along with a culture that reflects African, Indian, Indigenous, European and other Caribbean influences, and an economy that has been traditionally dependent on agriculture, mining, forestry and offshore oil production.
Its capital, Georgetown, is located on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Demerara River. Not only is Guyana's largest city, it is the country's main political, commercial and administrative centre. The city is known for its wooden colonial-era architecture, canals, markets and historic buildings, with famous landmarks like St. George's Cathedral — one of the world's tallest wooden churches, and the Stabroek Market.
Severe flooding, coastal inundation and wildfires.
For traffic and driving offences, Guyana uses an automated traffic ticketing system via the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) project, utilising radar signs and speed cameras to capture violations. As of May 2026, over 51,000 e-tickets had been issued, with over G$205 million (~£741,203) collected in fines. Offences covered by the ticketing system would lead to police issuing a ticket rather than unlawfully detaining the driver, seizing the vehicle or withholding licences/documents, and that the driver can pay the fine or challenge the matter in court.
Common traffic offence include;
Other violations to keep in mind;
The official language of Guyana is English — making it the only English-speaking country in South America, but Guyanese Creole, Hindustani and Bhojpuri, along with Cariban and Arawakan languages, are also spoken.
Vehicles drive on the left in Guyana. The minimum age to drive is 17, while the minimum renting age is 21, though some international rental brands have the minimum age set to 25, and many companies would restrict certain large vehicles or SUVs from drivers under 25. UK drivers don't generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a UK photocard driving licence is acceptable for up to 60 days, unless the driver holds an older paper licence. However, many rental companies may require an IDP along with a valid licence that has been held for at least 1 – 2 years.
Road conditions in Guyana, especially in Georgetown and along coastal areas, are often in a poor state of repair due to seasonal flooding, and are heavily trafficked by ongoing construction. Roads can also be hazardous with limited street lighting, reckless drivers and fast-moving minibuses, so make sure to drive defensively and be extra cautious while driving at night.
The common fuel types available at Guyanese petrol stations are 92- and 95-octane unleaded, Low Sulfur Diesel (LSD) and Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD). Many stations would have an attendant who would fill up for you, and cash is still widely acceptable, while major distributors have introduced digital and card payment options. Don't assume every station will accept card payments. Also, with a rental car, keep any fuel receipts in case your rental company requires evidence of refuelling.
Stations are widely available in Georgetown and along the main populated routes, but are less frequent when travelling into remote/interior areas. Make sure to fill up before departure to more remote areas, don't let the tank run too low, and consider asking your tour operator or a local driver about fuel availability in your travels.
The BAC limit is 0.08%.
Mandatory for all occupants.
Any individual legally defined as a 'child' — in regards to size, height or build — must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system.
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