Travel to Guyana to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

Image

Image

Image  Guyana

Intro

Backpacking or traveling in Guyana?

  • If you are looking for a very off-the-beaten-path destination, Guyana may be your answer... In Guyana, you will find few tourists, the infrastructure is very limited and it is quite expensive. But, because of this, little of the giant rainforest has also been discovered and there are still many unclimbed mountains. It is one of the places on earth where you can still truly feel like an explorer. You will also find a mix of different colonial and local influences. 
  • It is really a country for people who love wild places and are not afraid of some travel challenges. 
  • Activity spotting: explore the markets, nightlife and colonial architecture of Georgetown; shop at Stabroek Market; fly to Kaieteur Falls; go on a survival tour in the jungle; spot the most unusual animal species in the Southern Savannahs, but probably also just in your hotel room; spend time at Karanambu Lodge; take a boat trip down the Essequibo River; hike on Guyana's natural beaches. 
  • Animal spotting: jaguar, giant otter, giant anteater, capibara, tapor, harpy eagle, hoatzin, green anaconda, black caiman, coral snake, toads, morpho butterfly, piranha, arapaima. 

Studying in Guyana?

  • The quality of universities in Guyana varies. The University of Guyana is the main university and the only complete one in the country. The focus is on regional relevance, particularly in ecology, wildlife management and environmental science. Many other degree programs are also available. Outside the University of Guyana, there are a few smaller, specialized training centers. 
  • Popular studies include medicine, environmental science and conservation, engineering and sciences, education and social sciences. 
  • City of study: Georgetown. 
  • Language: English. 

Internship in Guyana?

  • There are some internship opportunities in Guyana, but they are not easy to find. You can search in environmental science and conservation, health and agriculture and sustainable development, education, tourism, among others. 
  • Competencies: problem-solving skills, intercultural communication, adaptability. 

Volunteering in Guyana?

  • There are limited volunteer opportunities in Guyana. Consider volunteering in conservation, education and health care. There are also limited opportunities with individuals. It is most convenient if you look for a local organization and check through them for volunteer opportunities. 

Working in Guyana?

  • There is always work for qualified people. Think about work in health care, education, journalism, tourism, engineering but also with NGOs. 
  • Work culture: family is very important, sometimes this affects work. Also, people tend to communicate indirectly and formally and non-verbal cues are very important. 

Working as a digital nomad in Guyana?

  • Guyana is not popular among digital nomads. The country is not safe, Georgetown is quite expensive and you don't meet many other travelers. The people are very nice, though, and the country is beautiful. If you want to get to know the country you could spend a short time there. Just make sure not to walk the streets with laptops etc. 
  • Favorite locations: Georgetown. 

Living in Guyana?

  • In Guyana you will find mostly small “gated” expat communities in the capital Georgetown. Although the country is incredibly beautiful, the costs are relatively low and the people are incredibly friendly, the country also suffers from high crime rates. 
  • Climate: tropical, humid and sunny almost year round with the exception of the rainy season in May and June. 
  • Language: English, which makes life a lot easier. 
  • Health insurance: health care lags tremendously in Guyana. There is a shortage of well-trained workers and facilities. For many procedures, it is better to get out of the country, so get your own well-covered health insurance.
Guyana Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Guyana Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Image

Content about Guyana on WorldSupporter

Guyana: Updates & Travel

Guyana: Updates & Travel

Travel in Guyana?

  • The South American Guyana, located between Venezuela and Suriname, is known for large areas of rainforest where waterfalls can be seen that are among the largest in the world. In addition, the country is one of the best preserved places for ecotourism. Although the country has a history of political instability and corruption, it has much to offer for the traveler. Guyana has been a Dutch territory for a long time, which can still be seen in, for example, place and street names.

Updates Guyana

  • More about Guyana, updates and contributions, see the link below.

 

How does healthcare work in Guyana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Guyana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Guyana?

What is the quality of healthcare in Guyana?

  • This tropical country offers the best healthcare in the Caribbean. However, it still falls short of the standards that people from Western countries are used to.
  • Guyana offers both public and private healthcare. The quality of care depends on where you are, with, as in most countries, the best care in the capital Georgetown. In remote areas, care is difficult to access or even non-existent.
  • All visitors to Guyana have access to healthcare, but most foreigners living in Guyana opt for private care or care in Colombia or the US. Medical evacuation is also sometimes necessary in the case of serious medical conditions or emergencies.
  • Pharmacies are mainly found in urban areas.
  • The emergency number for an ambulance is 913, but this only works in and around Georgetown. In other parts of the country, emergency medical care depends on local health centres and district hospitals.

How does the public healthcare system work in Guyana?

  • Guyana has a universal healthcare system. The Ministry of Public Health coordinates public healthcare. Healthcare is partly free for all residents of Guyana, but often there is an additional charge.
  • In the public healthcare institutions in Guyana, you will mainly find basic care. Unfortunately, the staff and resources are often limited.
  • The costs are low, or the care is even free, for residents.
  • Specialist care is very limited and sometimes only available in private clinics.
  • The Georgetown Public Hospital is the most important public hospital.

How does the private healthcare system work in Guyana?

  • Private healthcare in Guyana is a lot better than public healthcare, but very limited.
  • In private healthcare, you will find specialists, shorter waiting times and better medical facilities! The costs are a lot higher and you often have to pay in advance.
  • The private hospitals are only found in Georgetown. The well-known private institutions are St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and Woodlands Hospital.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Guyana?

General practitioners are available through the public health centres or through private healthcare. The latter is of course faster, but also more expensive.

How is the dentist arranged in Guyana?

  • There are both public and private dental care institutions. Most private institutions are sole proprietorships.
  • You can get basic dental care in the state hospitals.
  • Private dental care is of higher quality and offers more options. Many expats opt for a private clinic.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Guyana?

  • Basic pregnancy care is available in the public hospitals, but the quality varies. In general, private care is more comfortable and the monitoring is better.
  • Infant mortality in Guyana is higher than in Western countries. This is mainly due to the limited care in rural areas. Women sometimes have to walk for hours and cross several rivers to receive care.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Guyana?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Guyana?

  • Guyana is not a very safe country. Violent crime is quite common and there are tensions between Guyana and Venezuela. Pickpocketing and armed robberies occur, especially in Georgetown. It is therefore not recommended to go out alone in the evening.
  • There are disturbances at the border with Suriname and the border with Venezuela. Always use the official border crossings.
  • Flooding is a risk during the rainy season. There can also be major tropical storms that damage roads and infrastructure.
  • Political and social unrest occurs occasionally, especially during election periods.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Guyana?

  • Various tropical diseases occur in Guyana. Protect yourself well against mosquitoes and discuss the necessary vaccinations with a doctor well in advance.
  • HIV/AIDS is common, it is recommended to take this into account.
  • Diseases that are transmitted through water are also common. Always drink boiled or filtered water.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Guyana?

  • The roads are not really in good condition in Guyana. In recent years, good roads have been built in the capital, but outside of it, it is quite bumpy.
  • There are many accidents. That is not surprising when cars, cyclists, cattle, pedestrians, sleeping animals and aggressive drivers all share the same roads. There is a lot of reckless and aggressive driving and traffic rules are not always followed.
  • Minibus drivers in particular are known for their reckless driving and poor vehicle maintenance. Most accidents occur with minibuses, so it is better to avoid them.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory and using a phone while driving (unless hands-free) is illegal.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Guyana?

  • Is the trip to Guyana and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Guyana if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Good international health insurance is a must in Guyana to avoid financial surprises when you have to be evacuated abroad for medical care.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Guyana: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

Image

Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and posibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.

Check out more about

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

Why should you take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is insurance for traveling abroad?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back home urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies on domestic trips.
  • With annual travel insurance or multi-trip travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance or single-trip travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.

Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are abroad.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you plan to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at cost price of your home country.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.

What is important to insure when you are going to travel abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries that you are going to visit.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your travels.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for working abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for paid work, voluntary work or an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your national health insurance coverage may expire. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During your work, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage.

What is important to insure when you are going to work abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for volunteering abroad?

What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.

What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.

What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for studying abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.

What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.

Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.

What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why should you take out travel insurance and why through the JoHo Foundation?

Why Insurances through JoHo

  • Specialized: in emigration, work, internships, study and travel abroad.

  • Service: JoHo offers multiple travel insurances by multiple companies. Thanks to JoHo's extensive experience, it can offer support in case of problems with insurers, as well as advice and fast and personal handling.

  • Safe: JoHo is recognized as a trustworthy intermediary for insurances.

  • Social: by purchasing an insurance through JoHo you provide a talented student in The Philippines with health insurance

Why Should You Take Out A Travel Insurance?

  • The chance of getting injured or ill is generally higher than when you would have stayed at home. The medical care you will need can be very expensive, even more so if you are treated in a private clinic.

  • If you have to fly back because of family circumstances, the flights might be more expensive than your original flight because you have to fly on short notice.

  • You might have to deal with the damage, loss or theft of your luggage.

  • In case of emergency it can be difficult to figure out what to do. A good travel insurance will have an assistance team on standby for you 24/7 and will be able to tell you what steps to take.

Why Should You Specifically Take Out A Travel Insurance For A Long Trip Abroad?

  • Often regular travel or health insurances only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days).

  • Depending on your home country, your health insurance might not offer any coverage for treatment abroad.

  • During a long trip you might consider specific activities, like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances often don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous/ hazardous sports like skydiving, scuba-diving and bungee jumping.

More on why to use JoHo

  • JoHo is one of the few organizations where you can directly purchase a comprehensive range of foreign insurances from a variety of insurers. As with our other products and services, we believe that you should be able to choose between the best, the most cost effective and the most specialized insurance.

  • JoHo offers various possibilities from combining insurances to assisting in transferring from one insurer to another.

  • When you purchase an insurance policy through JoHo, you will not pay more than if you had purchased it directly from the insurer. Sometimes (through special collective agreements) you will even pay less.

  • JoHo offers support with problems that may arise with the insurer. Sometimes disagreement with claims, cancellation notice or insurance premiums can occur. In this situation it helps if you have the assistance of an organization who has an established relationship with the insurer.

 

Read more about JoHo and JoHo Insurances

Image

Safety and insurances in Guyana

How does healthcare work in Guyana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Guyana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Guyana?

What is the quality of healthcare in Guyana?

  • This tropical country offers the best healthcare in the Caribbean. However, it still falls short of the standards that people from Western countries are used to.
  • Guyana offers both public and private healthcare. The quality of care depends on where you are, with, as in most countries, the best care in the capital Georgetown. In remote areas, care is difficult to access or even non-existent.
  • All visitors to Guyana have access to healthcare, but most foreigners living in Guyana opt for private care or care in Colombia or the US. Medical evacuation is also sometimes necessary in the case of serious medical conditions or emergencies.
  • Pharmacies are mainly found in urban areas.
  • The emergency number for an ambulance is 913, but this only works in and around Georgetown. In other parts of the country, emergency medical care depends on local health centres and district hospitals.

How does the public healthcare system work in Guyana?

  • Guyana has a universal healthcare system. The Ministry of Public Health coordinates public healthcare. Healthcare is partly free for all residents of Guyana, but often there is an additional charge.
  • In the public healthcare institutions in Guyana, you will mainly find basic care. Unfortunately, the staff and resources are often limited.
  • The costs are low, or the care is even free, for residents.
  • Specialist care is very limited and sometimes only available in private clinics.
  • The Georgetown Public Hospital is the most important public hospital.

How does the private healthcare system work in Guyana?

  • Private healthcare in Guyana is a lot better than public healthcare, but very limited.
  • In private healthcare, you will find specialists, shorter waiting times and better medical facilities! The costs are a lot higher and you often have to pay in advance.
  • The private hospitals are only found in Georgetown. The well-known private institutions are St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and Woodlands Hospital.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Guyana?

General practitioners are available through the public health centres or through private healthcare. The latter is of course faster, but also more expensive.

How is the dentist arranged in Guyana?

  • There are both public and private dental care institutions. Most private institutions are sole proprietorships.
  • You can get basic dental care in the state hospitals.
  • Private dental care is of higher quality and offers more options. Many expats opt for a private clinic.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Guyana?

  • Basic pregnancy care is available in the public hospitals, but the quality varies. In general, private care is more comfortable and the monitoring is better.
  • Infant mortality in Guyana is higher than in Western countries. This is mainly due to the limited care in rural areas. Women sometimes have to walk for hours and cross several rivers to receive care.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Guyana?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Guyana?

  • Guyana is not a very safe country. Violent crime is quite common and there are tensions between Guyana and Venezuela. Pickpocketing and armed robberies occur, especially in Georgetown. It is therefore not recommended to go out alone in the evening.
  • There are disturbances at the border with Suriname and the border with Venezuela. Always use the official border crossings.
  • Flooding is a risk during the rainy season. There can also be major tropical storms that damage roads and infrastructure.
  • Political and social unrest occurs occasionally, especially during election periods.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Guyana?

  • Various tropical diseases occur in Guyana. Protect yourself well against mosquitoes and discuss the necessary vaccinations with a doctor well in advance.
  • HIV/AIDS is common, it is recommended to take this into account.
  • Diseases that are transmitted through water are also common. Always drink boiled or filtered water.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Guyana?

  • The roads are not really in good condition in Guyana. In recent years, good roads have been built in the capital, but outside of it, it is quite bumpy.
  • There are many accidents. That is not surprising when cars, cyclists, cattle, pedestrians, sleeping animals and aggressive drivers all share the same roads. There is a lot of reckless and aggressive driving and traffic rules are not always followed.
  • Minibus drivers in particular are known for their reckless driving and poor vehicle maintenance. Most accidents occur with minibuses, so it is better to avoid them.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory and using a phone while driving (unless hands-free) is illegal.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Guyana?

  • Is the trip to Guyana and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Guyana if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Good international health insurance is a must in Guyana to avoid financial surprises when you have to be evacuated abroad for medical care.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

Image ACTIVITIES

Check courses, jobs, projects, recipes, suggestions and tips related to: 'Guyana'

CHECK MORE ACTIVITIES

Make a selection, to find more tips than you see below

Image Do you like a challenge? Help develop a local cultural and ecological center in Guyana
Do you like a challenge? Help develop a local cultural and ecological center in Guyana. The project is looking for women skilled in giving training, developing...
Activities abroad: home bundle

Main content and contributions for activities abroad

,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

 

Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Bundled content for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Access: 
      Public

      Image STORIES

      Check blogs, experiences and information related to: 'Guyana'

      CHECK MORE STORIES

      Make a selection, to find more blogs and contributions than you see below

      Image Guyana: Updates & Travel
      The South American Guyana, located between Venezuela and Suriname, is known for large areas of rainforest where waterfalls can be seen that are among the largest in the...
      Image How does healthcare work in Guyana, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
      How does the healthcare system work in Guyana? What is the quality of healthcare in Guyana? How does the public healthcare system work in Guyana? How does the private...
      Countries & Destinations: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about the countries and destinations in the world

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Africa: country bundles

      Africa: country bundles

      Access: 
      Public
      Asia: country bundles

      Asia: country bundles

      Country bundles of Asian countries

      Access: 
      Public
      Europe: country bundles

      Europe: country bundles

      Country bundles of European countries

      Access: 
      Public
      The Caribbean: country bundles

      Image ORGANIZATIONS

      Check sectors and organizations related to: 'Guyana'

      CHECK MORE ORGANIZATIONS

      Make a selection, to find more or other organizations than you see below

      Image Workaway
      Workaway has a database of hosts who offer volunteer work in exchange for accommodation and sometimes meals. There is a wide variety of work available, and the hosts...
      Organizations & Services: home bundle

      Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about organizations and their products and services

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together, learn to share and inspire with your experience

      Organizations: home page
      Organizations: for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting
      Organizations: for agriculture, grape picking, farming and vineyards
      Organizations: for animal protection, animal care and working with wildlife abroad
      Organizations: for au pairs, youth work and child care abroad
      Organizations: for bush camping and working at a campsite abroad
      Organizations: for catering, hospitality and entertainment abroad
      Organizations: for civil society and social work abroad
      Organizations: for corporate business services
      Organizations: for customer services abroad and help desks
      Organizations: for diving, snorkeling and water sports abroad
      Organizations: for education and schools abroad
      Organizations: for expatriate insurances, travel insurances, and emergency call centers
      Organizations: for gap year activities abroad and sabbaticals
      Organizations: for internship placement abroad
      Organizations: for insurances and finance abroad
      Organizations: for IT, engineering and construction
      Organizations: for language travel and language teaching abroad
      Organizations: for marketing, communication and PR
      Organizations: for mediation in au pairs, childcare and elderly care in the Netherlands
      Organizations: for moving, international relocation and transport abroad
      Organizations: for nature conservation, environmental protection and working in nature abroad
      Organizations: for nonprofit projects, development work and international cooperation
      Organizations: for online work as digital nomad, freelancer, or independent entrepreneur from abroad
      Organizations: for outdoor activities and sports
      Organizations: for providing accommodation and hospitality work in hotels, guesthouses, ecolodges and hostels abroad
      Organizations: for providing healthcare and working in medical care abroad
      Organizations: for psychological assistance and mental health care abroad
      Organizations: for real estate, brokerage abroad and property rental abroad
      Organizations: for research and scientific work abroad
      Organizations: for student support and student associations
      Organizations: for tour guidance and adventure tours abroad
      Organizations: for tourism and organized travel and leisure work abroad
      Organizations: for voluntary work mediation and project placement abroad
      Organizations: for yacht and shipping crew and working on a cruise ship abroad

      Image SUMMARIES

      Check summaries and study assistance related to: 'Guyana'

      CHECK MORE SUMMARIES

      No results found.

      Image

      SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

      FAVORITES
      Guyana: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Guyana?
      • Updates Guyana
      • Travel in Guyana?

        • The South American Guyana, located between Venezuela and Suriname, is known for large areas of rainforest where waterfalls can be seen that are among the largest in the world. In addition, the country is one o...
      Workaway

      Workaway has a database of hosts who offer volunteer work in exchange for accommodation and sometimes meals. There is a wide variety of work available, and the hosts also have very diverse cultural and philosophical views. 'Travel differently, connect globally' Through Workaway, you can find a host ...

      Image ALL CONTENT

      Search all related content within the topic: 'Guyana'

      ALL CONTENT WITHIN TOPIC

      Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

      Image

      TOPICS : check associated topics and more activities

      Check more: activities in WorldSupporter
      Check more: of the topic below
      Go abroad!
      Page topic

      Stories, tips and experiences from Guyana

      Submenu & Search

      Search only via club, country, goal, study, topic or sector