Shopping Malls in Guyana: Complete Guide 2026

Guyana's retail landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once a country where shopping meant navigating the vibrant chaos of Stabroek Market or visiting colonial-era department stores on Water Street, today's Guyana boasts modern air-conditioned malls, international cinema chains, and even a Starbucks.

Fueled by the oil boom that has made Guyana the world's fastest-growing economy, the country is experiencing a retail revolution. With GDP growth averaging over 40% annually since 2020, malls are sprouting across the landscape at an unprecedented rate.

This guide covers everything from historic markets that have served Guyanese for over a century to the modern mega malls opening in 2026 and beyond.

The Historic Markets: Where It All Began

Before the era of air-conditioned malls, Guyana's retail heart beat in its traditional markets. These aren't just places to shop - they're living museums of Guyanese culture.

Stabroek Market's iconic clock tower has watched over Georgetown since 1881 (Photo: New World Review)

Stabroek Market

The most recognizable landmark in Georgetown, Stabroek Market has been a trading hub since at least 1792 when enslaved Africans were allowed to sell produce on Sundays under Dutch rule. The current iron structure - with its famous clock tower - was built in 1880-1881 by the Edgemoor Iron Company of Delaware, USA.

Covering approximately 80,000 square feet, the Victorian-era market is now 144 years old. The four-dialed clock was manufactured by E. Howard Company of Boston, and the iron bell from Sheffield, England once struck every half hour.

What to buy: Fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, gold jewelry, clothing, and authentic Guyanese souvenirs. The market is a sensory experience - the smells of fresh fish, tropical fruits, and Indian spices blend with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares in Creole, Hindi, and English.

Bourda Market

Opened in 1902, Bourda Market was built when Stabroek vendors needed temporary relocation during construction. The foundation stone was laid on December 12, 1902, and it accommodates over 2,328 stalls within 12,500 square feet.

Known for fresh produce and lower prices than Stabroek, Bourda remains a favorite among locals looking for the best deals on vegetables, fruits, and meats.

The Colonial Era: Department Stores of Old Georgetown

Before malls, Georgetown's retail scene was dominated by grand department stores along Water Street:

• Fogarty's Department Store (1892-2013) - Founded by Irish immigrant William Fogarty, this iconic store survived the devastating 1945 fire and reopened in 1950 with 24 departments. It was sold to Trinidad-based American Stores Ltd in 2013.
• Bookers Stores - So dominant that Guyana was once nicknamed "Bookers Guiana" (B.G.). They were the largest business organization in Guyana and the Caribbean, now operating as Guyana Stores Limited.
• Other historic stores: Weiting & Richter, Bettancourts, J.P. Santos, Geddes Grant, and Hutchinsons

The Modern Mall Era

The transformation began in 2015 when Giftland Mall opened its doors - marking the first time a modern shopping mall was commissioned in Guyana. Since then, the pace of development has been remarkable.

Current Malls in Guyana

Giftland Mall - Guyana's first modern shopping destination (Photo: Guyana Chronicle)

MovieTowne - bringing world-class entertainment to Guyana (Photo: News Room Guyana)

Amazonia Mall - Ramnaresh Sarwan's state-of-the-art retail destination (Photo: Guyana Chronicle)

Royal International Hotel & Mall - Georgetown's newest hospitality destination (Photo: Kaieteur News)

Upcoming Malls: What's Coming Next

With Guyana's economy booming, several major retail developments are in various stages of construction:

Shopping Tips for Visitors

• Currency: Guyanese Dollar (GYD). US dollars widely accepted at malls, but you'll get better rates paying in GYD.
• Credit cards: Accepted at all modern malls. Visa and Mastercard preferred.
• Best deals: Traditional markets like Stabroek and Bourda for souvenirs and local goods.
• Air conditioning: Modern malls are fully air-conditioned - a welcome escape from Georgetown's heat.
• Transportation: Taxis to malls are affordable. Giftland and MovieTowne are about 15 minutes from central Georgetown.
• Safety: Malls are safe and family-friendly. Traditional markets require more awareness of your belongings.

What This Means for Tourism

Guyana's mall boom reflects broader changes that benefit tourists:

• International brands: Starbucks, Hard Rock Cafe, P.F. Chang's, and major fast-food chains are now available
• Modern entertainment: World-class cinema experiences at Giftland, MovieTowne, and Amazonia
• Dining options: From food courts to fine dining within mall complexes
• Convenience: One-stop shopping for everything from souvenirs to electronics
• Infrastructure: Modern facilities with reliable power, parking, and amenities

The retail transformation is part of Guyana's larger modernization driven by oil revenues. For visitors, it means the conveniences of developed markets combined with the authentic experiences of traditional Guyanese culture - the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

From the bustling aisles of Stabroek Market to the gleaming corridors of Giftland Mall, Guyana's retail story is one of remarkable transformation. The country that was once "Bookers Guiana" now hosts over 100 shopping centers, with more on the way.

Whether you prefer the authentic experience of haggling at a traditional market or the modern convenience of air-conditioned shopping, Guyana now offers both. And with new developments like the ANSA McAL Chateau Margot Mall and Sheriff Mall on the horizon, the retail revolution shows no signs of slowing down.

For visitors, this means more options, more convenience, and more reasons to extend your stay in this rapidly developing South American gem.