Let me be honest with you: staying connected in Guyana requires planning. This isn't Bali or Portugal where you can pop into any cafe and work remotely with blazing-fast WiFi. Guyana is one of South America's last frontiers, with vast rainforests, sparse population, and telecommunications infrastructure that's still catching up to the country's recent oil-boom development.
But here's the good news: if you're prepared, you absolutely can stay connected. Georgetown has decent mobile data and hotel WiFi, popular tourist destinations have coverage, and Starlink has just arrived to connect remote areas. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting online in Guyana.
The Two Mobile Carriers: Digicel vs GTT
Guyana has exactly two mobile network operators, and both offer prepaid SIM cards to tourists. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right one for your trip.
Digicel Guyana
Best for: Tourists who want convenience and slightly better coverage
- Coverage: Slightly better 4G/LTE coverage in populated areas and tourist destinations
- Airport availability: Yes - Digicel has a kiosk at Cheddi Jagan International Airport
- SIM card cost: 2,000 GYD (~$9.55 USD)
- eSIM: Not available
- Activation: Dial *136# for data plans
- App: MyDigicel app for account management
GTT (Guyana Telephone & Telegraph)
Best for: Longer stays, budget travelers, and those wanting more plan options
- Coverage: Good coverage in coastal/urban areas, slightly less extensive than Digicel
- Airport availability: No - must purchase in Georgetown or towns
- SIM card cost: 1,500-2,000 GYD (~$7-10 USD)
- eSIM: Available at GTT retail stores (500 GYD upgrade, 2,000 GYD new)
- Activation: Dial *100# for menu, *100*2# for social plans
- Advantage: More plan variety and competitive pricing
Quick Carrier Comparison
| Feature | Digicel | GTT |
|---|---|---|
| 4G/LTE Coverage | Slightly better | Good |
| Airport SIM | Yes | No |
| eSIM Support | No | Yes (in-store) |
| Plan Variety | Standard | More options |
| Data Rollover | Limited | Yes (24hr window) |
| Social Media Plans | No | Yes (unlimited social) |
| Tourist Friendly | Very | Moderate |
Digital Nomad Recommendation
For most tourists, grab a Digicel SIM at the airport for convenience. If you're staying longer than 2 weeks or want better value, pick up a GTT SIM in Georgetown and explore their Social Plans which include unlimited WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.
Where to Buy a SIM Card
At the Airport
Digicel has a kiosk at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO). It's located in the arrivals area after you clear immigration and customs. Hours can be irregular, so if arriving on a late flight, you may need to wait until Georgetown.
GTT does not sell SIM cards at the airport. You'll need to purchase from their retail stores in Georgetown or other towns.
Airport Pricing Note
Airport SIM card prices may be slightly higher than in-town stores. Some travelers report the airport kiosk being unstaffed. Have a backup plan: your hotel can help you get a SIM, or use hotel WiFi until you reach a store.
In Georgetown
Both carriers have multiple retail stores and authorized dealers throughout Georgetown:
- Digicel Main Store: Church Street, Georgetown (near the market)
- GTT Flagship Store: Brickdam, Georgetown
- Authorized vendors: Grocery stores, pharmacies, electronics shops, gas stations
- Shopping centers: Giftland Mall, MovieTowne, and other malls have carrier stores
What You Need to Buy a SIM
- Passport: Required for registration
- Cash: Guyanese dollars preferred (US dollars sometimes accepted at airport)
- Unlocked phone: Your phone must be unlocked to use a local SIM
Guyana has no restrictions on foreigners purchasing SIM cards. The process takes about 5-10 minutes. Staff will help you activate the SIM and can recommend the best data package for your stay.
Data Packages and Pricing
Full disclosure: Guyana has some of the most expensive mobile data rates in South America. Don't expect the cheap unlimited data you might find in Thailand or Mexico. However, local rates are still far cheaper than international roaming.
Digicel Prepaid Data Plans
| Data | Price (GYD) | Price (USD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300 MB | $570 | ~$2.70 | 2 days |
| 1.3 GB | $1,600 | ~$7.65 | 7 days |
| 3.5 GB | $3,800 | ~$18.15 | 30 days |
Activate by dialing *136# and selecting your plan, or use the MyDigicel app.
GTT Prepaid Data Plans
| Plan Type | Price (GYD) | Price (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social 1-Day | $400 | ~$1.90 | 1GB + unlimited social + 10 min calls |
| Weekly Bundle | $1,500 | ~$7.15 | 1.5GB + 40 min + 80 SMS (7 days) |
| Social Monthly | $3,500 | ~$16.75 | 35GB + unlimited social + unlimited on-net calls |
| Monthly Bundle | $5,250 | ~$25 | 5GB + 150 min + 250 SMS (30 days) |
| Data Only 4GB | $3,499 | ~$16.70 | 4GB data (30 days) |
Activate by dialing *100*2# for Social Plans or *100# for main menu.
Best Value Pick
GTT's Social Monthly Plan at $3,500 GYD (~$17 USD) is the best value for connected travelers. You get 35GB of "other use" data plus unlimited WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram - perfect for staying in touch and light work.
How to Top Up Your SIM
Running low on credit? Here are all the ways to add balance to your Guyanese SIM:
In Guyana
- Voucher cards: Buy at grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, kiosks everywhere
- Carrier stores: Staff can add credit directly to your account
- Dial-in: Digicel *136# | GTT *100#
- Apps: MyDigicel app (Digicel) accepts cards
From Abroad (Send Credit to Yourself or Others)
- Digicel Top-Up: topup.digicelgroup.com
- BOSS Revolution: bossrevolution.com
- Ding: ding.com
- eTopUpOnline: etopuponline.com
- Recharge.com: recharge.com
Check Your Balance
- Digicel: *120# (credit balance) | *123# (data balance)
- GTT: *100# and follow prompts
eSIM Options for Guyana
If your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XS/11 and newer, many Android flagships), you have several options that let you arrive already connected.
Local eSIM: GTT
GTT offers eSIM, but you must activate it in person at a GTT retail store. It's not available for remote purchase. Pricing:
- Existing GTT customer upgrade: 500 GYD (~$2.40)
- New customer: 2,000 GYD (~$9.55) with 1,000 GYD credit included
- Compatible devices: iPhone 11 and newer (US versions), select iOS devices
Travel eSIM Providers
These international eSIM services work in Guyana and can be purchased before you arrive:
Airalo
From $9
1GB-20GB options
Works with local carriers
Data-only plans
Holafly
$11.90+
Unlimited data available
1-30 day plans
Premium pricing
Saily
Great rates
Budget-friendly
Security features included
Good value
Nomad
Competitive
Local carrier coverage
Easy app setup
Multiple plan sizes
eSIM Pro Tip
Purchase and install your travel eSIM before leaving home. Activate it when you land in Guyana. This ensures you have data immediately for maps, Uber alternatives, and contacting your accommodation - without hunting for a SIM kiosk.
Coverage Reality Check
Here's the honest truth about where you will and won't have signal in Guyana:
Good Coverage Areas
Spotty/Fair Coverage
No/Very Limited Coverage
Interior Reality
Guyana's interior covers roughly 90% of the country but contains less than 10% of the population. Building cell towers in dense rainforest for tiny, dispersed villages is economically unfeasible. If you're visiting interior eco-lodges or doing multi-day jungle treks, plan to be offline. Let family know in advance and embrace the digital detox.
Starlink: Game-Changer for Remote Areas
In April 2025, Starlink officially launched in Guyana, and it's already transforming connectivity in remote areas. This is huge news for eco-lodges, interior communities, and travelers who need reliable internet in the hinterland.
Starlink Pricing in Guyana
| Plan | Monthly (GYD) | Monthly (USD) | Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Lite | $7,400 | ~$35 | Limited priority |
| Residential Standard | $11,000 | ~$52 | Unlimited |
| Roam (50GB) | $11,000 | ~$52 | 50GB portable |
| Roam Unlimited | $21,000 | ~$100 | Unlimited portable |
Equipment cost: $42,000-82,000 GYD ($200-390 USD) one-time purchase
What This Means for Travelers
- Eco-lodges: Many are installing Starlink - ask before booking if connectivity matters
- Remote work: Finally possible in Guyana's interior with the right setup
- Long-term visitors: Roam plan with portable dish could be worth the investment
- Research stations: Scientists and researchers now have reliable internet in the field
Starlink Tip
When booking interior eco-lodges, ask if they have Starlink. Lodges like Rewa Eco-Lodge and research stations are beginning to install it. This can make the difference between complete digital disconnection and being able to check in with work/family occasionally.
WiFi Availability
Hotels in Georgetown
Most mid-range and upscale hotels in Georgetown offer free WiFi:
- Guyana Marriott Hotel: Reliable high-speed WiFi throughout
- Pegasus Hotel: Free WiFi, generally decent speeds
- Four Points by Sheraton: High-speed WiFi included
- Aiden by Best Western: Free WiFi in rooms and public areas
- Budget guesthouses: WiFi quality varies significantly
Hotel WiFi Reality
Even in Georgetown's best hotels, don't expect fiber-like speeds. WiFi is generally good enough for email, social media, and video calls, but may struggle with large file uploads or HD streaming. For serious bandwidth needs, E-Networks fiber (up to 1Gbps) is available in Georgetown if you're renting an apartment.
Cafes and Public WiFi
Public WiFi is limited compared to digital nomad hubs:
- Some cafes in Georgetown offer WiFi (ask staff for password)
- Shopping malls (Giftland, MovieTowne) have WiFi in food courts
- Airport has WiFi (may require purchase or be time-limited)
- Public WiFi is not widespread outside Georgetown
Interior and Eco-Lodges
Connectivity varies dramatically:
- Some lodges: Have basic satellite internet or Starlink (slow or limited)
- Many lodges: Have no internet at all - this is intentional for the "unplugged" experience
- Staff usually have: Satellite phone for emergencies
- Always ask: When booking, clarify WiFi availability if it matters to you
International Roaming: Should You Use Your Home Plan?
You can use your US, Canadian, or UK phone plan in Guyana, but it's expensive. Here's what to expect:
US Carrier Roaming in Guyana
| Carrier | Plan/Option | Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | International Pass | $5-50 | 1-30 days, 15GB high-speed |
| T-Mobile | Basic International | Free (with plan) | Unlimited 2G, $0.25/min calls |
| AT&T | International Day Pass | $10/day | Uses your domestic plan |
| AT&T | Passport | $70/month | 2GB, $0.35/min calls |
| Verizon | TravelPass | $10-14/day | Uses your domestic plan |
| Verizon | International Monthly | $100/month | 20GB, 250 min calls |
Roaming Math
A 10-day trip using AT&T Day Pass = $100. A local SIM with 3.5GB data = ~$28 total (SIM + plan). Local SIM wins every time unless you're only staying 1-2 days. The only exception: if you absolutely must keep your home number active for business calls.
Better Alternatives
- Local SIM + WhatsApp: Use WhatsApp calling for free international calls over data
- Google Voice/Skype: Forward your US number, make calls over WiFi
- Travel eSIM: Keep your home SIM for SMS verification, eSIM for data
- Dual SIM phones: Run both simultaneously
Internet Speeds: What to Expect
Setting realistic expectations will prevent frustration:
Mobile Data Speeds
- Georgetown 4G: 10-30 Mbps download (good conditions)
- Coastal areas 4G: 5-20 Mbps
- 3G areas: 1-5 Mbps
- Edge/2G: Barely usable for anything beyond WhatsApp text
Fixed Internet (For Reference)
- E-Networks Fiber (Georgetown): Up to 1 Gbps download available
- Standard broadband: 10-100 Mbps in urban areas
- Rural areas: Often limited to mobile data or satellite
What Works / What Struggles
| Activity | Georgetown | Interior |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp messaging | Works great | Works (if signal) |
| WhatsApp calls | Good | Choppy/fails |
| Fast | Slow but works | |
| Social media browsing | Good | Slow |
| Video calls (Zoom) | Usually fine | Unlikely to work |
| Netflix/streaming | Works (not HD) | No |
| Large file uploads | Slow | No |
VPN Considerations
Good news: VPNs are completely legal in Guyana, and the internet is relatively free from censorship. However, you might still want a VPN for:
- Security on public WiFi: Hotel and cafe networks may not be secure
- Accessing streaming services: Netflix/Hulu libraries vary by region
- Work requirements: If your company requires VPN for security
- Privacy: General browsing privacy, especially for banking
VPN Recommendations
Popular VPNs like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and ProtonVPN work fine in Guyana. Keep in mind that VPNs will slightly slow your already-modest internet speeds. Only activate when you actually need it.
Apps That Work Well in Guyana
Essential Apps to Download Before Arrival
- WhatsApp: THE communication app in Guyana - everyone uses it
- Google Maps: Download Georgetown and Guyana maps for offline use
- Maps.me: Excellent offline maps, better for interior
- XE Currency: USD to GYD conversion
- MyDigicel/GTT apps: Manage your SIM account
- Google Translate: Download English pack offline (though English is official language)
Apps That May Struggle
- Uber/Lyft: Not available in Guyana (use local taxis)
- High-bandwidth streaming: Netflix, Disney+ will buffer frequently
- Video conferencing: Zoom/Teams work in Georgetown, unreliable elsewhere
Making International Calls
From Your Guyanese SIM
International calls from local carriers are expensive. Rates vary but expect to pay significantly more than local calls. Check rates by dialing *136# (Digicel) or *100# (GTT) before calling.
Better Options
- WhatsApp calls: Free over data/WiFi (most people in Guyana use this)
- Skype: Cheap rates to landlines and mobiles worldwide
- Google Voice: Free calls to US/Canada from the app
- Calling cards: Available at shops, competitive rates
For calling Guyana from abroad, the country code is +592.
Emergency Numbers
Guyana Emergency Numbers
Important: Ambulance service (913) only operates in and around Georgetown. In interior regions, contact your lodge/guide or local police for medical emergencies. There is no organized ambulance service outside the capital region.
Digital Nomad Reality Check
Can you work remotely from Guyana? Here's the honest assessment:
Georgetown: Yes, With Patience
- Hotel WiFi and mobile data sufficient for most remote work
- Video calls possible but may have occasional issues
- Cafes with reliable work WiFi are limited
- Consider Airbnb with E-Networks fiber for serious work
- Power outages happen - have phone charged as backup hotspot
Interior: No (Unless Starlink)
- Most eco-lodges have no reliable internet
- This is a feature, not a bug - embrace the disconnection
- Ask about Starlink when booking if connectivity is essential
- Schedule interior trips between work commitments
- Satellite messengers (Garmin InReach) for emergencies only
Planning Your Guyana Adventure?
Now that you know how to stay connected, explore our complete guides to planning your trip.
Plan Your TripFrequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a SIM card at Guyana airport?
Yes, Digicel has a kiosk at Cheddi Jagan International Airport where you can buy a SIM card upon arrival. GTT is not available at the airport. Bring your passport for registration. The SIM costs around 2,000 GYD ($9.55 USD).
Which carrier is better - Digicel or GTT?
Digicel has slightly better 4G coverage and is more tourist-friendly (airport availability). GTT offers more plan variety and better value with Social Plans that include unlimited messaging apps. For most tourists, Digicel's convenience wins. For longer stays, GTT's plans offer better value.
Is there cell coverage in the rainforest?
Very limited. Expect good coverage in Georgetown, coastal areas, and major tourist destinations. Deep rainforest, remote indigenous communities, and most of the interior have spotty or no coverage. Plan to be offline during interior adventures.
Does Guyana have eSIM?
GTT offers eSIM at their retail stores (not online). Digicel doesn't offer eSIM. Alternatively, travel eSIM providers like Airalo, Holafly, and Saily offer Guyana data plans you can purchase before arrival.
How expensive is mobile data in Guyana?
Guyana has some of the highest mobile data rates in South America. Expect to pay around $1,600 GYD ($7.65 USD) for 1.3GB weekly on Digicel, or $3,500 GYD ($16.75 USD) for 35GB monthly on GTT. Still much cheaper than international roaming.
Is Starlink available in Guyana?
Yes! Starlink launched in April 2025. Plans start at GYD $7,400/month. This is a game-changer for remote eco-lodges and interior communities. Ask lodges if they have Starlink when booking.
Should I use international roaming from my US carrier?
Only if staying 1-2 days. At $10-14/day for AT&T and Verizon, roaming costs add up quickly. A local SIM with data costs under $30 total for most trips. T-Mobile has better international options but still pricier than local.
How do I make international calls from Guyana?
The cheapest way is WhatsApp calling over data/WiFi (free). Traditional international calls from local SIMs are expensive. Skype and Google Voice offer cheap rates. For Guyana's country code, use +592.
Final Connectivity Tips
- Download offline maps before leaving Georgetown - Google Maps and Maps.me both support this
- WhatsApp is king - download it if you don't have it; all locals use it
- Charge your devices fully before interior trips; power may be generator-based on schedules
- Bring a power bank - preferably 20,000mAh or larger for multi-day jungle trips
- Set expectations with work/family before interior adventures - you may be unreachable for days
- Embrace the disconnect - Guyana's remoteness is part of its magic
- Keep receipts of SIM purchase and top-ups in case of issues
Last updated: January 20, 2026. Mobile carrier plans and pricing change frequently. Verify current rates at Digicel and GTT stores or websites. Starlink availability expanding - check starlink.com for latest coverage. Need more travel info? Check our visitor essentials guide or contact us.