Getting around Guyana is an adventure in itself. Unlike most countries, Guyana's transportation infrastructure reflects its unique geography — dense rainforest covering 80% of the country, major rivers serving as natural highways, and vast distances between communities. Understanding your options will help you plan the perfect trip.
This guide covers every transportation option available, from domestic flights and bush planes to minibuses, taxis, 4x4 rentals, and river boats. Whether you're backpacking on a budget or organizing a luxury wildlife tour, we've got the information you need.
Overview: How Transportation Works in Guyana
Guyana's transportation breaks down into distinct categories based on where you're traveling:
- Georgetown & Coastal Areas: Minibuses, taxis, and private vehicles on paved roads
- Interior Destinations: Domestic flights, 4x4 vehicles on unpaved roads, or river boats
- Remote Communities: Bush planes to grass airstrips or boats along rivers
Key Insight
Most tourists visiting the interior (Iwokrama, Rupununi, Kaieteur) book through tour operators who handle all transportation logistics. This is the easiest and often most cost-effective approach for wildlife and rainforest destinations.
Domestic Flights
For distances over 200km, flying is usually the best option. Several airlines serve interior destinations with regular and charter flights.
Major Domestic Airlines
- Trans Guyana Airways (TGA) — Largest domestic carrier, scheduled flights to Lethem, Kaieteur
- Jags Aviation — Charter flights and scheduled services
- Roraima Airways — Charter flights to various interior destinations
- Air Services Limited (ASL) — Charter flights, medical evacuations
Typical costs: $150-250 USD one-way to interior destinations
| Route | Flight Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown → Lethem | 1.5 hours | $180-220 USD |
| Georgetown → Kaieteur Falls | 1 hour | $200-300 USD (day trip) |
| Georgetown → Annai | 1.25 hours | $160-200 USD |
| Georgetown → Orinduik Falls | 1.5 hours | $200-250 USD |
Luggage Restrictions
Small aircraft have strict weight limits. Most domestic flights allow only 9-12kg of luggage per person (including carry-on). Excess baggage may be charged $2-5 USD per kg or bumped to the next flight. Pack light in soft bags, not hard suitcases.
Bush Planes
Bush planes are small aircraft (typically Cessna 206, Cessna Caravan, or Britten-Norman Islander) that serve Guyana's 100+ interior airstrips. These grass or laterite strips serve remote communities, mining camps, and eco-lodges.
- Charter flights can be arranged to virtually any airstrip
- Cost depends on distance and aircraft size (expect $800-2000 USD per flight)
- Often the only practical way to reach very remote destinations
- Weather dependent — flights may be delayed or cancelled
Overland Travel: The Georgetown-Lethem Road
The main overland route into Guyana's interior is the Georgetown-Lethem road (also called the Linden-Lethem road). This 460km route passes through Iwokrama Rainforest and connects to Brazil at the Takutu River border.
Georgetown to Lethem Road Trip
- Distance: Approximately 460km
- Duration: 10-14 hours in dry season, longer in rainy season
- Road surface: Paved to Linden (100km), then unpaved laterite
- Vehicle required: 4x4 essential, especially in rainy season
- Fuel stops: Georgetown, Linden, Mabura, Annai, Lethem
Minibus fare: ~$50-70 USD | 4x4 rental: $100-150 USD/day
Scenic Route Highlights
The Georgetown-Lethem road passes through Iwokrama Rainforest, offering chances to spot wildlife including jaguars (especially at night). The transition from dense rainforest to open savannah as you approach the Rupununi is spectacular. Many travelers break the journey with overnight stays at Iwokrama or Annai.
Public Minibuses
Minibuses are Guyana's primary public transportation. They're cheap, frequent, and cover most routes along the coast and the main interior road.
Coastal Minibuses
- Frequent service between Georgetown and coastal towns
- Identified by route numbers or destination signs
- Flag them down anywhere along their route
- Pay the conductor in cash (Guyanese dollars)
- Fares typically under $5 USD for most coastal routes
| Route | Duration | Fare (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown → Parika | 1 hour | $2-3 USD |
| Georgetown → New Amsterdam | 2 hours | $4-6 USD |
| Georgetown → Linden | 1.5 hours | $3-4 USD |
| Georgetown → Lethem | 12-15 hours | $50-70 USD |
Interior Minibuses
Minibuses run to Lethem from Georgetown several times weekly. These are shared 4x4 vehicles that make the full journey on the unpaved road. Book through Lethem-Georgetown transport operators in Georgetown's Stabroek Market area.
What to Expect
Interior minibuses are basic — expect cramped conditions, multiple stops, and variable schedules. Bring food, water, and entertainment. The journey is an experience in itself but not for those seeking comfort. Most tourists prefer organized tours or private transfers.
Taxis in Guyana
Taxis are widely available in Georgetown and larger towns. They're an affordable and convenient option for getting around.
Taxi Information
- Identification: Taxis have "H" license plates (for "hire") in yellow
- Meters: Most taxis don't use meters — negotiate fares before entering
- Typical Georgetown fare: $3-10 USD within the city
- Airport transfer: $25-35 USD to/from Cheddi Jagan International Airport
- Availability: Easy to find at hotels, markets, and main roads
Taxi Apps
Ride-hailing services are emerging in Georgetown. Ask your hotel for current recommendations or book taxis through your accommodation for airport transfers and day trips.
4x4 Vehicle Rentals
Renting a 4x4 vehicle gives you freedom to explore at your own pace, but comes with responsibilities. Interior roads require experience and preparation.
Rental Information
- Rental companies: Several in Georgetown (Avis, Hertz, local operators)
- Regular car: $50-80 USD/day — coastal travel only
- 4x4 vehicle: $100-150 USD/day — required for interior
- Driver requirement: International driving permit recommended
- Insurance: Check coverage carefully; interior damage often excluded
- Side of road: Guyana drives on the LEFT
For interior travel, consider hiring a vehicle with driver. Local drivers know the roads, fuel stops, and can help if things go wrong. This typically costs $150-250 USD/day including vehicle and fuel.
Fuel Planning
Fuel stations are very limited in the interior. Fill up completely in Georgetown and Linden. Between Linden and Lethem, fuel is available at Mabura Hill, Annai, and Lethem — but availability can be inconsistent. Carry extra fuel on long journeys.
River Transportation
Rivers are Guyana's natural highways. For many communities, boats are the primary or only form of transport.
River Travel Options
- Public ferries: Cross major rivers (Essequibo, Berbice) at low cost
- Speedboats: Faster transport along rivers, arranged through lodges or operators
- Canoes/Corals: Traditional dugout canoes for smaller waterways
- Lodge transfers: Many interior lodges include boat transfers in packages
Key River Routes
- Parika to Bartica: Ferry crosses Essequibo River (2 hours, $5-10 USD)
- New Amsterdam to Rosignol: Berbice River crossing (20 minutes, $1-2 USD)
- Essequibo River: Services to islands and communities along the river
- Rupununi River: Boat access to lodges and communities in the Rupununi
River Travel Tips
River travel can be wet — sit in the middle of the boat and keep electronics in waterproof bags. Bring sun protection and water. Schedules are flexible; "boat time" in Guyana means patience is required. The journey is often as memorable as the destination.
Getting to Kaieteur Falls
Kaieteur Falls, the world's largest single-drop waterfall, is only accessible by air from Georgetown.
| Tour Type | Duration | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Kaieteur Only (day trip) | 4-5 hours | $250-350 USD |
| Kaieteur + Orinduik Falls | 6-7 hours | $350-450 USD |
| Kaieteur Overnight | 2 days | $500-700 USD |
Book Your Kaieteur Adventure
Experience the world's largest single-drop waterfall with guided tours from Georgetown.
View Kaieteur ToursTransportation Costs Summary
| Transport Type | Best For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown Minibus | City travel, budget | $0.50-2 USD |
| Georgetown Taxi | Convenience, safety | $3-15 USD |
| Coastal Minibus | Coastal towns | $2-10 USD |
| Domestic Flight | Interior destinations | $150-300 USD |
| 4x4 Rental | Independent travel | $100-150 USD/day |
| Tour Package | Wildlife, rainforest | $200-500 USD/day |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Georgetown to the interior of Guyana?
You have two main options: domestic flights (1-2 hours to most destinations, $150-400 USD round trip) or overland by 4x4 vehicle (5-12 hours depending on destination). Most tour operators arrange transportation as part of packages. The Georgetown-Lethem road is the main overland route to the Rupununi.
Are there domestic flights in Guyana?
Yes, several airlines operate domestic flights including Trans Guyana Airways, Jags Aviation, and Roraima Airways. Flights serve Lethem, Kaieteur, Annai, and many interior communities. Book in advance as seats are limited. Luggage is typically restricted to 9-12kg.
How does the minibus system work in Guyana?
Minibuses are the main public transport in Georgetown and along the coast. They follow set routes identified by numbers or destinations on signs. Flag them down anywhere on their route, pay the conductor, and tell them where to stop. Fares are very cheap (under $1 USD for most trips). Service is frequent but can be crowded.
Can I rent a car in Guyana?
Yes, car rentals are available in Georgetown. For coastal areas, a regular car is fine. For interior travel, a 4x4 is essential. Expect to pay $60-150 USD/day depending on vehicle type. An international driving permit is recommended. Drive on the left side of the road.
How do river boats work for transportation?
Rivers are highways in the interior. Public boat services operate on major rivers like the Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice. Boats range from small speedboats to larger passenger vessels. Many lodges include boat transfers. Travel times can be several hours and schedules are flexible.
What are bush planes in Guyana?
Bush planes are small aircraft (typically Cessna Caravans or similar) that serve interior airstrips throughout Guyana. They land on grass strips in remote communities and lodges. Charter flights can be arranged for specific destinations. These are often the only practical way to reach very remote areas.
Last updated: January 2026. For more transportation details, see our Georgetown Transportation Guide and Guyana Driving Guide.