Guyana: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Guyana

Guyana is on the northern coast of South America, between Venezuela, Brazil and Suriname. Most of the country is covered by rainforest, cut by wide rivers and grassy savannas. It is known for giant waterfalls, unusual wildlife and being the only South American country with English as its official language.

About Georgetown

Georgetown sits on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Demerara River, protected from the sea by a long seawall. It is known as the "Garden City of the Caribbean" and for its wooden St. George's Cathedral and Stabroek Market clock tower.

Fun facts about Guyana

1. Guyana is the only country in mainland South America where English is the official language.
2. Kaieteur Falls plunges about 226 metres in a single drop and is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.
3. The name Guyana comes from an Indigenous word usually translated as "land of many waters."
4. The national bird, the hoatzin, has chicks with two tiny claws on each wing to help them climb.
5. The giant Victoria water lily, shown on the coat of arms, has floating leaves that can grow up to 3 metres across.
6. More than 80 percent of Guyana is covered by forest, home to jaguars, giant otters and giant river fish.