The Guiding Traveler

Georgetown, Guyana — A Place Where Manatees Chill and Beer Hits Just Right

There’s something unexpectedly serene about Georgetown, Guyana. Between the buzzing energy of downtown and the soft rustle of palm-lined streets, there’s a secret that every local knows and every traveler should discover: the manatees in the National Park.

Yes, manatees—those gentle giants of the water. Right in the middle of the capital city.

The Manatees of Georgetown’s National Park 🐘🌿

Tucked into the National Park, just east of the city center, is a large pond where you can find a peaceful pod of West Indian manatees slowly drifting through the water like oversized marshmallows. These creatures are so chill, you might miss them at first glance—until a soft ripple breaks the water’s surface or a snout pokes up for air.

This isn’t a zoo or a fenced-in attraction. It’s public. It’s quiet. It’s unexpectedly magical. Bring a few fruits—locals say watermelon rinds and bananas are a favorite—and watch the manatees gently drift over to inspect the snack offering. Feeding them isn’t officially encouraged, but it’s part of the local rhythm. Just remember: respect their space, keep it clean, and don’t toss plastic.

I could’ve stayed for hours. There’s a kind of calm you don’t expect in a capital city, and it lives here—floating with the manatees under the Caribbean sun.

Banks Beer and Jerk Chicken: A Georgetown Tradition 🍺🔥

After a relaxed morning with the manatees, it’s time for something with more kick. Enter Banks Beer, the pride of Guyana and arguably one of the smoothest lagers in the Caribbean. It’s got a crisp, malty flavor with just enough bite to remind you that this isn’t your average beach beer. You’ll find it chilled to perfection at nearly every bar and roadside stand. Pro tip: It hits different after a long walk through the park.

Now pair that with jerk chicken.

We’re not in Jamaica—but don’t let that fool you. Georgetown has some of the best jerk chicken I’ve ever had outside of Kingston. You’ll smell it before you see it: charcoal smoke, sizzling fat, and that unmistakable scent of scotch bonnet, thyme, and allspice in the air. Walk toward the smoke. That’s the rule. Find a stall or pop-up stand (especially around Bourda Market), grab a styrofoam box of juicy jerk chicken and rice, and thank me later.

Final Thoughts

Georgetown isn’t loud about its treasures. The manatees won’t wave. The beer doesn’t come with a fancy bottle. The jerk chicken might come wrapped in foil with no Instagrammable plating in sight. But that’s the charm. This city keeps it real.

Whether you’re traveling through or staying for a while, make time for the National Park. Sit by the water. Watch the manatees. Sip a cold Banks. Let the spice of the chicken linger a little longer than it should.

And maybe, just maybe, you’ll leave Georgetown a little slower, a little fuller, and a whole lot more grounded than you came.

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