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Georgetown Lighthouse
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Historical site
The Georgetown Lighthouse is a prominent historic landmark situated at the mouth of the Demerara River, guiding mariners since the early 19th century. While an initial wooden tower was erected by the Dutch in 1817, the current octagonal brick structure was completed in 1830 under British administration. Standing at a height of approximately 103 feet (31 meters), the tower has a commanding view of the capital city and the Atlantic coastline. Its distinct red and white vertical stripes make it easily identifiable from a distance. The lighthouse is a vital symbol of Georgetown's maritime history as a major trade hub during the colonial era. Despite the advent of modern GPS navigation, it remains a functioning aid for vessels navigating the harbor entrance. As one of the oldest standing structures in the city, it represents the endurance and safety of the port against the treacherous currents of the Guyanese coast.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: community center · Umana Yana · African Liberation Monument
- Nearby: Pouderoyen (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 181 | 117 | 94 | 144 | 315 | 314 | 302 | 193 | 102 | 103 | 181 | 257 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Georgetown Lighthouse stands at the mouth of the Demerara River and is visible from the outside at any time. Access to the interior is typically not permitted, but the grounds are publicly accessible.
Typical hours
The lighthouse has no fixed opening hours as it can only be viewed from the outside. The surrounding area is freely accessible during daylight hours.
Photography
Photography of the lighthouse from the outside is allowed at any time without restrictions. Drone photography requires permission from the relevant authorities.
Time needed
Allow 15-30 minutes to take photos and appreciate the location. Combine the visit with a stroll along Georgetown's waterfront promenade.
Combine with
The lighthouse is near Stabroek Market and Red House, both within walking distance. The Parliament Building and St. George's Cathedral are also in the area.
Getting there
The lighthouse is on Water Street in Georgetown, easily reachable on foot or by taxi. Numerous buses from the city center stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the lighthouse in the late afternoon for the best sunset light. Watch out for traffic when crossing the road - there is no crosswalk directly by the tower.
Geography
Facts
- The current lighthouse was built in 1830 to replace an 1817 wooden version.
- The tower stands 103 feet (31 meters) tall with an octagonal cross-section.
- Its beacon can be seen up to 16 nautical miles (30 km) out at sea.
- The distinctive red and white stripes were added to increase daytime visibility.
- It features a spiral staircase with 138 steps leading to the lantern room.
- The structure is listed as a national monument of Guyana.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Georgetown Lighthouse (10)
Chimney
Historic structure, remnant of a former industrial facility.
Kingston Methodist Church⛪ church
Church in the Kingston area, used for worship and community activities.
sea wall bandstand 1
Bandstand on the sea wall, used for performances and events.
Eve Leary Sports Ground🌳 park
Sports field in Georgetown, hosting football and athletics.
Theater Guild
Theater in Georgetown, staging local and international plays.
Walter Roth Museum🏛 museum
Museum in Georgetown, focusing on indigenous cultures.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you climb the lighthouse?
Yes, visitors can climb the stairs for a small fee and enjoy the view.
How tall is the lighthouse?
The lighthouse is about 103 feet (31 meters) tall and is painted with red and white stripes.
Where is the lighthouse located?
It is located on Water Street in Kingston, near the mouth of the Demerara River.
When was it built?
The current stone tower was completed in 1830 to replace an older wooden one.
Is there parking nearby?
There is limited on-street parking available along Water Street.
Georgetown Lighthouse: where is it located?
Georgetown Lighthouse is located in Guyana.
Georgetown Lighthouse: what is there to see?
Highlights include community center, Umana Yana, African Liberation Monument.
Georgetown Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Georgetown Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
The Georgetown Lighthouse is a prominent historic landmark situated at the mouth of the Demerara River, guiding mariners since the early 19th century.
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Georgetown City Hall
A neo-Gothic architectural gem often described as one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the Caribbean.
Pegasus Hotel Landmark
An iconic circular building in Georgetown recognized as one of the city's most famous modern landmarks.
Red House (Kamana Court)
A prominent red wooden building in Georgetown, now housing the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre.
Umana Yana
A traditional conical Wai-Wai style benab erected as a symbol of Guyana's indigenous culture.
State House
The official residence of the President of Guyana, a stately wooden building of historic significance.
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Guyana National Museum
A major museum exhibiting the flora, fauna, and historical artifacts of the country.
Walter Roth Museum
A museum dedicated to anthropology, preserving the indigenous culture and history of Guyana.
Georgetown Cenotaph
A war memorial in Georgetown commemorating the fallen of both World Wars.
More places
Austin House
The official residence of the Anglican Bishop of Guyana, a remarkable wooden house with deep architectural roots.
Red House
A historic 19th-century wooden building that formerly served as the residence of the Prime Minister.
State House
The official residence of the President of Guyana, a stately building constructed in 1858.
GNSC Wharf
Operated by the Guyana National Shipping Corporation.
Prime Minister's Residence
A historical building in Georgetown that has served as the official residence of the Prime Minister since independence.
🗺️
GNIC Wharf
The port facility of the Guyana National Industrial Company.
Port of Georgetown
The main port of Guyana, located at the mouth of the Demerara River.
Muneshwers Wharf
A busy cargo terminal in the capital handling international shipping.