Plizio Visual Lab

Umana Yana

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Umana Yana in Georgetown is a striking example of Guyanese indigenous architecture and serves as a national monument. It is a traditional 'benab,' a large conical structure originally built in 1972 by members of the Wai-Wai tribe for the Conference of Foreign Ministers of the Non-Aligned Movement. The name is derived from the Wai-Wai language and translates to 'meeting place of the people.' Standing approximately 26 meters high with a roof thatched with palm leaves, it embodies the cultural heritage of Guyana's Amerindian peoples within the colonial-influenced capital. Following the destruction of the original building by fire in 2014, a faithful reconstruction was completed on the same site in 2016. The construction process eschews the use of nails, instead employing traditional vines to bind the timber elements together. Today, the Umana Yana is used for state receptions, cultural exhibitions, and ceremonial occasions, symbolizing the unity and diversity of the Guyanese nation.

Location: Guyana
Nearby: Ruimveldt (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

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Visiting

Umana Yana is a public building and can be viewed from the outside at any time. The interior is only accessible during cultural events or by prior arrangement.

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Typical hours

As an open structure, the exterior areas are accessible 24 hours. During events, special opening hours apply and are posted locally.

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Photography

Photographing the exterior is allowed anytime; interior shots require permission. The woven palm-leaf roof provides interesting structural patterns.

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Time needed

For a brief exterior visit, 10 to 15 minutes are enough. If joining a guided tour or event, allow 30 to 60 minutes.

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Combine with

Umana Yana is located in central Georgetown, close to St. George's Cathedral and the Parliament building. The Botanical Garden and Seawall promenade are also within walking distance.

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Getting there

Umana Yana is easily reachable on foot from downtown Georgetown. Several bus lines stop nearby, and car parking is available.

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Insider tip

Ask at the nearby tourism office if a cultural event is taking place inside. That gives you the rare chance to see the traditional Wai-Wai craftwork from within.