New Amsterdam, Guyana Travel Guide

Explore New Amsterdam in Guyana, a town rich in history, nature, and culture. Discover colonial landmarks, vibrant festivals, and serene river landscapes in this hidden gem.

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Nestled along the eastern bank of the Berbice River, New Amsterdam is a picturesque town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As the second largest town in Guyana, New Amsterdam is a key destination for those looking to explore the rich heritage and serene landscapes of this South American country. Stroll through the town's charming streets and you will be greeted by colonial-era architecture, colorful markets, and friendly locals. The town's history dates back to the Dutch colonial period, which is evident in the well-preserved buildings and historical sites scattered throughout the area. Notable landmarks include the New Amsterdam Town Hall, the Mission Chapel, and the Berbice Bridge, which connects the town to other parts of the country. Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in and around New Amsterdam. The nearby Canje River is a hotspot for birdwatching, fishing, and boat tours. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife make it a perfect destination for eco-tourism. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Fort Nassau ruins, a historical site located just a short boat ride away, which offers a glimpse into the region's colonial past. New Amsterdam is also known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events. The annual Mashramani celebration, which marks Guyana's Republic Day, is a colorful and lively event that showcases the town's rich cultural diversity. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, and local cuisine during this festive period.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring New Amsterdam.

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and to experience the bustling atmosphere.
Hire a local guide to explore the Canje River for the best birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Check the schedule for the Berbice Bridge to ensure smooth travel plans as it has specific opening and closing times for river traffic.
Attend the Mashramani celebration if visiting in February to experience New Amsterdam's vibrant culture and festivities.
Bring insect repellent for outdoor activities, especially when visiting natural sites like the Canje River and Fort Nassau.

Explore New Amsterdam: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in New Amsterdam

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Museum Kura Hulanda

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Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue

Explore the Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Americas, steeped in history and architectural beauty in Curacao.

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Punda Love Heart

Discover the enchanting Punda Love Heart in Willemstad, Curaçao, a picturesque celebration of love and beauty amidst stunning Caribbean views.

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Rose Hall Market

Discover the heart of Guyanese culture at Rose Hall Market, where local flavors, crafts, and community come together in Port Mourant.

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Best landmarks in New Amsterdam

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New Amsterdam Market

Explore the New Amsterdam Market: A lively auto market offering local crafts, delicious food, and a vibrant cultural experience in Guyana.

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State House (Governor House)

Discover the rich colonial history and stunning architecture of the State House in New Amsterdam, a landmark that tells the story of Guyana's past.

3.0

Mission Chapel Congregational Church, New Amsterdam

Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Mission Chapel Congregational Church in New Amsterdam, a peaceful retreat for all travelers.

5.0

New Amsterdam Recreational Park

Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of New Amsterdam Recreational Park, a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities in Guyana.

1.0

Best restaurants in New Amsterdam

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Big B's Baksh Restaurant (Halall) - Rosignol

Experience authentic Halal cuisine at Big B's Baksh Restaurant in Rosignol - where every meal tells a story of flavor.

4.5

Sue Brothers

Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Sue Brothers in New Amsterdam Berbice – a culinary gem where tradition meets taste.

4.3

Future Sensation

Experience the essence of China at Future Sensation - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in New Amsterdam.

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Demico, New Amsterdam

Experience the rich flavors of Guyanese cuisine at Demico in New Amsterdam - where every meal tells a story.

3.6

Best bars in New Amsterdam

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Future Sensation

Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine at Future Sensation in New Amsterdam, a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

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Demico, New Amsterdam

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Demico, New Amsterdam, where local flavors come to life in a welcoming atmosphere.

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La Caribe Diner

Discover the authentic tastes of the Caribbean at La Caribe Diner in New Amsterdam, where every meal is a festive celebration of flavor.

4.0

C&M Bakery and Snackette

Discover the flavors of Guyana at C&M Bakery and Snackette, where every bite is a taste of local tradition and hospitality.

4.2

Best nightclubs in New Amsterdam

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Baroombar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Baroombar, Georgetown’s ultimate disco club, where music and dancing unite for an unforgettable night.

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Little Rock Suites

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and local charm at Little Rock Suites in Georgetown, your ideal home base for exploring Guyana's vibrant culture.

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Sweet Lips.

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Sweet Lips, Rosignol's top night club known for its vibrant atmosphere and unforgettable experiences.

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New Amsterdam Market

Explore New Amsterdam Market, a vibrant auto market in Guyana, where culture and commerce collide in a lively community atmosphere.

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Best shops in New Amsterdam

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J's Supermarket

Explore J's Supermarket in New Amsterdam for a delightful shopping experience, offering a variety of groceries, clothing, and local products.

4.2

B’s Mart

Discover the essence of Guyanese culture at B's Mart, your go-to grocery store for local and international delights in New Amsterdam.

4.5

A. Ally & Sons Superstore

Explore A. Ally & Sons Superstore in New Amsterdam for a fantastic shopping experience, featuring electronics, appliances, and local treasures.

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Lloyd & Kim's Fashion

Explore unique fashion and local treasures at Lloyd & Kim's Fashion, a vibrant variety store in New Amsterdam, Guyana.

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Explore New Amsterdam on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in New Amsterdam, mapped for you.

New Amsterdam Essentials

New Amsterdam is located in the East Berbice-Corentyne region of Guyana. The nearest international airport is Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Georgetown, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Georgetown, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to New Amsterdam. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a minibus for a more economical option.
New Amsterdam is a relatively small town, so many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and are an inexpensive way to get around. Public minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, but be aware that road conditions can vary.
The official currency in Guyana is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in New Amsterdam, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Georgetown before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
New Amsterdam is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas to be cautious of include the market areas and isolated neighborhoods at night. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The New Amsterdam Hospital is available for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be respectful in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly greeting or a nod is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience New Amsterdam like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Guyanese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the colonial-era buildings and the Canje River for a serene experience. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Berbice River.

When is the best time to visit New Amsterdam?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for New Amsterdam

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in New Amsterdam. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWah Gwan
  [Wa Guh-wan]
- GoodbyeLater
  [Lay-tuh]
- YesYa
  [Yah]
- NoNah
  [Nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlis/Tank yuh
  [Pleez/Tank yuh]
- Thank youTenkyuh
  [Ten-kyuh]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sarry
  [Pah-dun me/Sah-ree]
- How are you?How yuh deh?
  [How yuh deh]
- Fine. And you?Ah'right. An yuh?
  [Ah-ryt. An yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [Yuh speak Ing-glish]
- I don't understandMi nah ondastan
  [Mee nah und-uh-stan]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi waan see di menu, plis
  [Mee wahn see dee menu, pleez]
- I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [Mee nah eet meet]
- Cheers!Skaal!
  [Skahl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi waan pay, plis
  [Mee wahn pay, pleez]
- Help!He'p!
  [Heh-p]
- Go away!Gwan weh!
  [Gwan way]
- Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [Call dee Police]
- Call a doctor!Call a docta!
  [Call a dok-ta]
- I'm lostMi lost
  [Mee lost]
- I'm illMi sick
  [Mee sik]
- I'd like to buy...Mi waan buy...
  [Mee wahn buy]
- I'm just lookingMi jus ah look
  [Mee jus ah look]
- How much is it?Awee much it deh?
  [A-wee much it deh]
- That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [Dat too deer]
- Can you lower the price?Yuh can drop de price?
  [Yuh can drop dee price]
- What time is it?Awee time it deh?
  [A-wee time it deh]
- It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [It one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMahnin
  [Mahn-in]
- AfternoonAftanoon
  [Af-tuh-noon]
- EveningEvenin
  [Eve-nin]
- YesterdayYestadeh
  [Yes-ta-deh]
- TodayToday
  [To-day]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [To-mor-rah]
- 1One
  [Wun]
- 2Two
  [Too]
- 3Tree
  [Tree]
- 4Fo'
  [Foh]
- 5Five
  [Fyv]
- 6Six
  [Siks]
- 7Seven
  [Sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [Ayt]
- 9Nine
  [Nyne]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Weh deh...?
  [Way deh]
- What's the address?Wah deh address?
  [Wa deh address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh can show me (pan di map)?
  [Yuh can show me (pan dee map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wen de next (bus)?
  [Wen dee next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A tikkit (to ....)
  [A tik-kit (to ....)]

History of New Amsterdam

New Amsterdam, located in the East Berbice-Corentyne Region of Guyana, was originally established by the Dutch in the 18th century. The town was founded in 1791 and named after Amsterdam in the Netherlands. It quickly became an important administrative and commercial hub in the region.
During the Dutch colonial period, New Amsterdam served as the capital of the colony of Berbice. The town's layout and architecture were heavily influenced by Dutch designs. The presence of canals and Dutch-style buildings are a testament to this period, and some structures from this era still stand today.
In 1815, after the Napoleonic Wars, the British took control of New Amsterdam. Under British rule, the town continued to grow, benefiting from its strategic location along the Berbice River. The introduction of sugarcane plantations and the subsequent sugar industry boom contributed significantly to its economic prosperity.
The abolition of slavery in 1834 was a transformative period for New Amsterdam. The town's population saw a significant shift as freed African slaves settled in and around the area. This period also marked the beginning of indentured labor, primarily involving East Indians, which further diversified the cultural fabric of the town.
New Amsterdam is known for its rich cultural diversity, a legacy of its colonial past. The town is home to a variety of ethnic groups including Afro-Guyanese, Indo-Guyanese, Amerindians, and people of European descent. This blend is reflected in the town's festivals, cuisine, and religious practices.
The architectural landscape of New Amsterdam is a blend of colonial-era buildings and modern structures. Notable landmarks include the St. George's Anglican Church, which is one of the oldest buildings in the town, and the New Amsterdam Town Hall, a striking example of Victorian architecture.
Today, New Amsterdam is a bustling town that serves as a gateway to the hinterlands of Guyana. It retains much of its historical charm while embracing modernity. The town continues to be a center of trade, education, and healthcare in the region, making it an important focal point in Guyana.