Every September, Guyana celebrates its indigenous history and culture through arts, crafts, food, games, performances and more.
Approximately 10% of Guyana’s population is indigenous, like Mark Andries, a member of the Makusi tribe (pictured steering a canoe on the Essequibo River). Members of the community fish with bows and arrows, make jewelry from seeds, feathers and shells with designs inspired by the environment and stories, and cook unforgettable traditional indigenous dishes such as roasted tacoma worms (a delicacy), cassava bread (a staple food) and pepper pot. Their sustainable lifestyles and practices help protect Guyana’s extraordinary biodiversity. Every September, Guyana celebrates Indigenous Heritage Month, celebrating the cultures of nine tribes – the Wallaus, Arawak, Carib, Akawaio, Alekna, Patamona, Makusi, Wapisiana and Waiwai – with indigenous arts and crafts, cuisine, games and performances. From Mabaruma in the north to Rupununi in the south, and even the makeshift Heritage Village in the capital, Georgetown, here are bucket-list experiences that blend Guyana’s past and present.
