Is Guyana cashless?

Cash essential#146 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #31 of 35 in Americas

Short answer: Bring or withdraw enough cash for your trip. Cards will rarely help.

Top hotels in Georgetown take cards. Everywhere else, cash is needed.

16out of 100
Card acceptanceRarely or never
Cash neededBring plenty
Paying by phoneIn some places
ATM costsNot yet checked

Will my card work?

Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in Guyana.

Do I need cash?

Yes, plenty. Most payments in Guyana are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.

Local currency: Guyanese dollar (GYD)

How does tipping work?

10% in restaurants.

Mobile payments

  • MMG

Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.

Frequently asked questions

Is Guyana cashless?

Guyana scores 16/100 on Cashlessy (cash essential), ranking #146 of 197 countries. Top hotels in Georgetown take cards. Everywhere else, cash is needed.

Do I need cash in Guyana?

Yes, plenty. Most payments in Guyana are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.

Are credit cards accepted in Guyana?

Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in Guyana.

Do you tip in Guyana?

10% in restaurants.

Compare with Americas

Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.