Georgetown , Guyana

One Cent Magenta Stamp Tour with Lunch

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About this experience

A journey into the colonial history of Guyana and the story of the 1 cent Magenta, the world's rarest and most expensive postage stamp.

The One-Cent Magenta Stamp was first discovered by a 12-year-old schoolboy, L. Vernon Vaughan, amongst some family papers in the 1856 edition of The Royal Gazette, Georgetown, in 1873.

He sold it for six shillings, apparently convinced he could find a better stamp example, but no one ever has.

It was no longer an ordinary stamp, a disposable element on a newspaper that was itself disposable. From the 1870s, the one-cent magenta was prized, tucked away in closely watched storage cabinets in palaces or vaults in banks. It fits the definition of collected objects prescribed by the cultural historian Philipp Blom in 2011. Such things "are like holy relics," he wrote. "They have shed their original function and become totems."

This tour will bring you close to the home of the world's rarest stamp.

Available options

One Cent Magenta Stamp Tour with Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

soft drinks tea and coffee

Detailed itinerary

Our first stop is a visit to the Manatee Pond in the National Park . Manatee’s were depicted on Guyanese stamps in 1993.

Visit the Walter Rodney Archive and see an original copy of the Royal Gazette newspaper which the 1 cent magenta was found on

Visit the original site of the Royal Gazette newspaper who were commissioned to print the 1 cent Magenta in 1856.

Visit the Guyana Museum and see the original printing press that the 1 Cent Magenta Stamp was printed on. View the range of stamps that form part of the exhibition.

We then journey to the Parliament Building , the site of the first Post office in Guyana and view the original post box
This was the Post Office where the 1 cent Magenta Stamp was sold

Then go to the Philatelic shop in the Georgetown Post Office and view and maybe purchase the Guyanese Stamps and First Day Covers .

Visit the Tortoise Protective Haven where 12 giant yellow and red footed tortoises roam. The tortoises featured on the 2012 Reptiles of South America Stamp edition.

Then its off to the Secret Garden with the coconut palm and bamboo gazebo where Eon John will prepare a sumptuous meal of traditional British fare with a Guyanese twist which the young finder of the stamp and his uncle the original owner of the 1 cent magenta would have enjoyed
This will consist of Roast Beef, Yorkshire Pudding ,Roast Potatoes ,Baked Pumpkin,
Callaloo and Gravy . After which a delightful fresh fruit salad with coconut patisserie and coconut jelly
See the original Donald Duck comic that Walt Disney created in 1952 to chart Donald Ducks adventures into British Guinea to find the world’s rarest stamp and see photos of President Ali with the 1 cent Magenta in London

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Georgetown

Georgetown, the capital of Guyana, is a vibrant city blending colonial charm with tropical allure. Known for its historic architecture, lush green spaces, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique experience in the heart of South America.

Top Attractions

St. George's Cathedral

A stunning example of colonial architecture and one of the world's tallest wooden churches.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Botanical Gardens

A lush green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers.

Nature 2-3 hours Low (GYD 400)

Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology

A small but fascinating museum showcasing the indigenous cultures of Guyana.

Museum 1 hour Low (GYD 400)

Seawall

A scenic promenade along the coast, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Kaieteur National Park

Home to the magnificent Kaieteur Falls, one of the world's most powerful waterfalls.

Nature Full day Moderate to Expensive (tour packages vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pepperpot

A rich, spicy stew made with meat (usually beef, pork, or mutton), cassareep (a local seasoning), and a blend of spices.

Main dish Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Cookup Rice

A one-pot dish made with rice, beans, coconut milk, and various meats and vegetables.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Metemgee

A hearty dish made with okra, dasheen, green bananas, and other vegetables, cooked in a coconut milk sauce and served with rice.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Roti

A soft, fluffy flatbread made from wheat flour, often served with curry dishes.

Bread Vegetarian, but may contain allergens

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kaieteur National Park Whitewater rafting on the Essequibo River Jungle trekking in the Iwokrama Rainforest Sunbathing and swimming at the Seawall Yoga and meditation classes Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting the Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

February to April

This period offers the best weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

26-30°C 79-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Creolese, Hindustani, Portuguese, Indigenous languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Guyanese Dollar (GYD)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

240VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Georgetown is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Cheddi Jagan International Airport • 40 km from city center

By bus

Georgetown Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the most common form of transport and cover most areas of the city. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Downtown Subryanville Bel Air

Day trips

Kaieteur National Park

250 km from Georgetown • Full day

Home to the magnificent Kaieteur Falls, one of the world's most powerful waterfalls, surrounded by lush rainforest.

Orinduik Falls

150 km from Georgetown • Full day

A series of beautiful waterfalls on the border with Brazil, offering a unique swimming experience and stunning scenery.

Iwokrama Rainforest

120 km from Georgetown • Full day

A vast rainforest reserve offering a chance to explore Guyana's rich biodiversity and experience the Amazon rainforest.

Festivals

Guyana Independence Day • May 26th Guyana Republic Day • February 23rd Mashramani (Mashramani or Mash) • February 23rd (Republic Day)

Pro tips

Visit the local markets for an authentic shopping experience and to try local street food
Book a guided tour for day trips to ensure a safe and informative experience
Learn a few basic phrases in Creolese to connect with locals and show respect for their culture
Carry insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquito-borne diseases
Be patient and flexible, as things may not always go as planned in Guyana