Plizio Visual Lab
Demerara Harbour Bridge
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Demerara Harbour Bridge is one of the longest floating bridges in the world and a vital transportation artery in Guyana. It connects the capital, Georgetown, on the east bank of the Demerara River to the West Demerara region on the west bank. Opened in 1978, the bridge stretches over a length of approximately two kilometers and consists of a series of steel deck sections supported by pontoons. A key engineering feature is its retractable span, which opens to allow large ocean-going vessels to pass through to upstream locations. Thousands of vehicles cross the bridge daily, making it a critical link for commercial goods and daily commuters. Although the bridge was originally designed for a 10-year lifespan, it has remained in service through rigorous continuous maintenance and monitoring. Despite ongoing plans for a new permanent fixed-span bridge, the Demerara Harbour Bridge remains an impressive engineering stopgap that has enabled the economic integration of Guyana's western regions.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: new line taxi · Independence Arch · St.Peter and St. Paul Roman Catholic Church
- Nearby: Wales (5 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
Visiting
The Demerara Harbour Bridge can be crossed by vehicle or on foot. A toll fee is charged for crossing; pedestrians typically pay a small amount.
Typical hours
The bridge is typically open 24 hours a day as it is a vital transport link. Toll booths usually operate extended hours during peak traffic times.
Photography
Photography is allowed from the bridge and the riverside areas. Be mindful of traffic and keep a safe distance for safety reasons.
Time needed
Crossing the bridge on foot takes about 15 to 20 minutes. By vehicle, the drive is shorter depending on traffic conditions.
Combine with
Combine the crossing with a visit to Georgetown, located just a few kilometers away. Local markets and restaurants are also found near the bridge.
Getting there
The bridge connects Georgetown with the west coast area. It is accessible by car, taxi, or public buses.
Insider tip
Cross the bridge outside peak hours to avoid waiting at the toll booth. Bring small change for the toll fee.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge was officially opened to traffic on July 2, 1978.
- It spans a total length of 1,851 meters (1.15 miles).
- The structure consists of 61 spans supported by floating pontoons.
- A retractable span allows for the passage of large maritime vessels.
- It is subject to strict tidal opening schedules for river traffic.
- The bridge was constructed by the British firm Mabey & Johnson.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Demerara Harbour Bridge (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Demerara Harbour Bridge?
It is about 2 km long and was once the world's longest floating bridge.
Is there a toll for the bridge?
Yes, a toll is collected for vehicles; pedestrians cannot cross it.
Does the bridge open for ships?
Yes, it retracts daily at fixed times to allow for ship traffic.
Which places does the bridge connect?
It connects the East Bank Demerara at Peter's Hall to the West Bank at Schoonord.
When was the bridge opened?
The bridge was commissioned in July 1978.
Demerara Harbour Bridge: where is it located?
Demerara Harbour Bridge is located in Guyana.
Demerara Harbour Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include new line taxi, Independence Arch, St.Peter and St. Paul Roman Catholic Church.
Demerara Harbour Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Demerara Harbour Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Demerara Harbour Bridge is one of the longest floating bridges in the world and a vital transportation artery in Guyana.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Guyana →
Nearby cities
Georgetown
Georgetown is an important administrative center and one of the most significant cities in Guyana's DE region.
Ruimveldt
Ruimveldt is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Better Hope
Better Hope is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Mahaica Village
Mahaica Village is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Beterverwagting
Beterverwagting is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Triumph
Triumph is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Buxton
Buxton is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Lusignan
Lusignan is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Annandale
Annandale is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Paradise
Paradise is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Georgetown City Hall
A neo-Gothic architectural gem often described as one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the Caribbean.
🗺️
Providence Stadium
The largest sports arena in Guyana, used for international cricket matches and major events.
Stabroek Market
A bustling historic market in Georgetown known for its iconic cast-iron clock tower.
Parliament Building
A striking Renaissance-style building in Georgetown serving as the seat of the National Assembly of Guyana.
Victoria Law Courts
A historic courthouse with imposing wooden architecture representing Guyana's judicial system.
🗺️
Guyana National Museum
A major museum exhibiting the flora, fauna, and historical artifacts of the country.
Georgetown Cenotaph
A war memorial in Georgetown commemorating the fallen of both World Wars.
🗺️
Non-Aligned Monument
A monument in Georgetown honoring the founders of the Non-Aligned Movement.
More places
Demerara Distillers
A world-famous rum distillery known for producing El Dorado rum.
Eccles Industrial Estate
A major manufacturing and logistics hub south of Georgetown.
🗺️
Banks DIH Brewery
One of the largest breweries and food producers in Guyana.
Stabroek Market
A prominent iron and steel building with a distinctive clock tower, the hub of commerce since 1881.
St. Andrew's Kirk
The oldest continuously used church in Georgetown, opened in 1818 and boasting a rich history.
Victoria Law Courts
A massive timber building housing the Supreme Court, named in honor of Queen Victoria.
John Fernandes Wharf
One of the main private port facilities in Georgetown.
Muneshwers Wharf
A busy cargo terminal in the capital handling international shipping.