10 Things to Do in Umana Yana (1972), New Amsterdam, Guyana
Umana Yana, located in the heart of New Amsterdam, Guyana, is a unique and historically significant site. Built in 1972, Umana Yana is a traditional Amerindian structure that was constructed to serve as a meeting place for the indigenous people of Guyana. The structure, which is made of wood and thatched palm leaves, is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Guyana and is a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 things to do in Umana Yana, New Amsterdam, Guyana.
1. Visit the Umana Yana Museum: The Umana Yana Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the indigenous people of Guyana. The museum houses a variety of artifacts, photographs, and other items related to the Amerindians of Guyana. Visitors can also learn about the history of the Umana Yana structure itself.
2. Take a Guided Tour of Umana Yana: Umana Yana offers guided tours of the structure and its grounds. Tour guides provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history of the structure and the Amerindian people of Guyana.
3. Witness a Traditional Amerindian Dance Performance: Umana Yana is home to a variety of traditional Amerindian dance performances. Visitors can witness traditional dances such as the shak-shak, a dance performed by the Wai Wai people of Guyana.
4. Shop at the Umana Yana Craft Market: The Umana Yana Craft Market is the perfect place to purchase unique and handmade items from the Amerindians of Guyana. Visitors can purchase traditional clothing, jewelry, and other items.
5. Attend a Traditional Amerindian Ceremony: Umana Yana is the perfect place to witness traditional Amerindian ceremonies. Visitors can witness ceremonies such as the “Purification of the Land”, which is a ritual performed by the Wai Wai people of Guyana.
6. Visit the Umana Yana Library: The Umana Yana Library houses a variety of books related to the history and culture of the Amerindians of Guyana. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Amerindians through books, photographs, and other items.
7. Participate in a Traditional Amerindian Cooking Class: Umana Yana offers traditional Amerindian cooking classes. Visitors can learn how to prepare traditional Amerindian dishes such as cassava bread, pepperpot, and other dishes.
8. Take a Boat Ride on the Canje River: The Canje River is a popular destination for visitors to Umana Yana. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river and witness the lush vegetation and wildlife of the area.
9. Visit the Umana Yana Art Gallery: The Umana Yana Art Gallery is the perfect place to view artwork by the Amerindians of Guyana. Visitors can view traditional and contemporary artwork by Amerindian artists.
10. Enjoy a Meal at the Umana Yana Restaurant: Umana Yana is home to a restaurant that serves traditional Amerindian dishes. Visitors can enjoy a meal of traditional Amerindian dishes such as cassava bread, pepperpot, and other dishes.
Umana Yana is a unique and historically significant site that is a must-visit for anyone interested in the culture and history of the Amerindians of Guyana. With its museum, library, craft market, and other attractions, Umana Yana is the perfect place to experience the rich culture and history of the Amerindians of Guyana.