Parika

For Estonian village, see Parika, Estonia.

Parika is a port village located in the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region of Guyana. Its ferry service is operated by the Ministry of Transportation, to and from the Essequibo Islands and West Demerara area. It is a hub for land transport, since it is a route stop for local taxis commonly called "buses."

Parika
Parika Stelling (Harbour) with a ferry in the background
Parika Location in Guyana
Coordinates: 6.8588°N 58.4252°W / 6.8588; -58.4252
Country	Guyana
Region	Essequibo Islands-West Demerara
Population  (2012)[1]
• Total	4,385

Overview

Parika is the end of the main road from Georgetown.^[2] In 2020, work started to upgrade the road from Demerara Harbour Bridge to Parika to a 2x2 lane dual carriageway.^[3]

Parika itself is a small town, however as a gateway to the western half of Guyana, it is always busy. It is best known for its market.^[4] Over 700 merchants own a stall on the market.^[5] Sunday is traditionally the busiest day of the week.^[4][5] Parika is home to a police station, post office, multiple hotels and a variety of restaurants.^[5]

Speed boat to Supenaam

Ferry services are offered to Bartica, Leguan Island, Wakenaam and Supenaam.^[6] The ferry to Bartica makes a stop at Fort Island.^[7] Cars need to be booked at least two hours in advance, and are not guaranteed a spot.^[8]