Tag: tourism

Visitors cap off biodiversity summit with immersive Iwokrama experience

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

As the curtains closed on the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit 2025, the spotlight shifted from panels and presentations to the living, breathing forest at the heart of Guyana.

Delegates and guests wrapped up the summit with a day-long visit to the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development – a model of sustainable forest use, biodiversity research, and Indigenous collaboration. For many, it was a chance to connect with the very landscapes and communities they had spent days discussing.

The day’s itinerary featured several guided eco-tours, each offering a different perspective of the forest’s richness. One of the highlights was the journey to Turtle Mountain, a forested peak located just 15 minutes downstream from the Iwokrama River Lodge by boat. From there, visitors embarked on an intense two-and-a-half-hour hike to the summit. Though the trail posed a gentle challenge, the panoramic view at the top – with the rainforest stretching endlessly in every direction and the Essequibo River weaving through the canopy – made every step worth it.

Along the way, hikers encountered black spider monkeys and spotted a variety of tropical birds, adding a thrilling wildlife element to the experience.

Other visitors opted for the “Close by Trails” tour, a slow-paced walk that highlighted the medicinal uses of local plants, guided by community tour leaders. Another group went further upstream, where the experience was more scenic and river-based, showcasing the area’s rich vegetation and tranquil rapids.

Back at the River Lodge, cultural pride took centre stage. Youth from the nearby Fair View Village shared traditional Makushi dances and songs, bringing stories of the land and people to life through performance. Guests were also treated to a cassava bread demonstration, where local women prepared the staple food using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Tourism Manager at Iwokrama, Michael Patterson, emphasised the significance of these experiences not just for visitors, but for the centre’s broader mission.

“Iwokrama plays a very crucial role as a mandate and the role of the administrative use of our model as sustainable use of forests,” Patterson said. He added: “Because we’re not dealing with just the forest, we also need people and that makes us think it’s very, very important to have an international form of dedication, to have a foresight of what’s happening in the culture.”

For many summit participants, the Iwokrama visit served as a powerful reminder that biodiversity is not just something to be discussed – it’s something to be lived, protected, and passed on. It exists in the trees, in the rivers, in the culture, and in the people who call the forest home.

Some of the delegates enjoying the river tour

Some of the delegates on arrival at Iwokrama

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo of Akawaio child earns Jasia Cornelius top spot in national contest

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Jasia Cornelius has emerged as the winner of the highly anticipated Snap and Share 59 Photography Competition, cementing her place among Guyana’s most talented up-and-coming photographers.

The announcement was made earlier today during a vibrant prize-giving ceremony at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Cornelius’ striking image — a captivating shot of a one-year-old Akawaio child standing in an open field in Omenaik Village, Imbaimadai (Region Seven) — received the highest number of likes among the 59 shortlisted entries, earning her the coveted top prize.

For her winning photo, she was awarded a $500,000 cash prize, a DSLR camera valued at $400,000 from the ministry, and a weekend getaway for two at Karanambu Lodge, courtesy of Karanambu.

The second prize went to Shavanne Fiedtkou, who received $300,000 in cash and a trip to Kaieteur Falls, sponsored by Evergreen Adventures. Kyle Joseph captured third place, winning $150,000 in cash and an ATV adventure sponsored by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).

Other top winners included: Quadad DeFreitas in fourth place with $100,000 and a GTA-sponsored Sunset Tour; Gilan Simon, fifth place, receiving $75,000 and a Sunset Tour for four, courtesy of The Off-Road Experience (TORE); and Chelsea Peters, sixth place, awarded $30,000 plus a restaurant voucher worth $30,000, courtesy of Cara Lodge Hotel.

In addition, Dena James received the special “Winner’s Choice” award for her stunning photograph of the Kopinang Waterfalls in Region Eight — an honour voted on by participants, sponsors, and officials.

The remaining Top 20 photographers include Amanda Richards, Lisa Lam, Luke McKenna, Sunita Mohabir, Amanda Ng-A-Fook, Loreen Anthony, Rivaldo Williams, Ella Sahai, Chris Elliman, Jennifer Persaud-Dipnarine, Nathan Chinapen, Shekesa Daniels, and Clifton Harry.

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond, praised the photographers for their role in showcasing Guyana’s beauty to the world. She highlighted that this year’s competition attracted more than 1,600 submissions, which collectively amassed over 16.8 million views and nearly 400,000 online engagements.

“This competition continues to demonstrate the power of citizen-driven tourism marketing,” Minister Walrond said, adding that “Each image posted helps to tell the story of Guyana, and every photographer plays a key role in marketing our country to the world.”

Now in its fifth year, the Snap and Share 59 Photography Competition has become a cornerstone for both amateur and professional photographers, inspiring Guyanese to share the nation’s rich natural and cultural heritage through their lenses.

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce expressed its gratitude to this year’s sponsors — including Evergreen Adventures, Karanambu, Cara Lodge, The Off-Road Experience, and Waikin Ranch — for their continued support in making the competition a success.

The top 59 images will be featured in the annual Snap and Share 59 Magazine, which is slated for publication before the end of 2025.

Cornelius receives her prize from Minister Walrond

Tourism boost: Lake View Cabins at Mainstay/Whyaka officially opened

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

The modern, self-contained cabins are designed to accommodate families and groups, and were formally declared open by Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister,

Oneidge Walrond, a release said.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Walrond described the facility as a meaningful addition to Region Two’s tourism product and a reflection of the government’s commitment to supporting community-owned and -led tourism development.

“The growth of Mainstay/Whyaka as a tourism destination reflects the direction we have been working towards as a government. Since 2020, under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the PPP/C Administration has made tourism a priority by focusing on it as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and Indigenous community development.”

Minister Walrond emphasised that the Lake View Cabins strengthen the region’s tourism circuit by creating employment, supporting local enterprises, and enhancing Mainstay’s reputation as a nature-based destination.

“What you are doing here today benefits Mainstay/Whyaka directly, but it also broadens the tourism product of Region Two and Guyana as a whole. It strengthens the region’s capacity to welcome visitors of various interests and backgrounds, while contributing to employment and economic growth.”

The minister also highlighted broader developments in Region Two’s tourism sector, including increased private sector investment and community-led initiatives. She noted that since 2020, more than 500 residents of Region Two have benefited from training in hospitality, business development, tour guiding, and emergency care, facilitated by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce through the Guyana Tourism Authority.

Toshao Marsha Williams described the project as the realisation of the community’s long-standing vision to develop sustainable tourism.

The project was spearheaded by members of the community, with support from national initiatives such as the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and Presidential Grants through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs.

A section of the gathering at the commissioning

Minister Walrond speaks at the commissioning

 

One of the cosy rooms

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guyana’s first destination booking engine launched

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with Breeze Travel Solutions (BTS) has launched Guyana’s first Destination Booking Engine, a dynamic digital platform designed to revolutionise the way travellers book tours and experiences across Guyana.

The platform is now live and available to travellers worldwide, a release said.

Seamlessly integrated into the destination website (booking.guyanatourism.com), the platform provides a centralised, user-friendly interface where travellers, travel agents, and tourism partners can discover, build, and book complete itineraries ranging from eco-lodge stays to jungle tours, cultural experiences, and local flights, all in one place.

“This initiative marks a major leap forward in modernising and digitising Guyana’s tourism sector,” said Kamrul Baksh, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority. “With this booking engine, we are putting Guyana’s unique experiences within easy reach of both global travellers and the travel trade industry.”

The platform will empower Guyana’s tourism sector by showcasing experiences exclusively from licensed operators, including tour companies, ecolodges, resorts, and hotels.

In line with Guyana’s commitment to quality assurance and visitor safety, only certified providers will be accessible through the booking engine. The platform also includes airlines serving Guyana, allowing visitors to plan end-to-end trips conveniently and securely.

Some of the platform’s highlights include a dynamic booking engine, where travellers can create custom packages that include accommodations, tours, flights, and transfers; an itinerary builder, where visitors and agents can easily design multi-stop themed journeys; and Secure Payment and Reporting Tools, which include invoicing, credit card processing, and performance tracking.

The destination booking platform is billed to be a transformational tool for the tourism sector, and with tourism contributing over US$396.5 million to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024, and the new booking engine is set to further boost this figure by expanding access to authentic, licensed experiences while streamlining the booking process for both visitors and agents.

“Our vision is to place Guyana firmly on the digital travel map,” said Casey Davey, CEO of Breeze Travel Solutions. “This platform empowers local businesses while making it easier than ever for travellers to explore the breathtaking beauty and cultural depth of Guyana.”

GlobalTT-Guyana launches “Dream Destinations 2025” campaign, announces major cruise partnership

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Global Tours and Travel (GlobalTT-Guyana) has officially launched its most ambitious tourism initiative to date— “Dream Destinations 2025”, a summer campaign promising an unmatched range of vacation experiences for Guyanese travellers.
The announcement was made during a media briefing held this morning at the Royal International Hotel in Georgetown, where two new destinations were launched–Mexico and the Dominical Republic.
The event brought together travel industry stakeholders, members of the media, and tourism enthusiasts eager to learn more about the company’s expansive plans.
According to GlobalTT-Guyana, the packages highlight some of the world’s most scenic coastlines, culturally rich cities, and entertainment-filled locations, offering travellers a range of options from relaxing getaways to high-adventure escapes.
The campaign is expected to appeal to a wide range of travellers—from families and couples to solo explorers, seeking quality, affordability, and convenience in international travel.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Waynewright Orderson said the packages are inclusive and targets travellers from every niche.
“We’re targeting everyone. Individuals, couples, families, groups, whoever wishes to take this opportunity, we are ready and prepared,” he noted.
Ambassador to Mexico in Guyana, Mauricio Vizcaíno-Crespo said there has been an increase of travellers to major destinations in Mexico.
He noted that while Guyanese nationals require a visa to Mexico, the process is currently being expedited, taking as little as 48 hours, especially for travellers with a United States, Canada, or Schengen visa.
“We’re very happy to see that more and more Guyanese are travelling to Mexico, particularly to our Caribbean side because, of course, we are also a Caribbean country. But we have also a Pacific side, Atlantic… we’re very happy that travel agents here are interested in showcasing what we have to offer in Mexico beyond that Caribbean side,” he said.
Diplomat at the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Guyana, Joel Encarnación Bernabel boasted about the exciting experiences which await travellers when they visit the destination, highlighting that travellers from Guyana do not need a visa to visit.
“The Dominican Republic, basically, it’s two hours and twenty minutes away from Guyana with direct flight SKYhigh Dominicana. And Punta Cana is one of the most tourist part in our country. Punta Cana is holding basically five million tourists a year visiting our country. The Dominican Republic offers a unique blend of experiences for every kind of traveller. From the beaches of Punta Cana to the high of Pico Duarte. The highest mountain in the Caribbean,” he said.
In a major development for the local tourism sector, the company also announced a new partnership with Carnival Cruise Line, one of the world’s leading cruise operators.
This collaboration will allow Guyanese travellers to access exclusive cruise packages and promotional rates, marking a significant step forward in connecting the local market with global travel opportunities.
More details about the destinations and booking options will be available through GlobalTT-Guyana’s website in the coming days.

Guyana emerging as new frontier for global tourism

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Guyana will no longer be the “best kept secret” of South America as it is poised to emerge as a dynamic new frontier for global tourism.

This is according to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who was at the time speaking at the commissioning of the King’s Hotel and Residences in Georgetown on Friday.

Guyana is actively targeting niche and high-value segments, such as medical tourism, wellness and spa retreats, agro-tourism, sports, and entertainment.

“We are now talking to some of the top-notch medical tourism facilities to establish their footprint here,” the president disclosed, adding that local investors are also being encouraged to help shape this future.

“We must be known as a destination for wellness and spa tourism, and we will have to bring people in because we want to create, in the rainforest of Linden, the best wellness experience,” he said.

From luxury eco-lodges in Pakuri to marina developments along the Demerara River and a port at Parika, Guyana is positioning itself as a tourism destination deeply connected to its natural landscape. But, the president said, the government is thinking even bigger.

Plans are underway to construct a world-class indoor stadium with a 15,000 capacity, designed to host boxing matches, concerts, and even Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) championships.

“The facility we want to build must be able to host the NBA playoffs,” he said, stating that a proposal was made to regional leaders to form a Caribbean NBA team, taking advantage of the region’s close proximity to the United States.

“These are the things we are thinking about, because we are in a season [of bold ideas],” President Ali said.

With these plans in motion, the head of state stressed that his administration is not offering ‘vague promises,’ but executing a clear and cohesive agenda to drive demand, attract investment, and reshape the economy.

The vision includes welcoming three million people through Guyana’s ports in the future, supported by world-class infrastructure, professional services, and a public-private ecosystem ready to deliver.

As new hotels like the King’s Hotel rise and the skyline transforms, President Ali made it clear that this is just the beginning of Guyana’s global ascent.

“We are not stopping. The journey has just begun,” the president declared. (DPI)

Air Transat to begin twice-weekly flights to Guyana in December

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

 

 

Guyana will welcome Canadian airline Air Transat in December 2025, marking a major milestone in the country’s aviation sector.

 

This is according to Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, who was at the time speaking at the launch of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines’ inaugural flight to Guyana at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri last Wednesday.

 

Guyana has welcomed air services from Dominican Republic carrier Sky Cana, British Airways, InterCaribbean Airways, JetBlue, Fly Always, Suriname Airways, and now KLM Royal Dutch Airlines — all within the past five years.

 

“June 4 marks the progress made in the aviation sector from 2020 to 2025. This [KLM Royal Dutch Airlines] is the ninth international carrier that I have had the opportunity to stand at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and welcome to Guyana… Our air navigation services in Guyana are second to none in this hemisphere,” Minister Edghill stated.

 

He added that it signifies Guyana’s growing prominence on the global stage.

 

“And I believe, with the good support and the rational, responsible actions of the Guyanese people on 16 December, we would be able to stand here and welcome the tenth — Air Transat from Canada,” he said.

 

Air Transat’s service will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 16 December 2025 to 24 April 2026.

 

The airline will operate the new route with the A321LR, an aircraft known for its efficiency. The A321LR provides passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience, featuring ergonomic cabins and a cutting-edge in-flight entertainment system. It also offers Club Class seating, allowing passengers to enjoy a premium travel experience to their destination.

 

Air Transat is a leading travel brand that was voted the 2024 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards.

 

In December 2024, Air Canada announced plans to launch direct flights between Guyana and Canada in 2025.

 

“Guyana and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport have been positioned as a major hub of connectivity, and we are serving because of our geographical location… The more carriers we get into the CJIA and into Guyana [will help us to] open up the world in positive ways,” the minister noted.

 

In addition to unlocking new commercial, tourism, and economic opportunities in Guyana and the Caribbean, these new airlines have greatly improved connectivity between numerous nations.

 

More than one million passengers have already arrived in Guyana so far in 2025, which represents a 15 per cent increase from the previous year.

 

All of these undertakings form part of the government’s plan to position Guyana as a critical hub for air travel. (DPI)

Creative Tourism Awards Open for Entries with UNESCO Backing

Posted on by Aliyah Persaud

Caribbean creatives and tourism innovators now have an opportunity to gain international recognition as the Creative Tourism Network, in partnership with UNESCO Transcultura, launches the Caribbean Creative Tourism Awards—a programme aimed at celebrating innovation, sustainability, and cultural excellence across the region.

This inaugural awards programme is designed to honour tourism products and services that merge culture, creativity, and community through immersive travel experiences, vibrant cultural events, unique accommodations, and inspired storytelling. From artistic residencies to authentic island tours, the awards spotlight the best the Caribbean has to offer.

Applicants can choose from a wide range of categories, including best destination, strategy, tourism experience, accommodations, event, travel agency or tour operator, artist residency or creative hub, creative services, and tourism promotion campaign. The awards are open to all cultural, creative, and tourism stakeholders across the Caribbean, offering a unique platform for individuals, organisations, and destinations to showcase their work on a global stage.

Entries must have been in operation for at least six months, except for submissions in the “Best Strategy” category, which may be conceptual or pending implementation. Participants may submit multiple proposals and may also enter the same project in several categories, maximizing their chances of being recognised.

The deadline for submissions is June 1, 2025, at 12:00 PM GMT. Applications can be completed through the official Google Forms link provided by the organisers:
[Apply here] https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1oPrrYM9kbr-pYAtFlLyTzeKvmSk50KXk3VnGvz_RpOQ/viewform?edit_requested=true

With the Caribbean already known globally for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Caribbean Creative Tourism Awards aim to elevate the region’s visibility as a hub for transformative, community-based travel experiences. It’s an initiative that not only empowers local stakeholders but also redefines the future of Caribbean tourism through the lens of sustainability and creativity.

For visionaries in the region who bring stories to life through art, hospitality, and immersive travel, this is a chance to step into the international spotlight—and show the world just how powerfully Caribbean culture can inspire.

Origins Guyana Fashion Festival set to debut with 40 designers

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Thirty-one local designers and nine international designers will participate in the Origins Guyana Fashion Festival, which is set to take place from 2–4 May in Georgetown.

The diverse line-up of designers will span several fashion disciplines, including African and Indian-inspired designs, Indigenous wear, contemporary fashion, jewellery, and other speciality lines.

In preparation for the event, minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, met with participating designers at the Railway Courtyard on Tuesday. She noted that local talent is being brought to the forefront through the festival.

“Guyana is brimming with untapped talent and creativity. The Origins Fashion Festival is a platform to elevate our designers, empower creatives, and spotlight Guyana as a serious player in the regional and international fashion industry,” the minister said.

She reminded attendees that the event is being organised to meet the highest standards and emphasised that the long-term vision extends far beyond this showcase.

 

“We are not just hosting a fashion show,” she noted. “We are laying the foundation for a resilient, professional fashion industry—one that generates sustainable livelihoods for our designers.”

 

In addition to runway shows, the festival will feature a series of industry-focused workshops and developmental activities aimed at building capacity within the creative sector. Event consultant and designer Keisha Edwards shared that the festival would include sessions on fashion illustration and design, the role of artificial intelligence in the creative economy, and professional make-up artistry.

 

“These workshops are essential courses that provide the technical foundation and business insights our creatives need to thrive in an evolving global industry,” Edwards explained.

 

Among the many creatives preparing to hit the runway, fashion illustrator and designer Roberto Teekah shared his enthusiasm about being part of the event.

 

“To be able to share the stage with both emerging talents and seasoned designers who have worked tirelessly to sustain and evolve Guyana’s fashion industry is inspiring,” Teekah said.

Similarly, Salina Cruickshank, founder of Sally’s Stitch Fix, expressed her excitement about participating in what she described as a milestone moment in her career.

This is the first event of this scale that I have ever been a part of, and I’m truly honoured,” she said.

Rehearsals for the event are already underway, and the coordinators are currently assessing the need to recruit additional models to accommodate the large number of participating designers. The full line-up of activities, as well as access passes, will be made available to the public by the end of this week. (Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce)

Designers share their views during the interactive meeting  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tourism Minister swats claims by fashion designer

Posted on by Kayleigh Carter

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond has rejected claims by US-based fashion designer Marrisa Wilson that the inaugural ORIGINS: Guyana Fashion Festival is based on her intellectual property and not developed by the government and its collaborators.

Wilson, who is of Guyanese descent, alleged in an Instagram post that the government had stolen her ideas from an earlier proposal made to Minister Walrond three years ago.

However, Minister Walrond, in a statement today, dismissed the accusations and said the ORIGINS brand was created by a team of local industry practitioners and event organisers assembled to develop Guyana’s fashion industry.

She said the government had invested over G$2.7 billion in the creative and cultural sectors in 2024, and had budgeted G$3.6 billion for 2025.

According to Minister Walrond, Wilson was contacted by a representative of Alex Graham’s team in the United States. Graham is serving as event director of the ORIGINS festival. He met virtually with Wilson and her team on 13 March 2025 to discuss the goals and approach of the event.

The statement said there was “a shared understanding” regarding Wilson’s potential participation in the event. Her team later submitted a short video for inclusion at the festival’s launch, along with images featuring the ORIGINS brand. While the images were not used, the video was played during the 26 March launch at the Railway Courtyard in Georgetown, and Wilson was publicly acknowledged.

Wilson’s team submitted a formal proposal, including associated costs, on 31 March. Minister Walrond said elements of the proposal overlapped with roles already assigned to other local creatives. Internal deliberations were still ongoing when Wilson released what the minister described as an “erroneous and mischievous” video, which has since been circulated online.

Minister Walrond acknowledged Wilson’s achievements but criticised the public release of the video.

“Marrisa’s work and achievement are outstanding, and it is therefore disappointing that someone of Guyanese roots, who had an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the industry here, quickly choose to go public with distortions, exaggerations, and lies in response to our effort to include her and her team,” the statement said.

The government reiterated its commitment to developing the local fashion sector and described the festival as a “visionary initiative” led by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

“The Government of Guyana is firmly of the view that Guyana is not just a land of natural beauty and economic potential; we are a force in fashion, creativity, and culture,” it said. “This festival is a visionary initiative, spearheaded by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to give our designers a global platform.”

Minister Walrond expressed regret that Wilson and her team had chosen not to participate in the May event. She also said she would publish the 2022 proposal referenced by Wilson, contending that “there was nothing original about that proposal.”