Tourism Sector

Guyana, its beauty unspoilt, is a real tropical paradise for naturalists the world over. It offers a distinct product that tourists can enjoy: -vast open spaces, savannahs, virgin rainforests, mountains, huge rivers and waterfalls, the most famous of which is the majestic Kaieteur Falls, known to be the highest single drop waterfall in the world and five times the size of Niagara Falls. Guyana boasts abundant wildlife, numerous species of flora, a variety of fauna and spectacular birdlife.

The climate is hot but pleasant for most of the year. The country is richly endowed with natural resources, fertile agricultural land, vast stretches of unexploited tropical hardwood forest, rich fishing, and shrimping grounds and a wide variety of minerals. Georgetown, its capital is well known for its picturesque, tree-lined avenues, bustling markets, and wooden buildings, the most famous of which is St. George’s Cathedral (reportedly the world’s tallest wooden building).

The Tourism Product

The country has a fledgling tourism industry, offering a product, which is distinct. Soft adventure is available at Guyana’s leading nature resorts and lodges, and for the more intrepid traveller, an exciting array of activities e.g. trekking, horseback riding and boating are offered.

The interior and river lodges of Guyana offer travellers a different experience, some more rustic while others more remote, though they all offer the modern conveniences and are easily accessible from Georgetown. Each is in excellent locations, perfect for viewing Guyana’s exotic wildlife and many species of tropical birds in their unspoiled natural habitat.

Regular flights to Guyana are available from several destinations such as Toronto, New York, Miami, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, Venezuela and Suriname. Domestic flights are also available to seventeen locations in Guyana. Trips can be custom-designed to any length of stay and a selection of interior and river lodges are offered, as well as hotel accommodation in Georgetown. In addition, any of the programmes can easily be combined with other Caribbean island destinations and can include inter-island airfare, choice of any hotel accommodation, transfers, tours and car rentals.

The country attracts around 100,000 visitors per annum. There are four large hotels in Georgetown, the capital - the Pegasus Hotel, the Tower Hotel and the Ocean View Hotel along with a number of smaller hotels such as the Woodbine, Main Street Plaza, Cara Suites, Cara Lodge, Prairie Hotel and guest houses. Guyana has approximately 700 hotel rooms.

Investment Opportunities

There is scope for investment in a number of areas:

• Accommodation: There is need for all types of accommodation, particularly in the hinterland.
• Recreational Fcailities: The development of more recreational facilities in the
  interior would be welcome. Activities could include rafting, boating, tennis, horseback riding and golf.
• Transport: More international airlines and charter services are needed to operate scheduled services to Guyana. Boat and car rental services are also needed.
• Restaurants: There is a need for more restaurants of international standards.
• Craft Shops: Guyana has several established craft shops, but because of the expanding interest in crafts, there is need for more of these outlets.
• Integrated Project: Development of the Kaieteur Park Area as a major tourist destination.

Hotel Tax

Hotels with over 16 rooms are required to pay a 10% room tax.

Government Plans to Develop the Tourism Sector

• Based on the present increase in the awareness of tourism potential and the development of the tourism sector, organisations such as the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the European Union (EU) are assisting Government and the private sector to develop the sector. In addition, initiatives are being taken to:
  • enhance the quality of the tourism product by establishing facilities to monitor standards
  • extend tourism development into new areas to create a more diversified product
  • strengthen linkages between tourism and other sectors of the economy
  • develop cultural and sports tourism in view of the rich and diversified cultural heritage the government and the private sector are committed to protecting the environment and maintaining a desirable ecological balance.