The tourism and commerce ministry launched its Kaieteur Falls “special” package yesterday in order to capitalise on the influx of visitors expected for Carifesta X.

According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release this “special” is one of a series of activities planned to highlight Guyana’s tourism potential for the festival. The package is a collaborative effort by the ministry, Rainforest Tours and Air Services Guyana.

Minister Manniram Prashad said although the package is being offered by Rainforest Tours, it is open to other tourist operators and he urged them to come on board. It includes daily flights to Kaieteur Falls at a cost of US$180. At least one aircraft will be dedicated to Carifesta visitors, though others will be operating.

The ministry has been working closely with the Culture ministry and the Carifesta Secretariat to maximise tourism potential by equipping various groups of persons to do their duties effectively. He said hotel staff, taxi-drivers and customs officers were trained in hospitality services.

The minister said since a larger influx of visitors is expected than what obtained for cricket government is working to expose the guests to various natural and other attractions. Prashad said all flights into Guyana have been booked and even new airlines are fully booked. In this regard, he is urging that more flights be arranged to Guyana; saying that his ministry is working on making that a reality.