Fifteen new tourism ventures unveiled

At the launch of the 15 new products (Ministry of Tourism photo)
At the launch of the 15 new products (Ministry of Tourism photo)

Fifteen new tourism products were launched yesterday by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). This brings the total to more than 40 new products launched over the last three years, a release from the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce said.

The launch coincided with World Tourism Day.

Addressing the audience at the event, Oneidge Walrond, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce stressed that tourism is an important pillar and will be a bedrock for the Guyana economy. She also spoke about the trickle-down economic benefits Tourism brings to local communities.

The release said that Walrond highlighted the increased tourism arrivals, noting that this trend means Guyana will continue to experience record arrival numbers.

The new experiential products launched were:

1. Life on the River- Touring Guyana

2. Essequibo Weekend Getaway – Eco Destination Tours

3. Backdam & Bushcook Tour – Touring Guyana

4. Pakuri Fin & Feather Adventures – Bimichi Eco Lodge

5. Yarrowkabra Dream ATV Tour – Savannah Tours Guyana

6. Mahaica River Tour

7. Moraikobai Overnight – Epic Tours

8. Bartica Resort Hopping – Eco Destination Tours

9. Paruima Village Tour – Paruima Village

10. Yogic Meditation Package – Iwokrama Tours

11. Turtle Mountain/ Turu Falls Hiking Excursion – Iwokrama Tours

12. IRL Rapid Cat Run and Essequibo Reel -Iwokrama Tours

13. Manari Kayaking & Paddle Boarding-Rupununi Adventures

14. Lethem Bar Crawl- Rupununi Adventures

15. Nappi Reservoir Tour – Nappi Village

The launch took place at the Bookland Gardens.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Information (DPI) yesterday reported that the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) in collaboration with the GTA has launched ‘Guyana Escapes 2023,’ which is geared towards boosting business at established lodges and resorts countrywide.

The initiative, which was launched on Wednesday at the Herdmanston Lodge, Peter Rose Street, Georgetown, will see participants getting help  from the tourism agencies to offer affordable packages to local tourists from November 1 to December 15.

Meanwhile, THAG’s President, Dee George said: “It offers an opportunity to show our commitment to actively drive traffic to our cherished lodges and spaces across our beloved Guyana. We shall embark on a six-week journey that seeks to harness the beauty of our nation, its rich culture, and its pristine natural landscapes while preserving and enjoying”.

GTA-licenced eco lodges and resorts are invited to register with the programme which will see support in marketing and graphic design. There are also incentives for establishments that develop new experiences, DPI said.