Discover Guyana: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers and Cultural Enthusiasts

Published on December 8, 2025

Guyana’s tourism industry is experiencing significant growth as the country continues to host multiple major international conferences and attract increasing numbers of local travelers. With the tourism sector on the rise, Guyana is not only expanding its appeal to international visitors but also making strides in promoting domestic tourism. In response to growing interest, hotels have introduced special rates for Guyanese residents, encouraging locals to explore the rich cultural and natural attractions within their own country.

This growth is part of Guyana’s larger strategy to promote its diverse tourism offerings and position the country as a key travel destination in South America. As the tourism sector prepares for an even bigger push leading up to 2026, the country is working to enhance its infrastructure, diversify its tourism products, and attract more international tourists to explore its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

International Conferences Driving Tourism Growth

Guyana’s increased prominence in the international tourism sector is largely due to the successful hosting of major international conferences. These events not only bring in a significant number of business travelers but also generate interest in the country’s tourist offerings, with many visitors extending their stays to explore Guyana’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.

The country’s capital, Georgetown, has become a hub for various international events, including business summits, environmental conferences, and cultural festivals. These conferences are providing an economic boost to the country, attracting international delegates and boosting business tourism. The growing number of conferences has also led to an increase in demand for local accommodations, transportation, and tourism services.

In addition to business tourism, these events serve as an introduction to the country’s unique attractions. Visitors who attend international conferences often extend their trips to experience Guyana’s world-famous eco-tourism offerings, such as the Kaieteur Falls, Iwokrama Rainforest, and the Rupununi Savannah.

Promoting Domestic Tourism with Special Hotel Rates

As part of the broader strategy to boost tourism, the government and local businesses have worked together to make tourism more accessible to Guyanese residents. Several hotels across the country have introduced special rates and packages for locals, allowing them to enjoy the country’s tourism offerings at affordable prices.

This initiative has encouraged more Guyanese to travel within the country, explore their own culture, and enjoy the natural beauty of their homeland. Popular tourist destinations, including Georgetown’s Stabroek Market, Essequibo River, and the Shell Beach Conservation Area, have seen an uptick in local visitors taking advantage of the special rates. These initiatives are helping to foster a deeper appreciation for the country’s tourism offerings and build a culture of domestic travel.

Exploring Guyana’s Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage

Guyana is renowned for its pristine natural landscapes, which attract adventure seekers, eco-tourists, and nature lovers from around the world. The country’s vast rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls make it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourism travelers. Kaieteur Falls, one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls, is a must-see for visitors, offering a unique and breathtaking view of one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls on the planet.

The country’s biodiversity is also a major draw for tourists. Guyana is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including jaguars, giant river otters, and hundreds of bird species. Nature reserves like Iwokrama, The Kanuku Mountains, and Rupununi offer protected habitats for these species, making the country an ideal destination for wildlife photography and conservation tourism.

Guyana’s cultural heritage also plays an important role in its tourism sector. The country’s rich mix of indigenous, African, Indian, and European influences can be seen in its festivals, cuisine, music, and art. Mashramani, Guyana’s annual celebration of the country’s independence, is a colorful display of dance, music, and traditional costumes that attracts both locals and tourists.

Improving Infrastructure for Future Tourism Growth

As Guyana’s tourism sector continues to grow, the government is making significant investments in infrastructure to ensure the country can accommodate the increasing number of visitors. Upgrades to airports, transportation networks, and public services are essential to meet the demands of both domestic and international tourists.

One of the most notable developments in the sector is the construction of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport’s new terminal, which will improve the arrival experience for international travelers. The expansion of the airport is expected to facilitate more international flights, boosting connectivity and encouraging more visitors to consider Guyana as a viable travel destination.

The government is also focusing on improving road networks and transportation infrastructure, particularly to remote and rural areas that are home to the country’s most prized eco-tourism attractions. This will help improve accessibility to key natural sites such as the Rupununi and Iwokrama Rainforest areas.

Looking Ahead: Guyana’s Tourism Future

As the tourism sector continues to grow, Guyana is poised to become one of South America’s top travel destinations. With its abundant natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and increasing domestic and international interest, the country is on track to achieve its goal of becoming a leading player in the global tourism industry by 2026.

The introduction of special hotel rates for Guyanese residents, the expansion of conference tourism, and the continued development of infrastructure are all key components of this vision. The government’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices ensures that the country can maintain its unique natural landscapes and cultural traditions while welcoming more visitors each year.

Conclusion

Guyana’s tourism sector is undergoing a period of significant growth, with a strong focus on eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable travel. The rise in international conferences, combined with initiatives to promote domestic tourism, signals a bright future for the country’s travel industry. By continuing to invest in its natural resources, hospitality services, and infrastructure, Guyana is well on its way to becoming one of the top travel destinations in South America.