By Guyana Tourism Authority
Responsible tourism is a two-way street . A destination , such as ourselves , has a responsibility to maintain the authenticity and integrity of our natural and cultural attractions . They are , after all , the reasons you visit Guyana in the first place .
You , the traveller , have a shared responsibility to help us in our mission to ensure tourism generates positive socio-economic and conservation outcomes by doing your part . We ’ ll get to that later , but for now , don ’ t worry , it ’ s nothing that will lessen your vacation fun . In fact , it will add to it . a new low-carbon economy in Guyana by establishing incentives that value the world ’ s ecosystem services and promoting these as an essential component of a new model of global development with sustainability at its core . In Guyana ’ s case , harnessing the value of the country ’ s ecosystem services can build a long-term , low-carbon diversification opportunity .” ( Low Carbon Development Strategy , 2030 )
With our recent move into the limelight and tremendous endowment of bio- and cultural diversity , Guyana has found its way onto a number of international travellers ’ bucket lists . This is hardly surprising . An increasing number of travellers are seeking out unspoiled destinations , and Guyana ’ s exotic wildlife , vast open savannahs , pristine rainforests and rich thriving culture make it a natural for eco-tourism enthusiasts . Our recent recognition as the World ’ s # 1 Best Ecotourism destination ( at ITB- Berlin ) and the top Sustainable Adventure Destination ( at WTM ) simply confirms what many travellers already know .
Guyana is one of the few countries in the world where indigenous tourism is a primary offering and focal point . Surama Eco-lodge , Rewa Eco-lodge , and Caiman House Field Station & Guest House act as the blueprint for sustainable , community-led and owned tourism . The host communities own the enterprises , which results in all of the residents receiving economic benefits . What ’ s equally beneficial is that the host communities have an incentive to protect wildlife and preserve their traditional culture .
As a manifestation of our country-wide commitment to sustainable development , The Government of Guyana has since renewed its Low Carbon Development Strategy ( LCDS ) which outlines its vision for “ inclusive , sustainable development while simultaneously maintaining the country ’ s forests , about 85 % of the country ’ s territory , to help meet some of the most urgent challenges the world faces ,” ( Low Carbon Development Strategy , 2030 ). It is important to note that this new LCDS 2030 will “ create
Now it ’ s your turn . In Guyana , you can have the natural and cultural experience of a lifetime . All we ask is you help out with some sustainable , eco-friendly tourism practices during your stay .
Choose a Low-Carbon Adventure . Carbon emissions are often an unavoidable aspect of travel . However , Guyana does have options . Instead of taking a plane
60 | TOURISM GUYANA 2022