Dec 31 deadline set for eco-lodge proposals – Tourism Minister

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues has announced that the deadline for the submission of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for the construction of eco-lodges and resorts in Guyana is December 31, 2025.
The disclosure was made during a live broadcast on Tuesday, as the Minister outlined the Government’s continued push to attract private investment into the tourism sector, particularly in nature-based and community-driven tourism projects.
According to Rodrigues, the RFP initiative targets 10 strategic locations across various regions of the country, aimed at expanding Guyana’s ecotourism product while creating new economic opportunities for communities.
“To encourage investment, we have issued a request for proposals for the construction of eco-lodges and resorts at 10 locations across the country,” the Minister said. “That expression of interest period will close on the 31st of December this year, and we are looking forward to the exciting proposals that are being submitted.”

She explained that the initiative is designed to stimulate private sector participation, generate employment, and enhance Guyana’s appeal as a destination for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and nature-based experiences.
“These are the kinds of investments that will create jobs and make Guyana a more attractive destination to travellers who are seeking adventure, culture, and nature-based tourism – which is an essential part of Guyana’s tourism experience,” Rodrigues noted.
Back in October, the Government said it is prepared to offer attractive incentives for the development of the ecolodge and resort industry, including fiscal incentives.
The objective of this project is to generate employment by engaging the local communities, create business opportunities through collaboration and partnership by engaging with the local communities, expand the country’s accommodation selection and the quality of room stock, encourage the participation of the public and private sectors, and facilitate preservation by supporting and promoting sustainable practices.
Areas identified for suitable investment are Mashabo in Region Two; Vreed en Hoop Waterfront and Leguan in Region Three; Stabroek Waterfront in Region Four; Bartica, Sakaika Falls and Kumerau Falls in Region Seven; Kamana and Orinduik Falls in Region Eight; and Lethem in Region Nine.

Strategic pillar
The Minister reiterated that tourism has been identified as a strategic pillar for economic diversification and job creation over the next five years, with strong linkages to small business development and community empowerment.
She emphasised that tourism development is not confined to large investors or Government agencies but rather depends on broad national participation.
“When people think about tourism, I want every Guyanese to see themselves as playing a part in our tourism economy,” Rodrigues said. “Tourism is not led by a specific group of people. All of us, every single Guyanese, all across this country – have a role to play.”
Rodrigues stressed that a sustainable tourism sector relies on inclusive growth, where communities benefit directly through employment, entrepreneurship, and the preservation of Guyana’s natural and cultural heritage.
The eco-lodge RFP initiative forms part of a wider Government strategy to position Guyana as a leading destination for sustainable tourism in the Caribbean and South America. By leveraging the country’s rich biodiversity, indigenous heritage, and pristine landscapes, officials believe tourism can serve as a long-term driver of economic growth beyond traditional sectors.
With the December 31 deadline approaching, the Ministry of Tourism is encouraging interested investors, local and international, to submit proposals that align with Guyana’s vision for responsible, inclusive, and environmentally conscious tourism development.