Domestic tourism increases by 50% as Guyanese embrace more local destinations – Tourism Minister

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond, has announced that Guyana has experienced a significant growth in its domestic tourism sector.
Domestic tourism refers to travel within one’s own country and includes residents visiting destinations outside their usual environment for leisure, business or to see friends and family. Walrond shared these insights during the “Snap and Share” prize-giving ceremony held on Monday. “I’m deeply encouraged by the increase in domestic tourism. More and more Guyanese are exploring this beautiful country, which is a remarkable shift from where we were just five years ago. In fact, when surveyed in 2024, data from all tour operators revealed that the domestic market now accounts for around 50 per cent of all travel,” she said.

According to the Minister, this trend speaks volumes about the strength of the local tourism industry, its operators and the appeal of the tourism products developed by communities and stakeholders. “Just two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of opening Lakeview Cabins in Mainstay. At the very launch, the hosts informed us that the cabins were fully booked for the first six weeks. That speaks volumes—not only about the appeal of the destination but also about the willingness of Guyanese to travel locally,” she noted.
“In 2020, there were doubts. Many believed Guyanese couldn’t or wouldn’t travel within our own country. But today, the narrative has changed. From Lethem to Linden, Berbice to the Essequibo Coast, people are moving.”
She also revealed that many resorts and lodges are now recording higher occupancy rates, a trend she expects will continue. “Let me say something about Mainstay/Whyaka. These cabins and lodges are community-led and community-owned. The village itself—using resources from the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and other Government support—invested in developing the cabins to accommodate visitors. All of the income goes directly back into the community,” Walrond explained. She emphasised that such initiatives are critical examples of sustainable tourism.
“We’re seeing more and more community-led and community-owned tourism products being developed. Women, children and other community members are involved in entertaining guests and creating immersive experiences within their villages. When guests stay in cabins, they spend more time and money in the community, which leads to economic prosperity. That is the real impact of tourism.”
In 2024, in response to soaring excursion prices within Guyana, the Ministry of Tourism, through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), launched several initiatives aimed at addressing the financial barriers faced by many local tourists.
GTA Director Kamrul Baksh shared updates on those efforts last year.
“Last year, we launched a ‘passport initiative’ featuring 40 experiences at heavily discounted rates. For the coastal regions, we’ve created new experiences in the hinterland. This diversification gives the local market more options to engage with,” he said. “The domestic market is incredibly important to us at the GTA and by extension, to the Ministry of Tourism. Tourism is not only about attracting international visitors, but also about encouraging locals to explore their own country.” Additionally, the GTA has introduced several discounted specials for travelers to make tourism more accessible.
Tour prices in Guyana continue to vary based on duration, activities, and the level of luxury. For example. Tour prices in Guyana can vary depending on the duration, activities included and the level of luxury. For example, a multi-day rainforest expedition with accommodation in eco-lodges and guided wildlife excursions can range from US$1500 to US$3000 per person. Shorter day tours focusing on specific activities like birdwatching or river cruises may cost between US$100 to US$300 per person. Additionally, customised or private tours may have higher price tags based on individual preferences and requirements.