The transformation of Guyana’s tourism industry stands as a demonstration to strategic vision, investment, and commitment to national development. In recent years, Guyana has steadily redefined its global image, not only as an oil-producing nation, but also as a uniquely captivating destination that harmoniously blends rich cultural heritage with natural beauty. Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips’ address at the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana’s (THAG) Annual Awards Dinner underlined the depth and momentum of this transformation, anchored in a bold and inclusive approach to tourism development.
Once marginalised as a secondary sector, tourism is now firmly embedded within the framework of Guyana’s National Development Strategy. As the Prime Minister rightly noted, the sector has evolved from being an afterthought to becoming a key development pillar, creating jobs, earning foreign exchange, empowering rural and Indigenous communities, and preserving the nation’s cultural and ecological patrimony. This reflects a model that balances economic opportunity with sustainability.
The country’s tourism blueprint has been crafted not merely to attract visitors but to offer meaningful experiences rooted in authenticity. This strategy acknowledges Guyana’s unique assets: the untamed splendor of its rainforests, the warmth of its people, and the richness of its multicultural society. It is a tourism product that respects identity, safeguards the environment, and uplifts communities, a vision well-aligned with global calls for responsible and regenerative tourism.
Institutional capacity building has been a critical early step in this journey. The establishment of the Guyana Tourism Authority and the strengthening of frameworks within the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry provided the necessary backbone for coordinated sectoral development. Parallel to this, major infrastructure investments, once met with skepticism, have proven to be foundational. The Cheddi Jagan International Airport expansion and the construction of the Marriott Hotel have facilitated unprecedented growth in international connectivity and accommodation capacity. These projects, alongside others like the Ogle municipal airport, were strategic precursors to the sector’s modern surge.
Indeed, the results over the past five years speak for themselves. The record-breaking 371,272 visitor arrivals in 2024, representing a 329 percent increase from 2020, marks a significant leap forward. With projections indicating arrivals will surpass 420,000 by 2025, and with more than 600 new hotel rooms slated for completion this year, the nation is scaling its capacity to meet growing global interest.
Such growth has not occurred in a vacuum. The increase in visitor numbers has been supported by deliberate efforts to diversify the tourism offering. More than 65 new tours and products have emerged since 2020, offering a spectrum of experiences, from culinary and cultural immersion to adventure and heritage exploration. These include the celebrated culinary experience, heritage tours, and activities such as kayaking and ATV riding, all reflecting an industry attuned to global travel trends and visitor desires.
Guyana’s rise on the international stage is further validated by the 11 international tourism awards garnered in the last five years, and the achievement of global sustainability certification by five eco-lodges. These accolades underscore the credibility of Guyana’s commitment to high-quality, eco-conscious tourism.
The success of this growing industry is also rooted in human capital development. The forthcoming launch of the Hospitality and Tourism Training Institute (HTTI) in 2026 marks a strategic move to professionalise the sector. With over 8,000 Guyanese already certified in tourism and hospitality, the workforce is being systematically prepared to deliver world-class service. This level of preparedness is vital as Guyana moves to tap into emerging markets such as medical, wellness, and agro-tourism, while expanding sport and entertainment tourism through events like Cricket Carnival and the Global Super League.
Importantly, the success of Guyana’s tourism journey lies also in partnerships. As the Prime Minister aptly highlighted, collaboration among government, the private sector, communities, and international partners remains essential. It is through these alliances that inclusive growth, innovation, and resilience are fostered.
Guyana is no longer simply building a tourism sector, it is crafting a world-class, globally competitive tourism brand. The work done thus far reflects both policy foresight and national belief in the promise of tourism as a tool for transformation. As infrastructure expands, training deepens, and new markets emerge, the tourism industry stands poised to become one of Guyana’s economic engines, offering prosperity while preserving identity.
