Guyana’s tourism industry recorded series of milestones in August – GTA

Guyana’s tourism industry recorded a series of milestones in August, further solidifying the country’s position as a premier sustainable travel destination on the global stage, according to Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). From international media exposure to the launch of new experiences and expanded community training, the month demonstrated resilience, inclusivity, and innovation in Destination Guyana’s approach. One of the major highlights was Guyana’s feature in the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) inaugural digital series, Travel Redefined: Tourism for People and Planet. Produced in partnership with Content with Purpose, the three-part series spotlighted the Rupununi region’s pioneering model of community-led conservation tourism, focusing on Yupukari Village and Caiman House. The stories highlighted how cultural pride and ecotourism converge to protect endangered species while sustaining local livelihoods.
The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) also announced a partnership with Outlook Travel Magazine to produce a flagship Guyana Travel Guide. The publication will showcase the nation’s diverse offerings, from accommodation and gastronomy to cultural and adventure experiences, while promoting Guyana as both a travel and business destination across multiple digital platforms.

New experiences, local highlights
A major addition to the country’s tourism product was the official launch of the “99 (100) Windows House” historical tour in East Berbice-Corentyne, coupled with an agro-tour component developed by newly licensed operator Lothian Ventura. The GTA hailed the initiative as a prime example of Berbice’s cultural and agricultural potential, and its growing importance as a tourism corridor linked to Suriname.
In addition, the GTA advanced several training initiatives to strengthen community-based tourism. These included: A Tourism Operations and Management Training for 78 participants was executed across four Indigenous communities: Santa Aratak, Mainstay, Mashabo, and Tapakuma, in addition, a Planning, Design, and Construction Guidelines Training with Warapoka Village Council, aimed at improving lodge development practices in alignment with sustainable design principles. Further, the launch of Guyana’s first Bird Guide Accreditation Programme in the Rupununi, setting national standards for bird guiding.

Global exposure
Guyana’s profile also received a major boost through international media. The GTA hosted Bloomberg journalist Mark Johanson on a familiarisation trip from August 24–31. His visit included tours of the Rupununi’s Indigenous-led lodges, interviews with Minister of Tourism, Industry & Commerce Oneidge Walrond, and explorations of Kaieteur Falls and Georgetown’s hospitality offerings. The upcoming Bloomberg feature is expected to reach millions of readers worldwide.
Meanwhile, at Expo 2025 in Japan, the Guyana Pavilion welcomed a special guest: Zena Stoll of Adel’s Resort, who celebrated her 91st birthday at the event, underscoring the enduring human connections behind Guyana’s tourism story.