Tourism as a catalyst for Guyana’s economic diversification

Guyana stands at the threshold of a transformative era, one in which tourism is poised to become a central pillar of national development. The Government’s announcement of plans to issue Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for the establishment of all-inclusive resorts across the country signals a decisive commitment to positioning Guyana as a leading destination for both leisure and business travel. This initiative reflects a broader vision of economic diversification and strategic growth, leveraging the nation’s natural assets to create sustainable opportunities for investment, employment, and cultural promotion.
The targeted rollout of resorts in major hotspots, including Orinduik, Lethem, Leguan, Blue Waters, 63 Beach, Bartica, the Stabroek and Vreed-en-Hoop waterfronts, and Kamana Village, demonstrates an effort to distribute the benefits of tourism beyond the capital and urban centres. By linking ecotourism sites, riverine communities, and coastal areas into a national network of high-quality resort offerings, the Government is enabling a more inclusive model of economic development. Local communities stand to gain directly through employment, entrepreneurship, and the expansion of ancillary services such as transportation, guiding services, and cultural experiences.
Critical to the success of this initiative is the engagement of both domestic and international stakeholders. Encouraging local businesses to form consortia and enter joint ventures with global hospitality brands ensures that investment inflows are matched by local capacity-building. Partnerships with established international operators, such as the Marriott Bonvoy all-inclusive brand, are particularly strategic. Marriott’s existing presence in markets with similar ecotourism potential, including Mexico and Costa Rica, offers a blueprint for success that can be replicated in Guyana. At the same time, these partnerships introduce standards of service, management expertise, and global marketing reach that will elevate Guyana’s hospitality sector to international levels of competitiveness.
By aligning resort development with the construction of world-class facilities, such as the proposed indoor arena, the South Dakota Racing Circuit, and upgraded sporting venues, Guyana is creating an ecosystem capable of hosting international conferences, festivals, and sporting events. These complementary investments expand the country’s tourism appeal year-round, reducing dependence on seasonal visitation and ensuring a continuous flow of foreign exchange.
Infrastructure development is another cornerstone of this strategy. The commissioning of the $20 million Courtyard by Marriott Hotel at Timehri and the planned construction of a modern Terminal Two at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport signal the Government’s commitment to improving accessibility, comfort, and connectivity. Terminal Two, in particular, is envisioned as a world-class facility that showcases Guyana’s biodiversity and culture while facilitating seamless transit for international visitors. Such investments in infrastructure not only enhance the tourist experience but also strengthen Guyana’s position as a regional aviation hub and an entry point for business and leisure travellers.
The broader implications for the national economy are significant. Tourism, when developed strategically, functions as a multiplier, generating demand across multiple sectors, from agriculture and manufacturing to arts and entertainment. It encourages local value addition, incentivises environmental conservation, and enhances the global profile of Guyana’s unique heritage and natural assets. By reducing reliance on extractive industries, this initiative helps to build a more resilient economy capable of withstanding external shocks.
Further, positioning Guyana as a diversified tourism destination reinforces long-term sustainability. Eco-tourism, adventure travel, and cultural experiences tap into global trends favouring authentic, environmentally responsible travel. This approach ensures that economic gains are harmonised with ecological stewardship and social inclusivity, aligning development with the values and expectations of an increasingly conscientious global market.
The Government’s approach demonstrates an understanding that tourism must evolve from a peripheral sector to a central pillar of national development. By combining strategic infrastructure investments, international partnerships, and a deliberate focus on high-value, all-inclusive resorts, Guyana is creating the conditions for a tourism-led economic transformation. This initiative promises to expand the country’s economic base as well as to elevate its international standing as a destination of choice for travellers seeking both natural beauty and modern hospitality.