Investors eye Eco-Lodges in Linden, Berbice

Guyana’s tourism sector is transforming and investors are responding to the government’s call for the construction of eco-lodges in several forested areas.

And according to the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond all serious investors will be considered to establish these lodges at the Blue Lakes in Linden and in Region Six (East Berbice- Corentyne).

Minister Walrond on Friday disclosed that two investors have already visited areas for consideration.

“There have been two very serious potential investors and we took them around to various locations this week to let them identify areas.

“There has been a lot of interest involved but as government, we have to ensure that people are not languishing with the projects so that is what has delayed the actual announcement and sod turning. Getting the right partner to develop the project will take some time because it’s not like branded hotels. We have to be very careful and discerning of eco-lodge facilities,” the Tourism Minister said.

Walrond explained that these facilities will have many requirements and they have to be eco-friendly before they are considered to be an eco-lodge.

In describing locations that suit these requirements, the minister said places that emphasize the natural beauty of the country’s waterways and forests are the main spots.

“There is Linden, Region Six, everywhere there is water flowing and you know in Linden there is lots of water…the lakes in Essequibo, those are areas that we can think of right away that are ready for eco-loge facilities,” Minister Walrond said.

In addition to the careful planning process, another key focus is for Guyanese to be able to gain from the development of these facilities. Urban eco-lodges have already been constructed at Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

They will be used to host visitors during the country’s Cricket Carnival activities.