Tourism Ministry unveils seven new immersive experiences to deepen cultural, community connections

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, together with the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), has introduced seven new tourism experiences that place people, culture, and community at the heart of Guyana’s growing travel sector. The launch took place on Tuesday evening at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, where operators, partners, and industry stakeholders gathered to celebrate the country’s expanding portfolio of immersive tourism products.

In her feature address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, spoke of the rapid transformation underway in Guyana’s tourism landscape and its potential to become a major pillar of the national economy. She underscored the government’s continued support for tour operators—many of whom are small businesses—highlighting the administration’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and broadening opportunities across the sector.

“We are investing this time because we want to really grow Guyana’s tourism experience, elevate our visibility on the global platform, welcome our visitors and give them a truly immersive experience,” the Minister said.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, reinforced this vision, noting the Authority’s strong focus on developing new products and deepening the country’s shift toward experiential tourism.

Throughout the evening, operators introduced their latest offerings, each crafted to bring visitors closer to Guyana’s people, traditions, and natural beauty. These include Bush Bar & Bites by Touring Guyana, the Kumerau Expedition by Blackwater Adventures, Essequibo Got Taste and Celebrating the Coconut by Eco Destination Tour Guyana, the Kids Botani Tour by Trail Masters Adventure Tours, the Cook Like a Guyanese Tour and the Guyana Flying Dress Experience by Wanderlust Adventures GY.

The launch reflects a wider national effort to diversify tourism, strengthen community-led initiatives, and create meaningful experiences for both residents and international travellers. One highlight of the event was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Wanderlust Adventures GY and the Carnegie School of Home Economics, aimed at expanding culinary tourism and nurturing local talent.

Since 2020, more than 70 new tourism experiences have been added to Guyana’s landscape, signalling a sector that continues to innovate and grow.

The Guyana Tourism Authority is a semi-autonomous governmental body dedicated to developing and promoting sustainable tourism through close collaboration with government agencies and the private sector. Its mission is to position Guyana as a premier destination known for protecting its natural and cultural heritage, offering authentic experiences, and ensuring communities benefit from tourism’s socio-economic opportunities.