The villagers of Karasabai in Region 9 (Upper Takatu/Upper Essequibo) are now more prepared to welcome visitors with the opening of the highly anticipated Kezee Ecolodge. For residents and the members of the Tourism Committee, the event was the culmination of years of hard work. 
Kezee Ecolodge is the product of a five year journey which started when the village was the recipient of a grant under the Amerindian Development Fund. This fund is managed by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and United Nations Development Programme.
It was indeed an afternoon of anticipation and elation, which solidifies the village’s desire to further develop their tourism product. Villagers turned out in their numbers for the official opening last week, which was headed by the Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs (MOIPA), Hon. Valerie Garrido Lowe. Also present at the proceedings were Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock, representatives from MOIPA, Guyana Tourism Authority, Guyana Livestock Development Authority, Conservation International Guyana and Visit Rupununi, among other well-wishers.
Conservation International Guyana and Visit Rupununi developed a closer partnership with the village in October 2016, when together they embarked on several working sessions which led to the creation of a tourism master plan which was completed in July 2017. The master plan will serve as a guide and monitoring mechanism for the village to develop and diversify its product offering.
Home to the Macushi people, Karasabai with a population of 1200, is the exclusive home of the Sun Parakeets in Guyana as such it is one of the main birding destinations in the country (the Sun Parakeet is an endemic bird of the Rupununi) Due to its uniqueness, many birdwatchers travel to this village for their elusive shot of this bird. While visitors spend just a few hours to catch a glimpse of this spectacular bird, the newly opened Eco Lodge is equipped to accommodate four persons and hammock space; the main idea is to provide comfortable lodging for overnight guests. Tourism promotion remains a main focus which is used as a way of generating income for families, especially women.
In an effort to curb the poaching of these birds, the village officials and conservationists encourage youths to become involved as one of the ways of safeguarding wildlife.
There are many other activities to enjoy when visiting the village including hiking; Karasabai is positioned in the valley, surrounded by mountains, which makes the location ideal for this activity. In addition, guides also offer trips along the Ireng River. This picturesque village is quite developed with nursery and primary schools, several churches, an Administrative Center and other guest houses located within the village. In addition, there is an active women’s group and culture group. (Guyana Times vSunday)
