The much-anticipated Pakaraima Mountain Safari will now be held twice yearly for safari enthusiasts who cannot be accommodated during the April trek.
Tourism Minister Manniram Prashad made this announcement on Friday at the launch of the Ninth Pakaraima Mountain Safari at the Tourism Ministry on South Road, Georgetown.
“Let me announce now that there will be, for the first time, a second safari in the year. So from now on it’s two safaris in every year, and we will be having another one in August,” Minister Prashad disclosed.
The expedition, which will run from March 26 to April 2, will cater for 30 vehicles that are to be subjected to rigorous inspections to ensure they are safari- worthy. It is being held in collaboration with Rainforest Tours, Regions Eight and Nine and the Local Government Ministry.
Minister Prashad noted that the motor racing authorities would normally be given special permission to bring in vehicles, but this is the first time the safari expedition has been granted this opportunity.
Jamaica-based Guyanese Cecil Beharry is a third-time safari veteran and is being allowed to bring his 2001 Land Rover Defender on the trip. The minister said a lot of effort has been put into the planning and details, emphasizing that all vehicles will undergo strict safety tests to ensure there are no stragglers.
He revealed that many owners of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have been requesting permission to join the adventure. However, the tourism minister stressed that the stringent safety measures demand that an inspection be carried out on all vehicles to determine their off-road readiness.
He added that overseas interest in Guyana as a unique tourist destination has peaked over the years, with even heads of states enquiring from around the world.
“As Guyana progresses in terms of eco, nature and adventure tourism, more people are becoming interested in what Guyana has to offer.”
The minister attributes the record number of visitor arrivals every year to the fact that the tourism industry is growing rapidly.
“For the last two years, Guyana was among few countries in the Caribbean which saw more arrivals than the previous years, despite the global recession. More people are coming to Guyana not only for birding and sport fishing, but we’re now a yachting destination.”
In fact, the World’s Yachting Guide has offered in excess of 40 pages for Guyana to promote its tourism product. Although Guyana is not a cruise ship destination, such vessels are sailing here, especially during the hurricane season. “Guyana is being recognised for its ecotourism (product) and this Pakaraima Mountain Safari is now a calendar event that is getting bigger and bigger. That is why it takes a lot of planning and organising. We want to ensure everyone is safe and secure,” Prashad stated.
He pointed out that work has been done on the trail and bridges linking several communities have been built.
Minister Prashad hinted that President Bharrat Jagdeo has been showing keen interest in preparation for the event, and the minister suspects that the president may pop in at some point during the trip.
He described the safari as a, “once-in-a-lifetime six-night adventure” and said safarians are in for a treat with a number of activities scheduled for the event. “If you thought Kaieteur Falls was beautiful and Lethem and the Corentyne and Essequibo Rivers with their many resorts, then you just have to come to the Pakaraima Mountain Safari. You will never believe places such as these exist in Guyana. (They are) probably some of the nicest spots of scenic beauty,” Minister Prashad encouraged.
He pointed out that the expedition will culminate at the Orinduik Falls, where safarians will be given a chance to enjoy its natural jacuzzi and walk on the natural terraces of jasper-laced rocks. There was a time when the ministry had had to seek out sponsorship for the safari, but this is no longer the case.
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