Over the past 10 years, visitor arrivals have increased significantly to Guyana, and in 2013, it was one of three countries in the Caribbean to record double-digit growth, with an 11.7 per cent increase in arrivals.
According to the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) last year, there was an average of 2630 tourists per month. In August alone, Moleson Creek recorded 3581 arrivals and in September, 3602. More than 11,600 persons visited Lethem, Region Nine during the year.
The increase represents visitors from across the Caribbean region, especially from Suriname, Brazil, and Jamaica. This is as a result of several initiatives undertaken by the Tourism Ministry, along with the GTA. Some of these include familiarisation trips, the British Birdwatchers’ Fair in London, and trade shows in New York and Canada.
The inaugural trade shows in New York and Canada created firsthand opportunities to showcase the country’s tourism potential and products on the international market.
The British Birdwatchers’ Fair has been significant in terms of disseminating information about Guyana as a tourist destination, taking into consideration that as a sport it was virtually unknown to many locals, when Guyana first participated in this event.
Many tourists who have had the privilege of experiencing Guyana have recommended the country as a tourist destination. Through this event, they have helped to create an excitement about Guyana and its rich, abundant diverse nature.
The familiarisation (FAM) trip is the most proactive, cost-effective means of promoting Destination Guyana. The Tourism Ministry is determined to market Destination Guyana, and, in 2014, it projects a 15 per cent increase in arrivals. Several FAM trips are scheduled to be conducted, and will result in more persons visiting Guyana.
