Tourism in Guyana’s North Rupununi is poised for significant expansion following the formalisation of a partnership between the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The two agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen community-based tourism and broaden sustainable travel opportunities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo). Central to the agreement are joint efforts in marketing, tourism product development, and training, most notably plans to establish a community tourism training institute at the Iwokrama River Lodge.
The training initiative is designed to equip residents of hinterland communities with the practical skills needed to participate directly in the expanding tourism economy. By equipping locals with expertise in hospitality, guiding, and eco-tourism operations, the partnership aims to ensure that economic benefits remain within communities while reinforcing conservation objectives.
The collaboration comes at a time when Guyana’s tourism sector is experiencing measurable growth. Officials reported that January 2026 saw the highest January visitor arrivals on record, with 34,923 visitors entering the country—representing a 17.2 per cent increase over January 2025. Projections indicate continued upward momentum as Guyana strengthens its reputation as a nature-based destination.
Iwokrama has long served as a gateway between Georgetown and Hinterland destinations, playing a pivotal role in shaping tourism development across the North Rupununi. Over the years, several individuals who began their careers in the Centre’s tourism operations have transitioned into leadership roles in their own villages, further expanding community-driven initiatives.
Chief Executive Officer of Iwokrama, Dane Gobin, said the agreement highlights the shared vision of both organisations to advance community tourism in a structured and sustainable way. He noted that Iwokrama remains the only internationally certified area for recreational services in the region and continues to maintain global sustainability recognition through its Good Travel Seal certification. The certification, first awarded in 2023, was renewed in 2026 after further environmental and operational improvements.
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, described the MOU as a strategic step towards deeper inter-agency collaboration. He emphasised that sustainable tourism must balance environmental stewardship with economic opportunity, particularly for hinterland communities whose livelihoods are closely linked to natural resources.
The partnership also aligns with broader government efforts to position Guyana as a premier eco-tourism destination. Authorities have increasingly prioritised conservation-focused travel experiences and greater local participation to ensure that tourism growth translates into tangible community development.
Iwokrama further acknowledged the continued support of the Government of Guyana and regional stakeholders, including the North Rupununi District Development Board, which has been instrumental in supporting tourism initiatives across the North Rupununi.
With formal cooperation now in place, stakeholders anticipate that the agreement will accelerate sustainable tourism expansion in Region Nine while strengthening the link between conservation and community prosperity.