Guyana is a safe small South American country with a very diverse population of mixed heritage – Eluropean, African, Indian, Chinese and indigenous Amerindian.
The country is famous for its protection of the Guiana Shield Rainforest which is one of the largest intact rainforests in the world, and the way in which it has listened to and incorporated the indigenous communities into promoting tourism within their communities in a way which benefits them.
Although this is not unique the fact that there are no large multinational groups at play alongside the eco lodges is. The country is keen on protecting local lodges, ecosystems and communities above large multinational groups.
To this end they have banned hunting in key areas, which has encouraged a boost in wildlife numbers and visibility. Key species are giant otters, cock-of-the-rock, macaws, jaguars, tapir, caymen, monkeys and giant anteaters – although there are over 1000 bird species and many more animals. If lucky you may even get to see jaguar!
The financial benefits from tourism also keeps out the mining companies, who have been looking to get oil and gold mining rights.
For this reason it is really important to keep tourism going here in the wonderful remote eco lodges such as Surama or Rewa. Because the fact is that any trip to Guyana brings direct benefits to the local communities by way of job creation, economic development to rural indigenous communities, preservation of culture and heritage and environmental protection from big business.
We aim to encourage sustainable low key tourism in Guyana…
and offer tailor made or small group trips here to revel in the natural wonders of the Guiana Shield jungle and open savannah areas, along with culinary tours of the capital and its markets and fascinating multi-cuisine heritage.
Plus, tours which also visit the equally interesting Suriname and Guiana for a flavour of French and Dutch colonial history, alongside that of British Guyana.
All three countries receive very few visitors – so our Secret Guiana Tour is ideal for those who like to get off the beaten track. It’s chance to see how all three countries have developed very differently despite their close proximity.
To travel to Guyana (or all three Guiana’s) and see sustainable eco-tourism that works for and with the indigenous communities check out our Guyana small group trips and private tour suggested itineraries, and contact us for a personal itinerary.
