Guyana‘s tourism industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by strategic government efforts and robust economic growth. The Chief Executive Officer of Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ramesh Ghir, highlighted this surge, pointing out that the country is on track to welcome its one-millionth passenger by November 2024. This milestone reflects Guyana’s growing allure as a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers, further solidifying its position on the global tourism map.
In a recent statement, Ghir revealed that Guyana has already welcomed over 801,000 passengers in the first nine months of 2024 alone. This substantial influx of visitors is a testament to the government’s concerted efforts to promote the country as a top destination. He noted that several key initiatives have been pivotal in driving this growth, such as the promotion of the country’s rich cultural heritage, its diverse natural beauty, and its expanding economic opportunities. These factors have positioned Guyana as a unique and attractive option for tourists seeking both adventure and business opportunities.
One of the primary factors behind this tourism boom has been a significant increase in airline connectivity. Ghir reports that the addition of several new airlines to Guyana has resulted in the availability of more than 200,000 additional seats for passengers. This increased connectivity has not only facilitated greater accessibility for international travelers but has also opened new markets, attracting a broader demographic of visitors from across the globe. The airport has seen a year-over-year increase of 18 percent in passenger traffic, with an additional 125,000 passengers processed compared to the same period in 2023.
Ghir emphasized that this remarkable growth in tourism is not just due to improved airline access but also the result of strategic government initiatives designed to boost Guyana’s visibility as a tourism hotspot. Events like the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) cricket tournament and the Cricket Carnival have played a significant role in drawing visitors to the country. These high-profile events have brought international attention to Guyana, showcasing its capacity to host large-scale events while highlighting its rich cultural offerings. Such events have created a ripple effect, with more tourists being drawn to explore Guyana’s lesser-known natural attractions, including its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Additionally, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s leadership has been instrumental in the development of Guyana’s tourism sector. His administration has actively worked to market the country to major airlines, resulting in ongoing negotiations with additional carriers looking to enter the market. Ghir credits President Ali’s efforts for helping to attract global interest in the country and ensuring that Guyana remains competitive in the international tourism industry.
“Guyana’s emergence as a vibrant and attractive destination for travelers worldwide is a significant milestone,” Ghir noted. “The country’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and growing economic opportunities are attracting visitors from near and far.”
With its expanding tourism sector, Guyana is positioning itself as a key player in the regional tourism market. The government’s initiatives, combined with private sector investments in infrastructure and services, have created a solid foundation for long-term growth. Efforts to improve the country’s infrastructure, including its airports and roads, have made travel more seamless for international and domestic visitors. These improvements, along with the country’s commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism, have ensured that Guyana’s tourism growth is both responsible and sustainable.
Looking forward, Ghir is optimistic about the future of tourism in Guyana. With the one-millionth passenger milestone on the horizon, the country is poised to break new ground in its tourism industry. The future of Guyana’s tourism sector appears bright as more airlines express interest in serving the Guyanese market and the country’s unique offerings attract more tourists.
