Nature and Ecotourism

1.0 Introduction


Tourism is a relatively new to Guyana, and is an alternative to the triple "S" package (sun, sea and sand) popular in the nearby Caribbean islands. With its rich natural life, several nature and ecotourism ventures have developed over the past several years.  Attractions are built on the  sandy banks that line many interoir rivers and islands and the cola coloured creeks and rivers. These get their curious colour from fallen leaves and vegetation upstream. Of course the most populat attraction is the Kaiteur Falls that is among the worlds greatest waterfalls, and is the worlds highest single drop waterfall. In addition many visit the country to enjoy its largely untouched forests and rich wildlife. That aside, the country is well known for its mixed culture and warm hospitable people.
 

1.1  Ecotourism in Guyana

The ecotourism industry is a growing in Guyana, and is expected to contribute to the conservation of the largely intact natural environment. In the past 7 years, the number of resorts and lodges have increased, offering adventure and ecotourists an experience different from the typical island experience.
 
 
 
Plate 1. A view of the Rockview Resort in Annai

With atleast 80% of the country under forest, with many parts still virgin forest, Guyana is set apart from many other ecotourism destinations. In addition, much of Guyana's of the flora and fauna are thriving to a large extent, though some are sadly on the endangered species list. The country is proud to be a haven to half of the sea turtle species, Shell Beach being one of their prime spots. The Shell Beach Conservation Project is a successful project and involves the local Indigenous population in turtle conservation. The potential for an interesting experience is clearly there, but the country is still a little known spot.

1.2 Ecotourism and the environment

Many hope the growth of the ecotourism industry will offer a possible alternative to more extractive forms of exploitation of the environment such as logging and mining. Ecotourism is viewed as an environmentally friendly way of utilizing the natural environment as opposed to traditional forms of tourism as well as others such as nature tourism and adventure tourism, which are not necessarily environment friendly. The success of ecotourism in environmental preservation is the fact that the stakeholders involved have an incentive for taking care of the environment in that it is essential for the success of their enterprise. Another important element in ecotourism is the consideration of the cultural sustainability and well being of indigenous communities in the various locations.

It is also argued by some that on a long term basis, ecotourism can generate more income than other economic activities in the areas such as logging or mining.  

 

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