THE town of Lethem will ‘come alive’ on ‘Independence’ weekend with an array of nature adventures and eco-tourism activities.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Kamrul Baksh, in a recent interview with the Department of Public Information, said that with this year’s Independence flag raising and other celebrations planned for the town, several tour operators are capitalising on the opportunity and have created packages.

Touring Guyana, Trail Masters Adventure Guianas, Dragon Tours, and Savannah Drive have all developed packages for the weekend.

“Those operators are selling a variety of packages promoting the whole Lethem and broader Rupununi area, packaging places like Kumu Falls, Moco Moco Falls, Quarrie, and St. Ignatius. Some are even going over a bit to Bonfim District as sort of an enticement there,” Baksh said.

He noted that operators in the Rupununi are also working on creating new experiences. These include Jonathan Joseph who is promoting a hike to Schomburgk’s Peak, and a camping experience. This is planned for May 25 and 26.

“I encourage all persons to go check that out. We are even working with Rupununi Adventures to do a kayaking paddle boarding experience,” Baksh said.

The village of Quarrie will be offering a hiking and trekking experience. Nappi will also have a hiking experience while Toka will have a pottery-making experience.

“The broad aim is to create a very diversified resilient tourism product. So, when you think of Region Nine or any other region, something comes to mind right away, and having multiple options for solo travellers, family travellers, adventure travellers, nature lovers, persons who appreciate culture, people who want to go for cuisine and gastronomy. We have something to offer to everyone,” the GTA Director said.

Lethem just recently hosted the largest and most successful Rupununi Rodeo which saw thousands of persons flocking to the border town. “Basically, we want to promote more local travels and we are taking advantage of the opportunity of the holidays and other national events and celebrations where people have the opportunity to explore destination Guyana,” Baksh added.