THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, on Saturday, joined the Wild Adventures team to launch a new experiential tourism product- Waia Green Escapes- at the Waia Lodge, Kamuni Creek, Region Three.

Ushering in World Tourism Day on September 27, 2025, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, Waia Green Escapes offers a unique blend of nature exploration, and cultural immersion.

An open invitation to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, persons can enjoy a thrilling boat ride, immersive cultural exchange, opportunities for wildlife and bird watching, scenic photo opportunities, swimming and water activities, pristine environment and sunset on the demerara river.

The activities include nature walks, trail biking, traditional indigenous fishing techniques at the landing house, creek exploration on a paddle board, or taking a refreshing swim in cool, black waters. Additionally, a sunset river cruise is also in the cards.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh, said it is evident that our tourism offering position is aligned with this year’s theme, with Waia as a microcosm of that theme.

He noted that while destinations worldwide are clamoring on sustainability and transformational travel and rejuvenation, in Guyana, we have promoted that product and this type of tourism since the beginning.

Commending Keron Samuels and Shebana Daniels, the innovators behind this new eco-tourism experience, the GTA Director said, “We want to support individuals, businesses, that raise the level of standard of offering. I really think they’ve done it here.”

Daniels said Waia was born out of the belief that the beauty, diversity and spirit of Waia deserves to be experienced by all.

The duo has worked in the tourism industry for years in various capacities. After returning to Guyana from Suriname, their initial idea was to find a place where time with family could be spent.

Subsequent to finding the previously forested area, the pair crafted what they wanted the Waia Lodge to look like. Sharing a deep commitment to creating opportunities for young people in the community, Daniels said they knew this initiative would bring the vision to reality.

“With the launch of the Waia Green Escapes, we’re opening the door to a collection of thoughtfully designed itineraries that go far beyond the typical tour. These are experiences, immersive, memorable, and rooted in authenticity,” Daniels expressed, adding, “We offer the flexibility of tailoring each escape to your needs and your liking.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, opined that the GTA and the hospitality sectors can be successful in the future and have the potential to be one of the main pillars of our economy as we seek to diversify and dynamize the economy.

Speaking directly on the Waia launch, Minister Rodrigues said this experience strongly supports the potential of tourism, doing more than showcasing our natural landscapes.

“We all know that tourism creates opportunities for local communities, supports small businesses, generates employment, and ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared broadly. So, by developing experience like this outside of Georgetown, we highlight the unique stories, traditions, and landscapes that make each region of Guyana special.”

She stressed that building on the success of indigenous community tourism, Waia Green Escapes demonstrates how initiatives led or supported by local communities can enrich our tourism offerings and provide memorable experiences for visitors.