Our Vision
We ensure your unique journey creates well-being and prosperity in communities, while protecting wildlife, biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Conservation
To develop, improve and promote sustainable tourism in the Rupununi by building the capacity of local communities and tourism stakeholders; establishing standards on quality and safety while conserving the nature-based, traditional heritage of the Rupununi; and marketing the region as a single destination with a wide variety of offers.
Conservation
The Rupununi is the home of three groups of Indigenous Peoples: the Macushi, Wapichan and Wai Wai. The Macushi live mainly in the north, the Wapishana in the south savannah and the Wai Wai inhabit the southernmost forests. The entire region of 57,979 square kilometers has approximately 20,000 inhabitants living in about 60 villages and the main administrative centre, Lethem.
The main livelihood activities of the people of the Rupununi are traditional mixed farming, hunting, and fishing. In the late nineteenth century, cattle ranching became a major economic activity in the Rupununi, as Europeans settled in some areas. While the cattle industry has since declined, the ranch lifestyle, is still visible in most parts of the region.
Tourism in the Rupununi
Discover breathtaking vistas, explore pristine wetlands, and venture into tropical rainforests. Navigate rivers and wander through savannahs rich with flora and fauna. This diverse landscape is a sanctuary for endangered species like jaguar, caiman, harpy eagle, and the impressive giant river otter and giant anteater.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying at lodges owned and managed by indigenous communities and local families, who share their knowledge and skills. Engage in conservation efforts and participate in vibrant cultural activities, making your journey both enriching and impactful.
Visit Rupununi
Visit Rupununi was established in 2015 with support from Conservation International – Guyana, as Guyana’s first Regional Destination Marketing and Management Organisation.
We represent the interests of regional, community and private sector stakeholders from all tourism and service-related sectors.
Our Mission is:
1. To build the capacities of local communities and tourism stakeholders
2. To establish standards on quality and safety
3. To promote the protection and conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of the Rupununi
4. To market and promote the region and VR’s members, products and services
5. To advocate for the interests of our members, our communities and private sector stakeholders and for the development of wildlife-conservation-based tourism
6. To provide services and events to visitors
Visit Rupununi is governed by an Executive Committee and a Destination Management team responsible for the smooth running of the organization.
Destination Management Team
Amarissa Barker
Programme Manager
Michelle Joseph
Programme Assistant
O'Wadauni Fredericks
O’Wadauni Fredericks
Executive Board
Jacqueline Allicock
President
Erin Earl
Vice President
Anders Anderson
Secretary
Sharon Sookoo
Treasurer
Krista Melville
Assistant Secretary-Treasurer
Jonathan Joseph
Central Rupununi Rep
Genivieve Murray
South Pakaraimas Rep
Michael Patterson
North Rupununi Rep
Michael Thomas
Deep South Rupununi Rep
Judah
South Central Rupununi Rep
Visitors Map
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