Iwokrama records stronger earnings on rising eco-tourism demand

Interest in eco-tourism in Guyana is rising, with more than half of visitors to the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development last year being Guyanese, according to its 2025 annual report.
The report said the centre recorded growth in revenue and overall visitation, with more than 1,500 people travelling for leisure and visits to popular eco-tourism sites.
Turtle Mountain remained the most popular attraction, followed by the nearby nature trail, the Kurupukari rapids and ancient petroglyphs estimated to be around 6,000 years old.
The centre described 2025 as a landmark year, noting it received three tourism and conservation awards, including recognition from the Guyana Tourism Authority for its rainforest conservation work, as well as awards for its River Lodge and Research Centre and for tour guiding.
It also hosted international visitors, including participants in the first Global Biodiversity Alliance summit held last July.
Iwokrama said its income rose from US$3.1 million in 2024 to US$4.4 million in 2025, driven by increased grant funding and government subventions supporting core operations.
Chief Executive Officer Dane Gobin said 2025 was a year of achievement, citing strengthened eco-tourism, international certification, and Guyana’s growing role in rainforest conservation.