Now in its second year, the Maraikobai off road village safari is set to kick off on February 23rd and will run until the 25th, with the aim of promoting domestic tourism and affording participants the opportunity to experience indigenous culture and understand its history.
With a total of four annual safaris, the Pakaraima Safari Club says it remains committed to promoting indigenous heritage while encouraging greater sightseeing of indigenous communities and the vast hinterland.
As Guyana continues to sell itself on the international stage as a nature adventure destination, Safari Coordinator Frank Singh believes the Maraikobai offroad safari offers the unique opportunity to explore what is the only Arawak village in Region #5.
The community is located some 95 miles up the Mahaicony river and is home to 1000 residents. It is accessible both by river and land with logging being the main economic activity.
It is hoped that the safari will provide an alternative method of sustainable development as logging continue to encourage forest degradation and the death of birds and other animals.
During the launch on Friday morning, Singh said he was excited about the prospects of the safari and the accompany exposure and development that it can afford to indigenous residents.
Meanwhile, Director of Guyana Tourism Authority (acting) Carla Chandra said the GTA is pleased to be associated in the Safari.
The GTA itself has been helping the residents of the community to develop its tourism product.
She too believes that tourism is a more sustainable form of development which the community should pursue.
Chandra urged that strict safety precautions be put in place and adherence to all rules.
The close off date for registration is February 21st with participants who are driving their own vehicles being asked to pay $8000 and those without vehicles will be required to pay an all-inclusive fee of $60,000.
Personas are being encouraged, as usual, to take educational and other gifts for the villagers.
The community also receives part of the proceeds of the registration fees.
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