Guyana recorded 40,149 visitor arrivals in May 2026, a 20.6 per cent increase from May 2025 and the strongest May performance in the country’s tourism history, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and the Guyana Tourism Authority said on Friday.
The growth was supported by events held as part of Guyana’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary celebrations, including the return of the Guyana Festival, Street Food on the Terrace events, and Guyana Carnival activities held throughout the month.
The United States remained the leading source market, accounting for 37 per cent of total arrivals, followed by the Caribbean at 33 per cent, Latin America at 10 per cent, Canada at 8 per cent, Europe at 6 per cent and other markets at 6 per cent.
By purpose of visit, leisure travel accounted for 62 per cent of arrivals and business travel 15 per cent, with other categories making up the remaining 23 per cent.
Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues said the figures reflected the sector’s growing contribution to national development and the impact of sustained investment in tourism.
“The results recorded in May reflect the continued growth of tourism as a key contributor to Guyana’s economic development. They highlight the impact of sustained investment in our tourism product, cultural programming, and major events, and reinforce the importance of building on this momentum to ensure benefits reach communities across the country,” she said.
Guyana Tourism Authority Director Kamrul Baksh said the results reflected ongoing progress in destination development.
“These results reflect continued progress in how Guyana is being positioned as a destination. We are seeing the impact of sustained product development, stronger coordination across stakeholders, and a continued focus on improving the visitor experience,” he said.
