Tourism And Recreation PDF Print E-mail
Several distinct features of Saxacalli promotes the area as a prime tourism site, principal among them the unique beachfront of the village reputed to be the best beach along this section of the Essequibo River. In addition there are a number of interesting creeks as well as islands and rock outcrops, which add to the landscape, and scenery of the village. The combination of natural and cultural attributes of the Saxacalli area blends to create an area that is unique and diverse. The potential of the area is further boosted by its location.

Over the years people have visited Saxacalli with the village being on the itinerary of local tour operators for short stop-overs. However, there has not been a concerted effort by the community to generate funds fro tourism development and the village’s tourism potential remains relatively untapped. Part of this reluctance could be from caution on the part of the community, about the potential negatives tourism development can bring to the village, especially in terms of social and cultural impacts.

In spite of this, the community has expressed an interest in tourism development and how it can help their community. In 2001, students of the University of Guyana Division of Caribbean and Tourism Studies organizing a field trip to Saxacalli with a focus on discussing and sharing information with the community on tourism development.

The discussions with the village centred on the community’s resource uses in and around the Saxacalli, current and future plans for the community, their interest in tourism development for their village, the present status of tourism related activities and the tourism potential of the area.

At the end of the exercise, based on the discussions, a draft Tourism Plan for the community was prepared and presented to the village, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. The Plan identified actions that can be taken at the community level to further develop and improve the community tourism product, education and awareness, training, and marketing. Aspects of the plan are presently being implemented.
In 2002, the MV Clipper Adventure, one of the first cruise ships to Guyana, paid a brief visit to Saxacalli where visitors were received by the community and had an opportunity to purchase items of craft as well as enjoy the local hospitality.
 
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