The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) has announced that the Botanical Gardens will be temporarily closed to visitors from October 12, 2026, to facilitate ongoing construction and modernisation works.
In a notice published Tuesday, the PAC said the closure is necessary to ensure the safety of visitors, staff and workers while construction continues. The Commission apologised for any inconvenience caused and urged the public to exercise patience and understanding. Further information on the reopening of the facility will be provided as the works progress.
The closure comes as the Government advances a major redevelopment of the Georgetown Botanical Gardens and Zoo, with the project expected to transform the facility into a modern nature, wildlife, education and recreation destination. According to information published by the Department of Public Information (DPI), the redevelopment is already underway, with work focused on site preparation, demolition of obsolete structures, foundations, internal roads, drainage and other supporting infrastructure.
Foreign Secretary and Chairman of the PAC Robert Persaud told DPI that the project is expected to preserve the character of the Gardens while introducing new ways for visitors to experience nature.
A major component of the redevelopment is the conversion of the existing zoo into a Wildlife Sanctuary, with larger and more natural habitats, upgraded animal care facilities and spaces intended to allow animals to display more natural behaviours.
The plans also include a new entrance along Homestretch Avenue, a Discovery Centre with an aquarium, themed gardens, improved waterways and walkways over the ponds. A SkyTrail featuring five observation towers is also planned, along with a Roraima-inspired waterfall, canoe facilities, internal shuttle services and a nature-themed children’s play area.
An amphitheatre is being developed along Homestretch Avenue near the National Cultural Centre and is expected to provide space for performances, storytelling, exhibitions and community activities. The redevelopment is expected to retain mature trees and familiar landmarks while adding infrastructure to expand the recreational and educational uses of the Gardens.
The Discovery Centre will provide opportunities for students and visitors to learn about Guyana’s biodiversity through interactive experiences involving the aquarium, gardens and wildlife habitats.
The project is also expected to expand the Gardens’ role in Georgetown’s tourism offering, with opportunities for local guides, entrepreneurs, businesses and community partners to participate in the visitor experience.
Animal welfare is also being considered during the construction period. Animals currently remain at the facility under the supervision of the veterinarian and animal care personnel.
According to the DPI report, officials said keeping the animals on site avoids the risks associated with transportation and unfamiliar surroundings. As new habitats are completed and certified as safe, the animals will be moved gradually into their permanent environments.
The redevelopment also includes plans for conservation initiatives such as breeding and rehabilitation programmes for species including macaws and sun parakeets. Where appropriate, the release of rehabilitated animals into the wild will be considered. The facility is also expected to accommodate wildlife that cannot safely return to the wild, including animals surrendered by individuals who are no longer able to care for them.
According to DPI, potential exchanges with other zoological institutions could eventually expand the range of species available for educational purposes, subject to animal health, veterinary and welfare requirements. The Gardens will also continue to provide habitat for free-living wildlife in Georgetown, with areas retaining a more natural character to provide food and shelter for birds and other species.
The redevelopment is targeting completion of foundations and internal roads, along with the removal of most old enclosures, by the end of 2026.
CNQC is the main contractor, with SRKN providing engineering advice and supervision. Construction is being accelerated during the extended dry period, while the temporary closure is expected to allow work to proceed with fewer safety risks associated with public activity around construction zones and animals.
Engineering assessments are being conducted to address soil conditions, drainage and the requirements of larger structures. Work is also being done on staff training, recruitment planning, plant propagation and preparations for future partnerships with botanical gardens. The Government is targeting completion of the broader transformation within approximately three years.
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