In Guyana, Remote Dirt Road Seen As Future Economic Lifeline

This aerial view shows 'The Trail,' a historic red dirt route through Guyana, which officials are hoping to turn into a major highway that can transform the country's economy (Credit: AFP)

Through the vast interior of Guyana, a historic red dirt road known as "The Trail" winds through rainforest, plains and hills, linking the capital Georgetown to Lethem in the south on the border with Brazil.

Now, that nearly 500-kilometer (310-mile) link is being upgraded into a major highway, and authorities in the South American country -- which possesses the world's largest oil reserves per capita -- hope the project will help transform its economy.