Suriname is a small South American country nestled between Guyana, French Guiana, and Brazil. Though often overlooked, Suriname offers intrepid travelers the chance to experience some of the most pristine rainforests, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking natural sights in the world. This article will highlight some of Suriname’s top natural wonders that are worth adding to your bucket list.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Suriname is a nature lover’s paradise. Over 90% of the country is covered in thick, lush rainforest teeming with exotic flora and fauna. The country’s diverse ecosystems range from marshlands to savannas, rivers, mountains, and beaches along the Atlantic coast. Suriname’s long history of low population density and limited development has kept its interior wilderness very well preserved.
For those seeking remote eco-adventures off the beaten path, Suriname offers excitement and natural beauty around every bend. Read on to learn about some of the top spots to experience the best of this natural wonderland.
About Suriname
Suriname is located on the northeastern coast of South America. It has a population of just 600,000 people, most of whom live in and around the capital city of Paramaribo. Suriname was once a Dutch colony and Dutch is still the official language. The country has a diverse population descended from indigenous peoples, Africans, Javanese, Chinese, Hindustanis, and Europeans.
Overview of natural wonders
Suriname boasts expansive protected rainforests, coastal ecosystems, wetlands, savannas, and mountain ranges. Popular natural attractions include jungle reserves teeming with wildlife, sea turtle nesting beaches, flooded forests, and thundering rivers perfect for rafting and kayaking. Avid birdwatchers flock to Suriname for a chance to spot harpy eagles, cock-of-the-rock birds, and hundreds of other species. Outdoor adventurers can hike, camp, swim in waterfalls, and stay in eco-lodges nestled deep in the jungle.
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
The vast Central Suriname Nature Reserve covers over 1.6 million hectares of pristine tropical rainforest. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 in recognition of its ecological significance.
Location and size
This reserve is located in the center of Suriname, south of Brokopondo. Its remote location deep in the Amazon rainforest basin keeps it well protected. The reserve covers about 16,000 square km, making it one of the largest conservation areas in the world.
Flora and fauna
The dense rainforests contain staggering biodiversity. Over 500 species of birds and 100 mammal species inhabit the reserve, including jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, sloths, and river dolphins. Rare flora includes the giant Victoria amazonica water lily.
Activities
Visitors can hike through the jungle spotting wildlife, camp overnight, fish, and go canoeing on rivers. The Raleighvallen and Voltzberg areas offer great hiking opportunities with dramatic scenery including waterfalls and granite dome mountains.
Brownsberg Nature Park
Brownsberg Nature Park provides a mountainous rainforest getaway just two hours from Paramaribo.
Location
Brownsberg lies inland, west of Brokopondo. The nature reserve spans around 8,400 hectares.
Hiking trails
Over 100 km of hiking trails wind through Brownsberg. Well-marked trails range from easy walking loops to multi-day treks scaling its tallest peak, Mazaroni Mountain.
Flora and fauna
Brownsberg has scenic vistas overlooking tropical rainforest dotted with boulders and waterfalls. Diverse wildlife includes monkeys, sloths, jaguars, deer, anteaters, tapirs, and over 200 bird species.
Galibi Nature Reserve
The Galibi Nature Reserve protects a prime sea turtle nesting beach and coastal mangrove ecosystems.
Location
Galibi is located on Suriname’s northeast coast near the border with French Guiana. Indigenous Carib and Arawak communities live around the reserve area.
Sea turtle nesting
Leatherback and green sea turtles nest on Galibi’s beaches between March and August. Visitors can take guided night tours to watch turtles laying their eggs. The reserve works to protect eggs and released hatchlings.
Coastal ecosystem
Mangrove swamps, tidal mudflats, and beaches create habitats for diverse coastal birds like scarlet ibis. Dolphins and manatees are sometimes spotted offshore.
Brokopondo Reservoir
The vast Brokopondo Reservoir flooded 16% of Suriname’s land area upon its creation in the 1960s. This artificial lake’s 1,560 square km contain over 350 islands to explore.
Creation of the reservoir
The Afobaka Dam was built to provide hydroelectric power. Its reservoir flooded forests, farmlands, and villages, with remnants creating a unique flooded forest ecosystem.
Islands
Hundreds of forested islands dotting the reservoir offer secluded getaways. Tour operators offer boat trips for fishing, swimming, and overnight island camping.
Flora and fauna
The enormous lake ecosystem is home to caiman, giant river otters, piranhas, electric eels, and rare fish species, along with monkeys and sloths in the half-submerged forests.
Nieuw Nickerie
The district of Nieuw Nickerie contains expansive wetlands that draw birders from around the world.
Bigi Pan wetlands
These marshy wetlands and meadows provide vital habitat for wading birds, waterfowl, parakeets, and scarlet ibis. Seasonal flooding expands wetland areas.
Bird watching
Over 400 bird species have been recorded at Bigi Pan. Guided boat and foot tours offer views of everything from kingfishers to storks and snail kites. Prime visiting months are from October to March.
Upper Suriname River
The Upper Suriname River flows through endless pristine jungle dotted with rapids and waterfalls.
Location
The river stretches south from Lake Brokopondo through untouched rainforest deep in Suriname’s interior.
River ecosystem
Forests along the riverbanks harbor spider monkeys, electric eels, caiman, river turtles, and peacock bass fish. Rapids and falls enhance its wild beauty.
Indigenous villages
Maroon and Amerindian communities live traditionally along the upper river, offering cultural experiences for visitors. Guided tours visit artisan villages sustainably managed for ecotourism.
Conclusion
Summary
As this article has illustrated, Suriname offers tremendous natural treasures, from sea turtle beaches to flooded forests, teeming jungle reserves, and isolated indigenous villages. Intrepid ecotourists will be awed by Suriname’s biodiversity and thrilled by the remote adventures it offers.
Call to action
If you crave immersion in unspoiled wilderness and exotic nature far from crowds, Suriname deserves a spot high on your travel wish list. Start planning a trip tailored to your interests, and prepare for the eco-adventure of a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to get around Suriname?
A: Due to limited infrastructure, the primary ways to get around are by boat, plane, car hire, or organized tour. Boats and charter planes are often needed to reach remote lodges and reserves in the interior.
Q: When is the best time to visit Suriname?
A: The main tourist season is from August to November, during the dry season when travel is easiest. However, different activities like turtle nesting have specific peak seasons.
Q: Do I need vaccinations to visit Suriname?
A: No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if coming from an endemic area. However antimalarial medication is recommended when visiting jungle regions.
Q: Is Suriname expensive to visit?
A: Once you arrive, costs like food, transport, and lodging outside the capital are quite affordable. Getting there can be pricey but worth it for nature lovers!
Q: What languages are spoken in Suriname?
A: Dutch is the official language, with English, Sranantongo, and local Maroon and Amerindian languages also spoken, especially in the interior. Tour guides usually speak English.