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Introduction
Tucked away on the northeastern coast of South America, the small nation of Suriname often gets overlooked by travelers exploring the continent. But behind the country’s relatively low international profile lies a wealth of awe-inspiring natural beauty, fascinating cultural diversity, and intriguing historic sites just waiting to be discovered.
With influences from indigenous Amerindian, African, Dutch, and Asian cultures, Suriname offers a unique blend of experiences unlike anywhere else in South America. Although the capital city of Paramaribo draws many visitors with its UNESCO-listed colonial center, some of Suriname’s biggest attractions are off the beaten path in the verdant jungles, rolling savannas, and sleepy rural villages of the interior.
For travelers seeking undiscovered places and unforgettable adventures, Suriname is an underrated gem packed with hidden surprises. Read on to learn more about the top sites and experiences this little-known country has to offer intrepid explorers.
Main Attractions
Soak up centuries of history in Paramaribo
Suriname’s capital and only major city, Paramaribo is the top destination for many visitors due to its wealth of colonial architecture fading gracefully amidst the encroaching jungle. The historic inner city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, with Dutch colonial buildings featuring stately facades and sloping red roofs dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Must-see landmarks include Fort Zeelandia, Suriname’s oldest remaining structure, and the grand Saint Peter and Paul Basilica towering over the Palmentuin, an idyllic palm tree park. The sprawling covered Central Market teems with tropical produce and handicrafts during the day, while at night locals and tourists alike throng the buzzing waterfront promenade.
Immerse yourself in pristine wilderness
Over 80% of Suriname’s land area is unspoiled rainforest, home to incredibly diverse flora and fauna. Nature lovers can experience thundering waterfalls, view wildlife like monkeys and toucans, and spend nights in rustic jungle lodges.
The top natural attraction is the 1.6 million hectare Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting some of the most pristine tropical forest left on earth. Raleigh Falls cascades down a rocky cliff into a churning pool surrounded by verdant jungle. Smaller but still impressive, the Brownsberg Nature Park offers scenic vistas and great hiking trails just two hours from Paramaribo.
Along the coast, turtle conservation beaches provide opportunities to see giant sea turtles laying eggs or baby turtles hatching on the sand.
Discover the cultures of Maroons and Amerindians
Suriname has incredible ethnic diversity, with Maroon and Amerindian communities maintaining traditional ways of life in the remote interior. Visitors can tour Maroon villages along the Upper Suriname River and Marowijne River to learn about their unique African culture. Staying in community lodges provides income to villagers while allowing guests to sample local cuisine and crafts.
The Wayana, Trio, and other Amerindian tribes inhabit the jungle interior as well, welcoming respectful visitors interested in their customs and needle-leaf hammock making. Trying cassava bread cooked over an open fire or learning traditional archery are the kind of authentic experiences Suriname offers.
Off the Beaten Path
Step back in time in Jodensavanne
This historic former Jewish settlement, known as Jews Savanna in English, was once a thriving center of Sephardic Jewish life in the 17th century. Today visitors can tour the ruins of Jodensavanne Synagogue and wander the Cassavaplantation Jewish Cemetery, where tilted headstones are slowly being swallowed by the jungle. Other nearby plantations like Frederiksdorp and Cecilia also offer the haunting beauty of abandoned ruins.
Scan for birds and turtles in Bigi Pan
Part of the Nieuw Nickerie district bordering Guyana, this wetland area rewards visitors with sightings of rare and endangered species like the Red Ibis and Jaguar. Nature-lovers can quietly paddle through the marshy waters of Bigi Pan by boat, keeping their eyes peeled for tropical birds overhead and giant sea turtles surfacing nearby. The park’s observation tower provides panoramic views over the whole ecosystem.
Disconnect from the world in Upper Suriname River lodges
The real adventurers can charter boats from Atjoni village to head deeper into the Suriname interior, where a smattering of rustic ecolodges offer a perfect base for exploring the jungle. Activities include challenging whitewater rafting rapids, medicinal plant walks with native guides, and wildlife spotting from lookouts high in the canopy. Prepare to disconnect – with no electricity and only sparse mobile phone service, you’ll be completely immersed in the sights and sounds of the Amazon rainforest.
Travel Tips
Suriname is easy to navigate for travelers who plan wisely. Schedule your visit during the dry seasons from August to November or February to April, when temperatures are cooler and rainforest trails most accessible.
Paramaribo is the transport hub, with buses, collective taxis, and some domestic flights connecting you to other destinations. For remote lodges, boat travel along the river is often the only option. Exercise reasonable caution, avoid isolated areas after dark, and check government advisories.
English is widely spoken in Paramaribo, but learning a few Dutch or Sranan phrases will help when interacting with locals. The local currency is the Surinamese Dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted.
Conclusion
For those who desire more than just seeing the standard tourist highlights, Suriname offers a world of possibilities off the beaten track. From connecting with indigenous communities, to wildlife watching from a dugout canoe, to exploring crumbling relics of Dutch colonialism reclaimed by the rainforest, Suriname is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. By venturing beyond the guidebook top ten, patient explorers will be richly rewarded with the country’s hidden gems. The only question is, when will you start discovering them?
5 FAQs about Suriname Travel
What vaccinations do you need for Suriname?
Hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, and malaria prophylaxis are recommended. Make sure routine vaccines are up-to-date.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Dry season months of August-November and February-April offer nice weather. Expect more rain other months.
How do you get around?
Paramaribo can be explored on foot. For other areas, take buses, collective taxis, domestic flights, or boats. Rental cars also available.
Is Suriname safe for tourists?
Suriname is relatively safe, especially in Paramaribo. Use common sense precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night.
What currency should I use?
Surinamese dollars, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourism areas. ATMs available in cities.