Suriname has it all. With 90% of its land covered in lush rainforests, it’s one of the greenest countries in the world. Suriname’s pristine rivers, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife make it a haven for nature lovers. Its vibrant heritage and natural beauty make it a top destination for exploration and investment.

SOUTH AMERICA'S HIDDEN GEM

Suriname is truly a hidden treasure! Nestled on the northeastern coast of South America, this remarkable country is a blend of tropical rainforests, roaring rivers, Dutch colonial history, and vibrant ethnic diversity. Though one of the continent’s smallest nations, Suriname pulses with the rich cultures of its people, offering an experience unlike any other.

From the lively streets of Paramaribo, the Dutch-colonial capital, to the untamed jungles of the interior, Suriname promises a warm welcome. Whether you’re engaging with descendants of diverse cultural and historical backgrounds, including African, Dutch, British, Indian, Indonesian, and Chinese influences, or interacting with indigenous Amerindians, you'll discover a nation where diverse cultures and traditions harmoniously blend, creating a uniquely captivating and enriching experience. The country’s culinary scene reflects this diversity, with flavors ranging from spicy Javanese dishes to hearty Creole fare, making each meal a journey through its multicultural heritage.

Nature lovers will be awed by Suriname’s biodiversity, from the iconic jaguar roaming its forests to the scarlet ibises gracing its wetlands. Adventure seekers can hike through pristine rainforests, discover waterfalls, or explore the Amazon River basin. Suriname’s commitment to eco-tourism ensures that these natural wonders are preserved for future generations, offering visitors a chance to experience untouched wilderness.

TOP 12 PLACES TO VISIT IN SURINAME

Paramaribo

With an area of 182 km2 and 234,000 inhabitants, Paramaribo is the capital of Suriname. 

Dutch is the most widely spoken language in Paramaribo. The capital is subdivided into 12 districts, the center of which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2002. 

Walk around the inner city and discover Dutch colonial buildings, have lunch at one of the local restaurants and buy a few pieces of artwork from the local artists.

Galibi Nature Reserve

This lovely nature reserve was established in 1969 and is situated at the mouth of the Coppename River.  It’s a haven for birdwatchers, home to the endangered manatee, and attracts hundreds of turtles during laying season (April to August).

Located on the northeast coast of Suriname, the reserve is only accessible by boat. It is used by the Amerindians in the nearby villages for fishing, hunting and agriculture.

Central Suriname Nature Reserve

The largest of Suriname’s nature reserves, Central Suriname covers about 12% of the country’s total land mass and 40% of the plants and animals here are to be found only in the Guianas.

One of the most beautiful attractions in the reserve is Raleighvallen, Raleigh Falls. It’s a long and low staircase of water that cascades down from the Coppename River.  You’ll see spider monkeys, Guianan cock-of-the-rock, electric eels, and spectacular exotic birds.


 

Nieuw Nickerie

This busy border town was once one of the country’s main balata collecting centres.

These days the port remains active and the economy is served by the banana and rice plantations.  If you’re hoping to explore Bigi Pan, a swamp and reservoir with over 100 bird varieties, Nieuw Nickerie is the last stop before Guyana.

Be sure to tour the plantations and check out the port before heading on.


 

Commewijne River

All along the Commewijne River, you’ll find old plantation properties as well as cacao, coffee, and sugar cane facilities.  A tourist favourite is to rent a bike for the day and cycle the well-maintained routes around the plantations.

You’ll also find Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, where you’ll discover artefacts left from the slave trade as well as Dutch engineered locks that hold back the river.  Other places worth visiting include Peperpot Nature Park and Meerzorg bridge (popular with bird watchers).


 

Brownsberg Nature Park

Brownsberg Nature Park is a naturally rich area that is located in the district of Brokopondo. The reserve is home to over 1,400 species of plants and 300 species of birds. 

This park is a great location for camping in the forests and perfect destination to explore stunning wildlife and plants. You can discover lots of rare animals and plants in the neotropical rainforest in this area of Suriname. You can also enjoy hiking as you walk through the spectacular stretch in this nature park.

Jodensavanne

Just south of Paramaribo, on the Suriname River, is Joden Savanne, or Jews’ savannah. Established in the 17th century, it was originally an agricultural community that was developed by Spanish Jews fleeing persecution.

You can visit the ruins of the first synagogue in the Western Hemisphere as well as the old gravesites there.


 

Arya Dewaker

This Hindu temple is the largest in Suriname and is located in Paramaribo. It’s arguably the most important in the country to the 30,000+ Hindu’s who live there.

Designed by a Dutch architect, the building is a two-story octagonal building with meeting rooms, a library, and ceremony room. Everything in the temple is designed to reflect aspects of the sun and though there are no images of deities, you’ll find plenty of Sanskrit and Hindi symbolism.


 

St Peter and Paul Cathedral

The Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul is one of the most famous wooden Roman Catholic cathedrals in the world. Located in Paramaribo, construction of the cathedral began in 1883 and was completed in 1901.

In 2014, this architectural wonder was designated as a minor basilica by Pope Francis.

Fort Zeelandia

Located in the capital city of Paramaribo, Fort Zeelandia is a historic colonial fortress in the area where the Dutch first landed in Suriname. Built in the 17th century, the fort was the backdrop for wrangling between the English, Dutch and French.

In more recent times, the fort was home to a museum and political prisoners.


 

Coppename Nature Reserve

The Coppename Nature Reserve is a treat for the nature lover or wildlife tourist. Located on the coast of the Coppenameriver, the coastal reserve is home to several rare species of birds and animals, including the manatee. 

Bailey Bridge is the best destination to watch the scenic view of this exquisite river. See the beautiful point where Coppename River joins Saramacca River and then joining the Atlantic ocean.


 

Onafhankelijkheidsplein

Also known as Independence Square, Onafhankelijkheidsplein, is home to some of the most important buildings in Suriname:  the colonial government buildings as well at the stately presidential palace.

Also known as the Orange Square and the Government Square, Onafhankelijkheidsplein is home to statues of Johan Adolf Pengel and Jagernath Lachmon.

 

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN PARAMARIBO

Get to know Paramaribo the capital city of Suriname

  • Presidential Palace
  • Independence Square
  • Susanna Du Plessis Building
  • Coin museum
  • Lim A Postraat
  • Basilic
  • Palm Trees Square and Wakapasi
  • Mosque next to Synagoge
  • Koto museum (Marron Traditional Clothing)
  • Waterfront
  • Waag Building
  • Central Market
  • Nassylaan and Heerenstraat
  • The Mahagony Street