VI
1. Observe monkeys in Brownsberg Nature Park
Brownsberg Nature Park boasts over 1,500 plant species and countless primate species, the noisiest of which are the howler monkeys. Following the sound of their bark-like calls, you may be led to the treetops where these red and black howler monkeys reside.
Alternatively, you can choose a trail and hike to one of the four majestic natural waterfalls here. Or you can also hike to the viewpoint at Marazoni Top to enjoy panoramic views of the lush jungle and the crystal-clear lake.
2. Visit a plantation in Commewijne
This plantation is named after the wide river that flows through the area, and is home to the historic Commewijne colonial houses. Make time to visit the abandoned wooden buildings that were once the plantation's stronghold to learn more about Commewijne's history. You should also find out how the region's cocoa and coffee factories operated here. Another option is to visit the Marienburg Museum, a reopened sugar plantation.
If you find the confluence of the Commewijne and Suriname rivers, you'll discover Fort Nieuw Amsterdam. This polygonal fortress historically served to protect farmland from attack. Just a short stroll through the grounds will transport you back to the turbulent 19th century.
3. Visit the capital city of Paramaribo.
From neat rows of wooden houses to lush green lawns, you can see that the capital city of Paramaribo bears the distinct mark of Dutch culture.
To further appreciate the colonial charm, head to downtown Paramaribo, Foto. Here you'll find a synagogue situated alongside mosques, near Hindu temples and Christian churches, all well worth a visit.
To gain a deeper understanding of the cultural diversity, visit the local market—where spices from all over the world are sold—and wander through the bustling stalls to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
4. Try a sample of a famous rum.
Paramaribo is a renowned rum-producing region with familiar white wooden houses and manicured gardens. Visit these houses to learn about the rum-making process, see the handcrafted copper stills, the exquisitely crafted oak barrels, and discover the secret recipes behind this popular cocktail. You can also participate in one of the bartending classes, learning techniques like shaking and mixing, and then treat yourself to a sip of your own creation.
5. Immerse yourself in the culture along the upper reaches of the Suriname River.
The Suriname River is the heart and source of Suriname's name. So why not take a trip along its course? Take a boat ride down to the Upper Suriname rainforest and enjoy the peaceful tranquility, occasionally broken by the sounds of monkeys scurrying along the banks and birdsong.
However, the real appeal of this region comes from the culturally rich villages on both sides of the river. Meeting the Saramaka people who live there and listening to stories about their ancestors, how they came here, and learning more about their traditional customs are fascinating experiences you can have.
You can also find many eco-friendly guesthouses along the riverbank. Plan to stay at several stops to extend your tour and create more unforgettable memories.
6. Visit ClimbVoltzberg
Located in the verdant Voltzberg Nature Reserve, Voltzberg Mountain looks like a dusty rock from outer space that has "visited" the area. The mountain, only 240 meters high, is home to a wide variety of birds and countless species of monkeys.
Upon reaching the summit of the massive granite rock formation, you can admire the lush green trees rising and stretching far into the horizon, where they seem to touch the vibrant pink sky.
After returning, you can immerse yourself in the rushing water over the rocks, cool off, and have fun in the rapids.
7. Watch turtles lay eggs.
Watching giant, slow-moving, gentle turtles nest and lay their eggs in the warm sands at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean is a fascinating sight for any nature lover. For a chance to witness this phenomenon, head to the vast copper-colored sand dunes that make up Matapica Beach, considered the ideal spot in Suriname to watch turtles lay their eggs.
Between February and May, you can see green turtles nesting. If you're really lucky, you might even witness the rare sight of a hawksbill turtle laying eggs.
Another ideal spot for turtle viewing is the turtle sanctuary within Galibi Nature Reserve, where rare leatherback turtles, hawksbill turtles, and olive turtles often come to seek refuge on the beach.
