40 Best Places to Visit in Suriname: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Suriname may be South America’s smallest country, but it packs an extraordinary punch when it comes to travel experiences. Nestled between Guyana, French Guiana, and Brazil, this former Dutch colony offers a unique blend of Caribbean vibes, Amazonian rainforests, and a cultural mosaic unlike anywhere else on the continent. From the UNESCO-listed colonial architecture of Paramaribo to remote jungle lodges where you can disconnect from the world, Suriname remains one of travel’s best-kept secrets. Join us as we explore the 40 best places to visit in this remarkable country that combines natural wonders, cultural diversity, and unforgettable adventures.

Historic Cities and Cultural Centers

1. Paramaribo

Suriname’s capital and largest city is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the country’s remarkable cultural fusion. The historic center features pristine wooden Dutch colonial buildings alongside mosques, Hindu temples, synagogues, and cathedrals – all standing in harmony. Don’t miss the Presidential Palace, Fort Zeelandia, and the vibrant Central Market where the country’s diverse culinary traditions come together.

2. Nieuw Nickerie

This bustling port town near the Guyanese border was once a major balata (natural latex) collection center. Today, it serves as a gateway to the Bigi Pan wetlands and offers fascinating insights into Suriname’s agricultural economy through its surrounding banana and rice plantations. The waterfront area provides a glimpse into local life and commerce.

3. Albina

Positioned on the Maroni River that forms the border with French Guiana, Albina is a cultural melting pot where Maroon, Indigenous, and migrant communities converge. The town serves as an important transportation hub, with regular ferry crossings to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana and riverboats departing to villages deeper in the interior.

4. Nieuw Amsterdam

Located at the confluence of the Suriname and Commewijne rivers, this historic town is home to Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, an 18th-century stronghold built to protect colonial interests. Now preserved as an open-air museum, the fort offers fascinating exhibits on military history and colonial life, making it one of the best places to visit in Suriname for history enthusiasts.

5. Moengo

Once a thriving bauxite mining town, Moengo has reinvented itself as an unlikely art hub. The Tembe Art Studio attracts artists from across the Caribbean, while the surrounding area offers opportunities to explore former mining sites and experience authentic local culture away from tourist crowds.

Pristine Nature Reserves

The pristine rainforests of Central Suriname Nature Reserve cover over 1.6 million hectares

6. Central Suriname Nature Reserve

This UNESCO World Heritage site covers more than 1.6 million hectares of pristine tropical rainforest in the heart of the country. Home to extraordinary biodiversity including jaguars, giant river otters, and harpy eagles, the reserve features highlights like Raleighvallen (Raleigh Falls) and the granite dome of Voltzberg, which offers panoramic views of the forest canopy.

7. Brownsberg Nature Park

Just two hours from Paramaribo, this accessible nature reserve sits on a plateau overlooking the vast Brokopondo Reservoir. Well-marked trails lead to refreshing waterfalls and natural pools, while wildlife spotting opportunities include monkeys, armadillos, and numerous bird species. The panoramic views from the plateau make this one of the best places to visit in Suriname.

8. Galibi Nature Reserve

Located on Suriname’s northeastern coast, Galibi is renowned as a nesting site for endangered sea turtles, particularly leatherbacks, which come ashore between February and August. The reserve is also home to Indigenous Kaliña villages where visitors can learn about traditional customs and crafts, making it a perfect blend of natural and cultural experiences.

9. Bigi Pan Nature Reserve

This extensive wetland area in western Suriname is a paradise for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species including flamingos, scarlet ibises, and migratory birds from North America. The lagoons, mudflats, and mangroves also shelter caimans and diverse aquatic life, best explored by boat with knowledgeable local guides.

10. Coppename Mouth Nature Reserve

Established in 1966, this coastal reserve at the mouth of the Coppename River protects crucial habitat for the endangered West Indian manatee. The reserve’s mudflats and mangroves attract numerous bird species, making it an essential stop for wildlife enthusiasts and a testament to Suriname’s commitment to conservation.

Rivers and Waterways

The Suriname River serves as a vital transportation route and lifeline for many communities

11. Suriname River

The lifeblood of the country, the Suriname River flows from the southern highlands through the capital and into the Atlantic Ocean. River tours offer a unique perspective on both urban and rural life, with opportunities to spot river dolphins, visit riverside communities, and experience the changing landscapes from mangroves to tropical forest.

12. Commewijne River

Lined with historic plantations and processing facilities for cacao, coffee, and sugar cane, the Commewijne River offers a journey through Suriname’s colonial past. Cycling routes connect many of the old estates, while boat tours provide opportunities to spot the rare Guiana dolphins that inhabit the river’s mouth where it meets the Suriname River.

13. Brokopondo Reservoir

One of the world’s largest artificial lakes, created in the 1960s by damming the Suriname River. The haunting landscape features partially submerged trees rising from the water, creating a unique ecosystem. Visitors can take boat trips to explore the drowned forests, fish for peacock bass, or stay at lodges along the shoreline for a truly immersive experience.

14. Upper Suriname River

The upper reaches of the Suriname River flow through territories belonging to Maroon communities, descendants of escaped enslaved Africans who established independent societies in the interior. River tours from Atjoni provide access to traditional villages, rapids, and islands like Isadou, where visitors can experience authentic Maroon culture and pristine natural surroundings.

15. Coppename River

One of Suriname’s major waterways, the Coppename River flows through largely untouched rainforest and provides access to the Central Suriname Nature Reserve. The river is known for its clear waters, diverse fish species, and the spectacular Raleigh Falls, making it a favorite for eco-tourists seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Fort Zeelandia offers insights into Suriname’s complex colonial history

16. Fort Zeelandia

Located in Paramaribo, this 17th-century fortress was the site where the Dutch first landed in Suriname. Now housing the Suriname Museum, the fort’s exhibits chronicle the country’s complex history from indigenous settlements through colonization to independence. The surrounding area features well-preserved colonial architecture and pleasant riverside views.

17. Jodensavanne (Jews’ Savannah)

Just south of Paramaribo lies the site of one of the oldest Jewish settlements in the Americas, established in the 17th century by Sephardic Jews fleeing persecution. Visitors can explore the ruins of the first synagogue in the Western Hemisphere and the historic cemetery, offering a poignant glimpse into this unique chapter of Jewish diaspora history.

18. Arya Dewaker Hindu Temple

The largest Hindu temple in Suriname, this striking octagonal building in Paramaribo serves the country’s substantial Hindu population. Designed by a Dutch architect, the temple features meeting rooms, a library, and a ceremony room, with architecture that symbolically reflects aspects of the sun and incorporates Sanskrit and Hindi symbolism.

19. St. Peter and Paul Cathedral

One of the largest wooden cathedrals in the world, this Roman Catholic basilica in Paramaribo took nearly two decades to complete in the late 19th century. The interior features impressive wooden vaulted ceilings and intricate craftsmanship, earning it designation as a minor basilica by Pope Francis in 2014.

20. Onafhankelijkheidsplein (Independence Square)

The political and historical heart of Paramaribo, this square is home to the Presidential Palace and other significant government buildings. Also known as Orange Square, it features statues of prominent Surinamese political figures and serves as a gathering place for national celebrations and events.

Historic Plantations

Historic plantation estates in the Commewijne District offer insights into Suriname’s colonial past

21. Peperpot Nature Park

Once a thriving coffee and cocoa plantation, Peperpot has been transformed into a nature park that combines historical interest with ecological conservation. The original factory buildings and owner’s house remain intact, while the surrounding forest is home to sloths, monkeys, and numerous bird species, making it popular with both history buffs and nature lovers.

22. Mariënburg

This former sugar plantation and factory in the Commewijne District offers a fascinating glimpse into Suriname’s industrial past. The imposing remains of the factory, with its distinctive brick chimney, stand as a monument to the country’s sugar industry and the complex history of plantation labor, including the arrival of indentured workers from Asia.

23. Frederiksdorp

One of the best-preserved plantation complexes in Suriname, Frederiksdorp has been carefully restored to offer visitors authentic accommodation in historic buildings. The plantation’s colonial-era structures and layout remain largely intact, providing insights into plantation life while serving as a base for exploring the Commewijne District.

24. Alliance

Located along the Suriname River, Alliance plantation offers a window into the country’s agricultural history. The restored plantation house and outbuildings showcase colonial architecture, while the surrounding grounds feature tropical gardens and remnants of the original cultivation areas, creating a peaceful setting for historical exploration.

25. Laarwijk

This historic plantation on the Suriname River dates back to the 18th century and features well-preserved colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the grounds and buildings while learning about the plantation economy that shaped Suriname’s development and the diverse cultural influences that emerged from this complex history.

Interior Destinations and Indigenous Communities

Traditional Maroon villages along the Upper Suriname River maintain distinct cultural traditions

26. Palumeu

This remote Indigenous village in southern Suriname, accessible only by small aircraft or a lengthy boat journey, is home to Trio and Wayana communities. Visitors can stay at a small eco-lodge operated in partnership with the local people, providing a base for jungle trekking, river canoeing, and cultural exchanges with communities that maintain traditional lifestyles.

27. Jaw Jaw

A traditional Saramaccan Maroon village along the Upper Suriname River, Jaw Jaw offers visitors insights into the unique culture developed by descendants of escaped enslaved Africans. The village is known for its woodcarving traditions, with artisans creating intricate paddles, stools, and other items that visitors can purchase directly from the creators.

28. Awarradam

Set on an island in the Gran Rio River, this eco-lodge operated in cooperation with the local Maroon community provides a perfect blend of natural immersion and cultural experience. Activities include guided forest walks, boat trips, and cultural exchanges, with opportunities to learn about traditional music, crafts, and village life.

29. Drietabbetje

Also known as Three Islands, this cluster of Maroon villages along the Tapanahony River is known for traditional wooden houses, dugout canoes, and strong preservation of cultural practices. Life here follows rhythms closely tied to the river and forest, offering visitors authentic insights into Maroon heritage and contemporary life.

30. Kwamalasamutu

One of the most remote Indigenous communities in Suriname, this Trio village near the Brazilian border maintains strong traditional practices while selectively engaging with the outside world. Visitors who make the journey can learn about shamanic traditions, cassava processing, and sustainable forest management from communities with deep knowledge of the Amazon ecosystem.

Natural Wonders and Landscapes

Raleigh Falls (Raleighvallen) is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Suriname

31. Voltzberg

This striking granite dome rises dramatically from the rainforest floor in the Central Suriname Nature Reserve. A challenging hike leads to the summit, rewarding climbers with breathtaking panoramic views over the pristine forest canopy stretching to the horizon. The area around the mountain is also excellent for spotting wildlife, including the vibrant Guianan cock-of-the-rock.

32. Blanche Marie Falls

One of Suriname’s most impressive waterfalls, located in the upper reaches of the Nickerie River. The falls cascade over a series of granite boulders, creating wide streams and natural pools perfect for swimming. The untouched rainforest setting adds to the appeal, making the journey to this remote location worthwhile for nature lovers.

33. Tafelberg (Table Mountain)

This flat-topped mountain in central Suriname rises approximately 1,026 meters above sea level, creating a unique tepui ecosystem similar to those found in neighboring Guyana and Venezuela. The summit plateau features rare plants, small pools, and spectacular views, accessible only by helicopter or a challenging multi-day trek through dense jungle.

34. Cola Creek

Named for its dark, tannin-rich waters that resemble the popular soft drink, Cola Creek flows through pristine rainforest in central Suriname. The creek’s clear, tea-colored waters make it perfect for swimming, while the surrounding forest offers excellent birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities in a tranquil setting.

35. Kasikasima

This majestic mountain in southern Suriname consists of five granite domes rising to 718 meters. Sacred to local Indigenous peoples, Kasikasima offers adventurous travelers the chance to climb to its summit for panoramic views of unbroken rainforest. The journey to reach this remote peak is an adventure in itself, involving river travel and jungle trekking.

Beaches and Coastal Areas

The pristine beaches of Galibi Nature Reserve serve as important nesting grounds for sea turtles

36. Galibi Beaches

The protected beaches within Galibi Nature Reserve are among the most important nesting sites in the world for endangered leatherback turtles. Between February and August, visitors can witness the incredible spectacle of these massive turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs or, later in the season, the hatching of baby turtles making their way to the sea.

37. White Beach

Located near the mouth of the Suriname River, this popular weekend getaway for Paramaribo residents features light-colored sand and calm waters. Food stalls serve fresh seafood and cold drinks, while the relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local culture away from the tourist crowds.

38. Overbridge

This recreational area along the Suriname River offers a beach-like experience with riverside relaxation and swimming opportunities. Popular with local families, especially on weekends, Overbridge provides visitors with an authentic glimpse of Surinamese leisure culture and a chance to cool off in the river waters.

39. Colakreek Recreation Center

This popular swimming spot features a natural pool formed by Cola Creek, with its distinctive dark waters rich in natural tannins. The recreation center offers changing facilities, picnic areas, and food vendors, making it a perfect day trip from Paramaribo for those seeking refreshment in natural surroundings.

40. Matapica

This remote stretch of coastline east of Paramaribo is renowned for its pristine beaches and importance as a sea turtle nesting site. Less visited than Galibi but equally impressive, Matapica offers solitude and natural beauty for those willing to make the journey, with opportunities for wildlife observation and beachcombing along the unspoiled shore.

Practical Travel Information

A map of Suriname highlighting major destinations and transportation routes

Embrace the Adventure in Suriname

Suriname offers unforgettable experiences for adventurous travelers

Suriname remains one of South America’s most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from mass tourism. Its unique blend of cultures, pristine natural environments, and warm hospitality create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring colonial architecture in Paramaribo, tracking wildlife in vast nature reserves, or connecting with traditional communities in the interior, Suriname offers a refreshing alternative to more familiar destinations.

As tourism infrastructure continues to develop, now is the perfect time to discover this hidden gem before the secret gets out. With proper planning and an adventurous spirit, your journey through the 40 best places to visit in Suriname will reward you with experiences few travelers can claim to have shared.