Suriname
Top 10 Destinations in Suriname
Explore the wonders of Suriname and get to know more about this South American country
Formally called as the Republic of Suriname, this country is known to have one of the most diverse people from ethnic to linguistic and religious groups. Suriname may be one of the smallest countries in the world, but it is packed with wealthy history and nature. Most of the locals are Dutch-speaking unlike other South American countries.
Jodensavannah (Jodensavanne)
Translated as Jewish Savanna, Jodensavannah is an agricultural community in Suriname’s Para District. This destination is surrounded by sugarcane plantations and became the country’s colonial center. One of the oldest remnants of a synagogue is found in Jodensavannah, which was said to be built in 1685.
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
Listed as one of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 because of its undeniably amazing rainforests and ecosystem, Central Suriname Nature Reserve is one of the top destinations in the country. This nature reserve is home to various birds species including the Rupicola rupicola or the Guiana Cock of the Rock. Other wildlife that can also be found in Central Suriname Nature Reserve is electric eels, blood-orange bird and spider monkeys.
Paramaribo
Comprising almost half of the country’s population, Paramaribo is the capital and the largest city of Suriname. This destination is rich in historic heritages and it is where one of the oldest synagogues across American territories is located. Paramaribo’s inner city is surrounded by mosques and synagogues, which made the city one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mount Kasikasima
A mystical and notable mountain located in the Palumeu village in Sipaliwini District of Suriname, Mount Kasikasima lies in the Upper Tapanahony River. This destination showcases an amazing wonder of nature because of its gushing rapids and inviting jungle. Mount Kasikasima offers various activities like canoeing, jungle hiking and swimming in the rapids and river.
Independence Square (Onafhankelijkheidsplein)
A town square along the Suriname River Independence Square or Onafhankelijkheidsplein was once called as Oranjeplein before Suriname’s independence was declared in 1975. This destination is situated in the historical old town of Paramaribo close to the presidential palace. Independence Square is a famous relaxing place for local and foreign tourists because of its surrounding colonial architectures and the Palmentium, where tall royal palms are seen.
Fort Zeelandia
Fort Zeelandia, which is a well-repaired fortress built in a moated pentagon design, has witnessed how rich Suriname’s history was. This destination showcases colonial structures and other artifacts that were dated between 16th and 17th centuries. Fort Zeelandia was originally made up of woods when it was built in 1640, then it was reconstructed using bricks and was named Fort Willoughby.
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, which is the biggest wooden structure across the Western Hemisphere or possibly in the world, was designated by Pope Francis in 2014 as a minor basilica. This is one of the most visited destinations in Suriname because of its historical significance. Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral was closed to the public for renovations that took 25 years to finish, and it was only recently when it was opened to the public again for worshipping and exploring.
Brownsberg Nature Park
Considered as the most visited tourist attractions in Suriname, Brownsberg Nature Park attracts around 20000 local and foreign tourists every year. This destination showcases stunning flora and fauna with its mystical waterfalls and picturesque view of its rainforest. Brownsberg Nature Park is home to wildlife such as tapirs, birds, jaguars and monkeys.
Galibi Nature Reserve
Galibi Nature Reserve is one of the most important nesting areas for sea turtles, especially olive ridley turtles. Galibi is said to be one of the oldest ethnic villages in Suriname, and the nature reserve is a protected area to help preserve marine life especially sea turtles.
Brokopondo Reservoir
Brokopondo Reservoir is one of the world’s largest reservoirs running almost one percent of Suriname, as it measures 602 square miles. This destination offers boat tours and canoe tours where alligators can be seen along the reservoir and the Afobaka Dam.