Famous Landmarks in Suriname

Suriname, officially the Republic of Suriname, is located on the northeastern coast of South America, bordered by French Guiana to the east, Brazil to the south, Guyana to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. The capital city is Paramaribo, with other major cities including Nieuw Nickerie, Lelydorp, and Moengo. Suriname’s economy is based on mining (bauxite, gold), agriculture (rice, bananas), and oil. Key landmarks include the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Fort Zeelandia. Suriname is a member of the United Nations (UN), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). The country faces challenges related to economic dependence on natural resources, environmental sustainability, and governance. (Source: smartercomputing.org)

Famous Landmarks in Suriname

Top 10 Landmarks in Suriname

  1. Historic Inner City of Paramaribo

The Historic Inner City of Paramaribo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and multicultural heritage. Dating back to the 17th century, Paramaribo’s historic center reflects the country’s colonial past, with Dutch, British, Jewish, and indigenous influences evident in its buildings and landmarks. Visitors to the historic inner city can wander through colorful streets lined with wooden houses, visit historic sites such as the Presidential Palace and Fort Zeelandia, and explore bustling markets and waterfront promenades.

Location: The Historic Inner City of Paramaribo is located in the capital city of Paramaribo, along the Suriname River in the Paramaribo District.

Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to explore the Historic Inner City of Paramaribo, as it is an open-air historic district accessible to the public free of charge.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM), also known as Paramaribo-Zanderij International Airport, is the main international airport serving Paramaribo and the surrounding area.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations in Paramaribo.

Special Attention: Visitors should take time to explore Paramaribo’s historic neighborhoods on foot, admiring the unique architecture and vibrant street scenes. It’s also recommended to visit the historic district during the cooler hours of the day to avoid the midday heat.

  1. Brownsberg Nature Park

Brownsberg Nature Park, also known as Brownsberg Nature Reserve or Brownsberg National Park, is a protected area located in the Brokopondo District of Suriname. Covering over 12,000 hectares of pristine rainforest and mountainous terrain, Brownsberg offers visitors a glimpse into Suriname’s biodiverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, toucans, jaguars, and countless plant species. Visitors to Brownsberg can enjoy hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and waterfalls, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and overnight camping.

Location: Brownsberg Nature Park is situated approximately 130 kilometers south of Paramaribo, near the town of Brownsweg in the Brokopondo District.

Ticket Price: As of [current date], the entrance fee for Brownsberg Nature Park is approximately $10 USD per person. Additional fees may apply for guided tours or camping.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the nearest airport to Brownsberg Nature Park.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Brownsberg Nature Park.

Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for hiking in a tropical rainforest environment, including wearing sturdy footwear, carrying sufficient water and snacks, and applying insect repellent. It’s also advisable to hire a local guide for exploring the park’s trails and wildlife habitats.

  1. Galibi Nature Reserve

Galibi Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the northeastern corner of Suriname, near the border with French Guiana. Known for its pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife, Galibi is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The reserve is home to nesting sites for endangered sea turtles, including leatherback, green, and hawksbill turtles, which lay their eggs along the sandy shores from February to August. Visitors to Galibi can witness the spectacle of turtle nesting and hatching, explore the mangrove forests by boat, and relax on secluded beaches surrounded by natural beauty.

Location: Galibi Nature Reserve is situated on the northeastern coast of Suriname, near the village of Galibi in the Marowijne District.

Ticket Price: Access to Galibi Nature Reserve may require permits or guided tours arranged through authorized operators. Prices vary depending on the type of excursion and services provided.

Nearby Airports: Zorg en Hoop Airport (ORG) in Paramaribo offers domestic flights to Albina, the nearest town to Galibi Nature Reserve. Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) is the main international airport serving Paramaribo.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Galibi Nature Reserve.

Special Attention: Visitors should follow guidelines for responsible ecotourism and wildlife viewing to minimize disturbance to nesting turtles and other wildlife. It’s essential to respect the natural environment and refrain from littering or disturbing sensitive habitats.

  1. Central Suriname Nature Reserve

Central Suriname Nature Reserve, also known as Centraal Suriname Natuurreservaat, is a vast protected area covering over 1.6 million hectares of pristine rainforest and wilderness in central Suriname. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the reserve is one of the largest intact tropical rainforest reserves in the world and is home to a remarkable diversity of plant and animal species. Visitors to Central Suriname Nature Reserve can explore its remote wilderness, trekking through dense forests, traversing rivers and waterfalls, and encountering rare wildlife such as giant otters, harpy eagles, and jaguars. The reserve offers opportunities for adventure tourism, scientific research, and ecotourism experiences amidst unparalleled natural beauty.

Location: Central Suriname Nature Reserve is located in central Suriname, spanning parts of the Brokopondo, Para, and Sipaliwini Districts.

Ticket Price: Access to Central Suriname Nature Reserve may require permits or guided tours arranged through authorized operators. Prices vary depending on the type of excursion and services provided.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving central Suriname.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Central Suriname Nature Reserve.

Special Attention: Visitors should come prepared for remote and rugged conditions when exploring Central Suriname Nature Reserve, including carrying essential supplies, camping equipment, and navigation tools. It’s essential to adhere to park regulations and guidelines for minimizing impact on the environment and wildlife.

  1. Raleighvallen Nature Reserve

Raleighvallen Nature Reserve, also known as Raleighvallen-Voltzberg Nature Reserve, is a protected area located in the Brokopondo District of Suriname. Named after the English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh, the reserve encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including pristine rainforests, savannas, and river habitats. One of the highlights of Raleighvallen is the stunning Raleighvallen waterfall, a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. Visitors to the reserve can hike to the top of Voltzberg, a granite dome offering panoramic views of the rainforest canopy, or explore the area’s rivers and waterfalls by boat or kayak.

Location: Raleighvallen Nature Reserve is situated in the Brokopondo District of Suriname, approximately 150 kilometers south of Paramaribo.

Ticket Price: Access to Raleighvallen Nature Reserve may require permits or guided tours arranged through authorized operators. Prices vary depending on the type of excursion and services provided.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Brokopondo District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Raleighvallen Nature Reserve.

Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for outdoor activities in a tropical rainforest environment, including wearing appropriate clothing, carrying insect repellent, and staying hydrated. It’s also advisable to hire experienced guides for exploring the reserve’s trails and waterways.

  1. Jodensavanne

Jodensavanne, or Jewish Savannah, is a historic site located along the Suriname River, approximately 50 kilometers south of Paramaribo. Established in the 17th century by Jewish settlers fleeing persecution in Europe, Jodensavanne was once a thriving agricultural and trading community. The site features remnants of Jewish cemeteries, synagogues, and plantation ruins, offering insights into Suriname’s multicultural history and Jewish heritage. Visitors to Jodensavanne can explore the archaeological remains, visit the onsite museum, and learn about the legacy of the Jewish community in Suriname.

Location: Jodensavanne is situated along the Suriname River, approximately 50 kilometers south of Paramaribo in the Para District.

Ticket Price: There may be a nominal fee for guided tours or access to the onsite museum at Jodensavanne.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Para District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Jodensavanne.

Special Attention: Visitors should be respectful when exploring Jodensavanne and its historic sites, including observing any signage or guidelines provided onsite. It’s also advisable to visit during daylight hours and wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain.

  1. Commewijne River

The Commewijne River is a scenic waterway located in the Commewijne District of Suriname, known for its picturesque landscapes, historic plantations, and abundant birdlife. The river winds its way through lush rainforests, mangrove swamps, and agricultural landscapes, offering opportunities for boat tours, birdwatching, and exploration of historic sites. Visitors to the Commewijne River can cruise past former plantation estates, such as Frederiksdorp and Mariënburg, which offer insights into Suriname’s colonial history and plantation economy. The river is also home to a variety of bird species, including herons, kingfishers, and egrets, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Location: The Commewijne River flows through the Commewijne District of Suriname, approximately 20 kilometers east of Paramaribo.

Ticket Price: The cost of boat tours or excursions on the Commewijne River may vary depending on the operator and duration of the tour.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Commewijne District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near the Commewijne River.

Special Attention: Visitors should bring binoculars and cameras for birdwatching and wildlife spotting along the Commewijne River. It’s also recommended to wear sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent when exploring the river and its surroundings.

  1. Peperpot Nature Park

Peperpot Nature Park is a former coffee and cacao plantation turned nature reserve located near Paramaribo in the Commewijne District of Suriname. Established in the 19th century, Peperpot was one of the largest coffee plantations in Suriname and played a significant role in the country’s colonial economy. Today, the park offers visitors a chance to explore its lush rainforest trails, observe wildlife, and learn about the region’s cultural and natural heritage. Visitors to Peperpot can hike through the plantation ruins, visit the onsite museum, and enjoy birdwatching along the park’s trails.

Location: Peperpot Nature Park is located in the Commewijne District of Suriname, approximately 10 kilometers east of Paramaribo.

Ticket Price: There may be a nominal entrance fee for visiting Peperpot Nature Park, which helps support conservation efforts and maintenance of the park’s facilities.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Commewijne District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Peperpot Nature Park.

Special Attention: Visitors should be respectful of the natural environment and cultural heritage of Peperpot Nature Park, including refraining from littering or disturbing wildlife. It’s also advisable to bring water, snacks, and insect repellent when exploring the park’s trails.

  1. Tafelberg Nature Reserve

Tafelberg Nature Reserve, also known as Tafelberg Nature Park, is a protected area located in the Sipaliwini District of Suriname. Named for its distinctive tabletop mountain, Tafelberg offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its rugged landscapes, pristine rainforests, and hidden waterfalls. The reserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including rare orchids, giant anteaters, and golden frogs. Visitors to Tafelberg can embark on multi-day hiking expeditions to the summit of the mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and observe unique rock formations and geological features.

Location: Tafelberg Nature Reserve is situated in the Sipaliwini District of Suriname, approximately 250 kilometers south of Paramaribo.

Ticket Price: Access to Tafelberg Nature Reserve may require permits or guided tours arranged through authorized operators. Prices vary depending on the type of excursion and services provided.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Sipaliwini District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Tafelberg Nature Reserve.

Special Attention: Visitors should come prepared for challenging hiking conditions when exploring Tafelberg Nature Reserve, including steep terrain, dense vegetation, and unpredictable weather. It’s essential to hire experienced guides and carry essential supplies, including food, water, and camping equipment.

  1. Nieuw Amsterdam

Nieuw Amsterdam is a historic town located on the eastern bank of the Suriname River, opposite the city of Paramaribo. Founded by the Dutch in the 17th century, Nieuw Amsterdam served as a colonial trading post and military outpost during Suriname’s colonial period. Today, the town preserves its colonial heritage through its historic architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. Visitors to Nieuw Amsterdam can explore the Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, which houses a museum showcasing Suriname’s history and maritime heritage, or stroll through the town’s streets lined with colonial-era buildings and waterfront promenades.

Location: Nieuw Amsterdam is situated on the eastern bank of the Suriname River, approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Paramaribo.

Ticket Price: There may be a nominal fee for visiting Fort Nieuw Amsterdam and its onsite museum.

Nearby Airports: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Paramaribo is the main international airport serving the Commewijne District.

Railway Stations: Suriname does not have a railway network, so there are no railway stations near Nieuw Amsterdam.

Special Attention: Visitors should take time to explore Nieuw Amsterdam’s historic sites and museums, including Fort Nieuw Amsterdam and the Openlucht Museum, which offers insights into Suriname’s cultural heritage. It’s also recommended to visit during the cooler hours of the day to enjoy walking tours and outdoor activities.