Day 1: Arrive in Paramaribo
After arriving in Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, settle into your accommodation and get familiar with the city. Take a stroll along the Waterfront Promenade (Waterkant), a lively area with restaurants and bars. It’s a great spot to enjoy some local food and watch cargo ships drift along the Suriname River.
Later, visit the Independence Square, where you can see the Presidential Palace, an important colonial building. Across the street, you’ll find the lush Palmentuin (Palm Garden). It’s a peaceful place to unwind, shaded by towering royal palms.
If you’d like to explore more history, head over to Fort Zeelandia. The fort has a long history dating back to the Dutch colonial era, and today it houses the Suriname Museum. It’s an excellent introduction to the country.
Day 2: Explore Paramaribo’s Cultural Side
Start your day by visiting the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral. It’s one of the largest wooden buildings in the Western hemisphere and an iconic landmark in Paramaribo. The intricate wooden interior is impressive and worth the visit.
Next, head to the Neveh Shalom Synagogue and the adjacent Mosque Keizerstraat. Both buildings stand out as a testament to the religious harmony that exists in Suriname. It’s unique to see these two religious sites peacefully co-existing side by side.
For lunch, visit the vibrant Central Market. This is where locals buy fresh produce, so it’s a great opportunity to try local snacks and meet friendly vendors. Don’t shy away from trying something you don’t recognize—you might discover a new favorite dish.
In the afternoon, visit the Surinaams Museum, which has exhibits about the country’s history, colonization, and independence. End your day with a relaxed dinner at one of the city’s many Creole or Javanese restaurants.
Day 3: Day Trip to Brownsberg Nature Park
Today, head out for a day trip to Brownsberg Nature Park, a lush rainforest reserve about 2 hours from Paramaribo. It’s a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of Suriname. The park offers several trails with waterfalls, such as the Irenevallen and Leoval, which makes for a refreshing break after a hike.
The views over the Brokopondo Reservoir from the top of Brownsberg are stunning. If you’re into birdwatching, the park is also home to various birds, including toucans and parrots.
Be sure to take enough water and snacks for the day. Once you’re back in Paramaribo in the late afternoon, grab some dinner at a local restaurant and rest up for the next day’s adventure.
Day 4: Travel to Berg en Dal
In the morning, take a roughly 90-minute drive from Paramaribo to the village of Berg en Dal. This place offers a beautiful rainforest lodge experience by the Suriname River. Once there, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are ziplines, kayaking activities, and hiking paths you can enjoy. Otherwise, sit back and relax near the river and take in the serene environment.
For the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset by the water and indulge in some local dishes for dinner.
Day 5: Visit the Jodensavanne (Jewish Savannah)
On your way back to Paramaribo, stop by the Jodensavanne. It’s an important historical site where Jews fleeing the Inquisition settled in the 17th century. This area was once home to a thriving Jewish community, and today, you can explore the old ruins of the synagogue and a cemetery that tells the story of their past.
The Jodensavanne is an interesting yet quiet place to visit and learn about another layer of Suriname’s multicultural history. Once you’ve finished walking around, return to Paramaribo in the afternoon.
Spend the rest of the day at your leisure. If you’re not too tired, go for a nice walk around Palmentuin again, or find a riverside café to enjoy the breeze and relax.
Day 6: Visit the Commewijne District
Today, take a half-day trip to the Commewijne District, located just across the Suriname River from Paramaribo. The district is known for its plantations, many of which played an important role during Suriname’s colonial period. You can visit some of the still-standing plantation houses like Frederiksdorp, which have been converted into small hotels and heritage sites.
For the best experience, take a boat cruise along the river and enjoy the scenery as you spot birds and possibly even dolphins in the waters.
When you return to Paramaribo in the afternoon, take the opportunity to visit any areas you haven’t seen yet. You can wind down with a visit to a coffee shop or have a final evening of local Surinamese cuisine at one of the city’s many casual restaurants.
Day 7: Relax or Visit Peperpot Nature Park
For your final day, keep things flexible. If you’d like to experience more nature, head to Peperpot Nature Park, located just 30 minutes from Paramaribo. It’s an easy place to explore, with well-marked trails through former plantation grounds that are now returned to nature. You might even spot monkeys and tropical birds.
Alternatively, you can use the day to rest or pack in more city sightseeing depending on your preference.
Later, spend your last evening back at the Waterfront Promenade or enjoy a relaxed dinner in the city. It’s a great way to end your trip and soak in the last views of Paramaribo.
Final Thoughts
Suriname may not be the first destination that comes to mind, but its mix of culture, history, and nature is worth the visit. Take your time, enjoy the relaxed pace of life, and experience the diversity that makes this country so unique.
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