What Is Tourism Like in Suriname?

By Robert Palmer

Suriname, a small country nestled in the northeastern coast of South America, is often overlooked by tourists. However, this hidden gem offers an abundance of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance that makes it a unique destination to explore.

Nature and Wildlife

Suriname boasts of a diverse ecosystem that includes tropical rainforests, savannas, and a vast coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The country is home to an impressive array of wildlife such as jaguars, giant otters, anacondas, and hundreds of species of birds. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in the world and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Culture and People

Suriname has a melting pot culture with influences from Dutch colonialism, African slaves brought over by the Dutch East India Company as well as indigenous people. The country has a diverse population made up of various ethnic groups including Creoles, Maroons (descendants of escaped slaves), Javanese, Hindustani (people from India), Chinese and indigenous people. This cultural diversity can be seen in Suriname’s cuisine which includes dishes like Pom (a baked dish made with chicken or fish), Roti (a flatbread served with curried vegetables or meat) and Saoto soup (a spicy soup with chicken).

Historical Significance

Suriname was once a Dutch colony until it gained independence in 1975. The capital city Paramaribo has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. The city also features several museums such as the Surinaams Museum which showcases the country’s history and culture.

Tourism Infrastructure

Although tourism is not yet well-developed in Suriname compared to other South American countries like Brazil or Peru; there are still plenty of options for travelers. There are several hotels, lodges, and resorts that cater to different budgets. The country’s national airline, Surinam Airways, connects Paramaribo to several international destinations including Amsterdam and Miami.

    What to Do

Some of the popular tourist activities in Suriname include:

  • Visiting the Central Suriname Nature Reserve
  • Exploring the historic city of Paramaribo
  • Taking a river tour along the Suriname River
  • Visiting Maroon villages and learning about their culture and traditions
  • Participating in a culinary tour to experience local food and drinks
  • In conclusion, Suriname may not be a well-known tourist destination, but it offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and history that is sure to captivate any traveler. With a little bit of planning and research, you can have an unforgettable experience exploring this hidden gem in South America.