Suriname, a small country in northeast South America, is a blend of a tropical rainforest, amazing rivers, colonial background, and great ethnic diversity. This country keeps tourists engaged with dense and untamed forests and lively modern cities with shopping, fine dining areas, and impeccable glitter of nightlife. There you can find almost every type of ethnic diversity such as British and Dutch colonialists, African slaves, Indonesians, Indians, and Chinese among all who call this land home. It is fun communicating with such a diverse community in so many languages floating around. Let’s have a look at some of the best places to wander around in Suriname!
Neotropical Butterfly Park
Neotropical Butterfly Park is an ideal place for the survival of butterflies and birds, excellent supply of water in Suriname makes this Park the most resourceful park in Suriname. The climate and vegetation of Suriname make it one of the top countries in the world with the highest number of butterfly species. Neotropical Butterfly Park is situated a few miles away from Paramaribo. This park gives unforgettable exposure to nature that can truly be achieved by seeing the natural reserve with dozens of butterflies from Suriname. Last but not least, an insect museum is also a must-visit site in the park that has so many insect species, all brought from Suriname’s rainforest. Just a few meters away from the insect museum, an exhibition hall with a collection of impressive paintings awaits visitors.
Galibi Coppename Nature Reserve
Galibi Coppename Nature Reserve, located near the mouth of the Coppename River, is a beautiful nature reserve. A paradise for birdwatchers is a niche for many endangered manatees, and home to thousands of turtles from April to August. The foundation for Nature Conservation, Sitnasu, is helping people by organizing tours to and through the reserve. This foundation has the main aim to promote nature conservation, research, and responsible tourism. You are more likely to get educated by the tour guide. You should hope to see giant turtles who return here to lay eggs during laying season.
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
This piece of land is home to almost 40% of the plants and a few rare animals that are only to be found in the Guianas. The largest of Suriname’s natural forest, Central Suriname covers almost 12% of the country’s total landmass. Raleighvallen, Raleigh Falls, is believed to be the most beautiful attraction in Central Suriname, which is a long and low staircase of water that flows down from the Coppename River. Species of exotic birds can be found here, including Guiana cock-of-the-rock, spider monkeys, and electric eels. Voltzbergisa, a 240m granite dome, is heaven for hikers, you must visit if you are passionate about hiking. Though two and half hour steep ascent is a bit challenging, you will be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the entire forest. Not to be missed.
Palmentuin
Palmentuin, an amazing garden, is situated just behind the Suriname Presidential Palace. Palmentuin is a Dutch word which means palm garden, it boasts calm and poise break from busy city life. About 1000 royal palms were planted in the 1600s as per the direction of the first Dutch Governor in Suriname. This garden has a separate children playground, several monuments of importance to the history of Suriname and many benches to on and enjoy calm evening. This garden is the most desirable place especially during the hot afternoons, but make sure to leave the premises of garden before darkness prevail due to not proper arrangements of lights in the garden.