Nestled on the northern coast of South America, Suriname holds countless treasures
waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. From pristine rainforests to
colonial architecture, this former Dutch colony offers a unique blend of natural
wonders and historical sites that often go unnoticed.
Whether a nature enthusiast or a history buff, these hidden gems will give you an
authentic taste of Suriname’s diverse heritage and stunning landscapes.
Raleighvallen
The pristine Raleighvallen section of the Central Suriname Nature Reserve
showcases dramatic rapids and rich biodiversity along the Coppename River.
Ancient granite outcrops provide nesting sites for the vibrant Guianan cock-of-the-
rock birds.
Local Indigenous guides share a deep knowledge of medicinal plants and wildlife behavior passed down through generations. The surrounding primary rainforest hosts eight primates and hundreds of bird species.
Morning walks offer the best opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul
Standing proudly in Paramaribo’s historic center, the 1885 Cathedral of Saints Peter
and Paul is South America’s largest wooden church. Its wooden construction
showcases extraordinary craftsmanship using native Surinamese cedar and other
local hardwoods.
The building’s Gothic Revival architecture demonstrates unique adaptations to the tropical climate. The restored interior features original stained glass windows and hand-carved details.
Regular guided tours explain the cathedral’s historical significance and architectural innovations.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Pepperpot Nature Park
The historic Peperpot plantation site now serves as a nature park, protecting
important wildlife habitats outside Paramaribo. Former plantation buildings and
processing facilities have been preserved, offering insights into colonial-era
agriculture.
Walking trails wind through the secondary forests where monkeys, sloths, and numerous bird species can be observed. The site’s proximity to the city makes it an accessible escape into nature.
Local guides share both natural and cultural history during morning wildlife walks.
Brownsberg Nature Park
Brownsberg Nature Park rises 1,640 feet above the surrounding rainforest, offering
dramatic vistas and rich biodiversity. The park’s system of trails includes waterfalls
and viewpoints that offer views of the vast Brokopondo Reservoir.
Over 350 species of birds have been recorded at this site, providing a paradise for birdwatchers. The former bauxite mining site has been well reclaimed by nature.
Visit the plateau at dawn to catch glimpses of various species of monkeys and tropical birds.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Commewijne River Plantations
Historic plantation sites along the Commewijne River tell stories of Suriname’s
agricultural past and colonial heritage. The restored Frederiksdorp plantation house
offers overnight stays in a carefully preserved setting.
Traditional coffee and cocoa processing methods are demonstrated in New Amsterdam. River tours reveal multiple plantation ruins being reclaimed by the jungle.
Local historians share both triumphant and tragic stories of the region’s development.
Marienburg
The abandoned Marienburg sugar factory complex ialong the Commewijne River is a
testament to Suriname’s industrial heritage. Original machinery and processing
equipment remain in place, frozen in time since operations ceased.
The site includes a historic narrow-gauge railway system once used to transport sugarcane. Local guides explain the sugar production process and social history.
The surrounding worker housing provides insights into plantation life.
Galibi Nature Reserve
Between February and August, the protected beaches of Galibi Nature Reserve
provide crucial nesting grounds for four species of sea turtles. Indigenous Carib
communities have protected these nesting sites for generations, carefully watching
the arriving turtles.
Local conservation efforts have helped increase turtle populations while providing sustainable income for nearby villages. Guided night tours allow visitors to witness the ancient ritual of turtle nesting.
The pristine shoreline stretches for three miles without modern development.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Voltzberg
From the canopy to 787 feet high, the aspect of the impressive Voltzberg granite
dome reflects panoramic views of the pristine jungle. The two-hour climb takes quite
an effort, but its benefit is when one gets to see the cock-of-the-rock birds in their
natural habitat.
Local guides also brief them regarding flora, fauna, and the area’s cultural significance. Central Suriname Nature Reserve protects vast stretches of untouched rainforest on either side.
Dawn visits allow scopes to view morning mist rolling over this vast green expanse.
Fort Zeelandia
The Suriname Museum is housed in the beautifully restored Fort Zeelandia in
Paramaribo. The British built the fort in the 1640s; later, it was a Dutch administrative
center.
The museum collections include artifacts of the Indigenous people, colonial periods, and the plantation era. It is strategically located along the Suriname River and has historical significance.
The surrounding garden features traditional medicinal plants and heritage species.
Awarradam
The remote Awarradam lodge offers an authentic rainforest experience in traditional
Maroon territory. Located near rapids on the Upper Suriname River, the site provides
opportunities for cultural exchange and nature exploration.
Local guides share traditional ecological knowledge during forest walks and river trips. The surrounding area features excellent swimming spots and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Evening activities include storytelling and demonstrations of traditional music.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Kasikasima
The Kasikasima Mountain peaks tower above the southern rainforest, which is
sacred to Indigenous peoples, but a long and arduous trek through rugged terrain
means only expert guidance and preparation should be attempted, though the
payoffs are magnificent views. The local Indigenous guide shares stories of old and
passes on knowledge.
There are so many rare plants and animals within the forest; multi-day excursions allow for fully immersing in this distant wilderness.
Albina Market
The riverside market in Albina serves as a cultural crossroads where Surinamese,
French Guianese, and Indigenous traders meet. Local vendors offer traditional
crafts, medicinal plants, and fresh produce from both countries.
The market’s location along the Marowijne River continues centuries-old trading patterns. Weekend visits showcase the region’s cultural diversity through food and crafts.
Nieuw Amsterdam
The historic fort and open-air museum at Nieuw Amsterdam preserve important
aspects of Suriname’s colonial history. Original structures and artifacts tell stories of
military presence and river defense strategies.
The site includes a traditional medicinal plant garden and a historic cemetery. Local guides provide context for the fort’s role in Suriname’s development.
The strategic location at the Commewijne and Suriname Rivers confluence explains its historical importance.
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Jewish Savanna
The remains of the historic Jodensavanne settlement mark the site of one of the
earliest Jewish communities in the Americas. Archaeological excavations continue
revealing details about daily life in this 17th-century community.
The restored cemetery contains graves with Portuguese, Hebrew, and Dutch inscriptions. Local historians share stories of religious freedom and cultural exchange. The surrounding forest has reclaimed much of the original settlement, creating an atmospheric site.
Discover Suriname’s Living Heritage Today
These are just a few of the countless hidden gems of Suriname, each one holding
unique stories and insights into this country’s natural and cultural riches. From
waterfalls in isolated areas to ancient ruins, each site speaks about the development
of this diverse nation.
Whether exploring pristine rainforests or making cultural connections in traditional
villages, Suriname’s lesser-known attractions promise unforgettable experiences for
those willing to venture off the beaten path.
More from Travel Pug
- 15 Dangerous European Cities to Avoid
- 15 Caribbean Islands Where Tourists Keep Getting Scammed
- The 20 Most Fascinating Abandoned Places: A Journey Through Time and Forgotten Spaces
- 15 Hidden Places in the Smithsonian Museums Locals Love: A Guide to Lesser-Known Treasures
- 16 Hidden Florida Beach Towns That Aren’t Overrun with Tourists
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.