Is Suriname Worth Visiting? Unique Culture and Natural Wonders of This South American Country

Nestled away in South America is the quaint country of Suriname. The former Dutch colony has seen its fair share of problems, from corruption to dictators, the country has seen it all. However, the nation has unique natural and cultural landmarks, making it a unique tourist destination for its American neighbours and globally. If you are a person who loves to travel, you may have the question, "Is Suriname worth visiting?" well, read along as we answer the question in this blog. 

Suriname's Culture

For those who may not be aware, Suriname is situated in northern South America, bordered by the non-Spanish nations of Guyana and French Guyana. Suriname is a bit of an anomaly when it comes to the culture of South America. It is neither a Spanish-speaking nor a Portuguese-speaking nation like the rest of Latin America, nor does it have French influences like the Caribbean. It is a former Dutch colony, and its current society is multicultural and has tremendous ethnic diversity.

The country’s cultural landscape includes descendants of Indigenous peoples, Africans, Asians, and Europeans, each contributing to Surinamese culture. This diversity is evident in the country’s festivals, cuisine, music, and languages. The Surinamese food scene is one of the country's advantages for tourists. From Indian food to Indonesian food to Virginian Caribbean food, Suriname's restaurants and culinary delights have got you covered. 

So that answers the question, "Is Suriname worth visiting?" for all food lovers, but what about nature enthusiasts?

Natural Wonders

Well, lucky for all the nature-obsessed travellers, Suriname is also home to some stunning natural landscapes, from lush rainforests and majestic rivers to pristine beaches and unique wildlife. The country's commitment to preserving its natural environment has resulted in several protected areas and nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts.

The country is covered with a wide area of the Amazon rainforest, with the dense and diverse forest housing an incredible array of flora and fauna, including many species that are not found anywhere else in the world. Nature reserves like the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. Here, one can encounter exotic birds, jaguars, giant river otters, and an abundance of plant life.

Suriname’s river systems are also a big tourist attraction, including the Suriname, Marowijne, and Corantijn rivers, which are integral to the country's natural beauty. These rivers offer opportunities for 12-day boat rides, fishing, and spotting wildlife along their banks. One of the most spectacular sights is the Raleighvallen (Raleigh Falls) and the Blanche Marie Falls, which are among the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Suriname. The boats are also used to access islands such as Isadou Island or the Howler Monkey Island, which, as you guessed, is the home to a large number of Howler Monkeys. Even public transport is based around rivers due to the limited accessibility to roads. 

Apart from these, the nation has many more environmental sights to behold. These include the beautiful Bigi Pan wetlands area, which is a biodiversity hotspot. The country also has various nature parks, which include the Brownsberg Nature Park and the Galibi Nature Reserve. Tourists can also explore a hidden gem, which is the Neotropical Butterfly Park, which is home to several tropical and exotic butterfly species. All these destinations make Suriname a wonderful experience for any nature lover, answering the question "Is Suriname worth visiting?" with an astounding yes!

Historical and Architectural Sights

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Suriname boasts a rich historical and architectural heritage. The capital city, Paramaribo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historic sites. Walking through the streets of Paramaribo, visitors can admire the distinctive Dutch colonial buildings, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The city’s wooden architecture, characterized by elegant facades and gabled roofs, tells the story of Suriname’s colonial past. Notable landmarks include Fort Zeelandia, the Presidential Palace, and the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, which is one of the largest wooden structures in the Western Hemisphere.

Paramaribo is also home to several museums and cultural centres that offer insights into Suriname’s history and cultural and religious diversity. The Surinaams Museum, located in Fort Zeelandia, showcases artefacts from the Indigenous, African, and colonial periods. The Neveh Shalom Synagogue and the Keizerstraat Mosque, located next to each other, symbolize the country’s religious tolerance and diversity, with each of these structures serving as important landmarks for the city center. To any history or architecture buff, Paramaribo is a must-visit and will surely serve as another affirmative answer to the question you had- is Suriname worth visiting?

Is Suriname Worth Visiting?

Now that we have gone over the extravagant and beautiful destinations this country has to offer, I am sure we all can put a pin on the question, "Is Suriname worth visiting?" With the country seeing a reduction in the amount of Dutch tourists, the nation is opening its doors to tourists from all origins, mainly American tourists. With a bit of common sense and an eye for health and safety, Suriname is easily one of the most beautiful countries, especially if you are keen on visiting South America. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Suriname offers a unique and rewarding experience for travellers. Whether you're a food lover, a nature enthusiast or a history buff, Suriname has something for everyone. Despite some challenges, Suriname's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural treasures ensures that visitors can enjoy a memorable experience. So, if you're pondering, "Is Suriname worth visiting?" the answer is a resounding yes. 

FAQs