Suriname, a hidden gem of South America

Dive into the heart of a country where nature and cultural diversity intertwine harmoniously. Imagine exploring lush tropical forests, biodiversity sanctuaries home to rare species of fauna and flora. Let yourself be enchanted by the songs of colorful birds and the whisper of hidden waterfalls. Savor the welcoming warmth of a population with diverse origins, a true human rainbow that will introduce you to fascinating traditions and exotic flavors. Thrill-seekers will be captivated by jungle adventures, with memorable treks to mysterious peaks and thrilling canoe descents along tumultuous rivers. Seeking serenity? Glide peacefully along the water, where playful dolphins dance at dusk. Every moment spent in this country is a promise of unique discoveries, where raw and wild beauty reveals itself at every turn. Come experience an unforgettable journey and let yourself be charmed by this unspoiled corner of the world.

Paramaribo is home to a great ethnic diversity that gives it a unique identity, whether in terms of religion, culture, or art. The historic center of the capital has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 for its unique architecture, resulting from the meeting of European construction techniques with indigenous materials and know-how. The presence of religious buildings from different faiths (churches, Hindu temples, mosques, synagogues) illustrates the great tolerance that characterizes the city. "Parbo" is also a lively capital with a multitude of markets, shops, casinos, and restaurants offering the opportunity to taste various cuisines: Indian, Javanese, Creole, Chinese, Dutch dishes. To escape the urban bustle, one can take a boat excursion on the Suriname River to watch dolphins at sunset.

With its 579,000 inhabitants, the population of Suriname includes many communities. The most significant are the Hindustanis and Creoles, who are of mixed European and African descent. Then, there are the Javanese (Indonesians) and the Maroons, descendants of escaped African slaves. The rest of the population is made up of Amerindians, Chinese, and Europeans. This entire community coexists in exemplary tolerance and gives Suriname great cultural and social richness.

The Amazon rainforest is the country's main wealth. The government understands this well and seeks to preserve this fragile ecosystem on which a large part of its identity has been built. Suriname thus has one park and eleven nature reserves, including one of the largest in the world: the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located right in the center of the country, it covers 11% of the national territory, or about 15 million hectares! Also worth mentioning is the Brownsberg Nature Park, located just 130 km from Paramaribo, which is one of the most popular in the country. Ecotourism is Suriname's main attraction. Each reserve has its own specificities and many operators offer tours lasting several days. It is by venturing into the interior of the country that one can discover the full beauty of the virgin forest and the richness of Amerindian culture.

Suriname is an original destination still spared from mass tourism. Visiting the country can be a continuation of a trip to Guyana. Travelers seeking thrills and a change of scenery will not be disappointed. Meeting the last inhabitants of Amerindian villages, located in the middle of a wild Amazon rainforest, is a unique experience. Adventure tourism is also very developed, and there are many possibilities. Most destinations require a flight on a small plane flying over the jungle. Some sites are hard-earned, like the mythical Kasikasima Mountain that towers over the virgin forest, accessible only by trekking. Many journeys are made by canoe along rivers where you'll encounter impressive rapids, such as those on the Corantijn River. Fishing enthusiasts will not be left out, with over 350 species of fish inhabiting the Amazon waters. Whatever activities you choose, discovering Suriname will fulfill its promises of adventure.