East Coast Travel Guide

Plan your trip to East Coast, Suriname with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.


Introduction to East Coast

Nestled in the northeastern region of Suriname, the East Coast spans from the Suriname River to the Marowijne River with a plethora of natural beauty and historical significance. Explore the untouched nature, vast plains, lively beaches, and exotic wildlife while unraveling the rich history of Suriname.

List of Places to Visit in East Coast

The East Coast of Suriname has something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures to culturally significant landmarks. Here are some of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Nieuw Amsterdam: A UNESCO-listed fortified city with the remains of the Dutch colonial period in Suriname.

  • Peperpot Nature Preserve: Former coffee plantation now declared a nature preserve and designated as a bird sanctuary.

  • Jagtlust: A historic villa that now serves as a museum to showcase Suriname’s colonial history.

  • Kraagsteen Gallery: Gallery and art center showcasing Kraagsteen’s work, a famous Surinamese artist known for his woodcarvings and unique pieces.

Natural Attractions of East Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Galibi Nature Reserve: Nesting site for the endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle.

  • Commewijne River: A beautiful tranquil river with fantastic bird watching opportunities and fascinating scenery.

  • Brownsberg Nature Park: A breathtaking National Park that is great for hiking, bird watching and it offers fantastic scenic views.

  • Bigi Pan Swamp: A stunning wetland consisting of an extensive water reserve surrounded by savannas, forests, and marshes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Coast

East Coast, Suriname is a nature lover’s paradise with miles of hiking and biking trails for exploration. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the East Coast are:

  • Peperpot Nature Preserve: A 7 km circular trail surround by crops, swamps, and forests.

  • Voltzberg and Raleigh Falls: A 15 km trail with stunning views of the forested savannahs and ferocious waterfalls.

  • Commewijne River: A 30 km trail riding towards the mesmerizing river with its unique collection of waterbirds.

Best Things to Do in East Coast: Activities and Tours

The East Coast of Suriname offers an endless list of fun activities and tours. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Sea Turtle Watching: Experience the wonder of the endangered leatherback turtles during their nesting season from February to August.

  • Canoeing on the Commewijne River: Explore the tranquil waterways while enjoying bird watching and taking in the sightseeing.

  • City Tours of Paramaribo: Learn about Suriname’s rich cultural history with a tour of the capital city of Paramaribo.

  • Quadracycle Adventures: Go on an epic off-road adventure riding these all-terrain bikes through the beautiful savannas.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Coast

Here is a week-long itinerary to help plan your trip to the East Coast of Suriname:

Day 1 - Arrival in Paramaribo, Suriname and afternoon sightseeing

Day 2 - Explore the historic city center of Paramaribo

Day 3 - Visit the Fort Nieuw Amsterdam and Peperpot Nature Reserve

Day 4 - Hike the fabled Voltzberg & Raleigh waterfalls

Day 5 - Canoe on the Commewijne River and visit the Jagtlust villa museum

Day 6 - Go Sea Turtle Watching and visit the Brownsberg Nature Park

Day 7 - Enjoy a relaxing day at the Galibi Nature Reserve with its unique collection of waterbirds

Food and Drink Scene of East Coast

Suriname is a melting pot of cultures, and the cuisine is undoubtedly a reflection of that. The East Coast of Suriname boasts an array of delicious and unique dishes and beverages that you must try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pom: Cassava, chicken, and citrus baked in banana leaves, making for an explosion of flavors.

  • Heri Heri: A combination of fluffy rice, beans, and salt-cured fish served with a side of plantain.

  • Bami: A Surinamese version of fried noodles with a mix of vegetables and meat.

  • Saoto Soup: A popular chicken noodle soup that is a blend of West African and Indonesian influences.

Local Beverages

  • Parbo Beer: A Surinamese beer named after the local brewery that produces it.

  • Awara Juice: A sweet and sour fruit juice made from the fruit of the Awara plant.

  • Sapakara: A traditional cassava drink with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Where to Stay in East Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The East Coast of Suriname has plenty of accommodation options from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of our favorite places to stay:

  • Atlantis Hotel & Casino: A beachfront hotel with numerous amenities, including a casino, pool, and fine dining restaurants.

  • De Plantage Guesthouse: Located in Commewijne, with views of the Commewijne River, this guesthouse offers a tranquil and comfortable stay.

  • Jacana Amazon Wellness Resort: A luxurious resort nestled in the pristine Amazon Rainforest with wellness facilities and excellent food and beverage outlets.

What to Buy in East Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From artisanal wood carvings to locally manufactured snacks, the East Coast has something special for every shopper. Here are some of the locally-made products you must take home:

  • Local Wood Carvings: Beautiful handmade wood carvings of animals, masks, and other decorative pieces.

  • Pinda Souvenirs: Roasted peanuts, locally grown, and sold in various packages that make for great souvenirs.

  • Handcrafted Woven Baskets: Colorful and durable baskets made from straw.

Local Culture and Customs of East Coast

Suriname is an amalgamation of various cultures and customs, and it is essential to respect and embrace the local traditions and beliefs. Giving a firm handshake and greeting with a friendly smile is a common custom in Suriname that is warmly appreciated.

Best Time to Visit East Coast

The climate in Suriname is relatively constant throughout the year, but the best time to visit the East Coast is during the dry season from February to July, where the weather is sunny and favorable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Coast

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions

  • Try different types of local cuisine

  • Carry cash when traveling to remote areas

  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially in the rainy season

Don’t:

  • Litter the natural habitats and throw trash in the rivers

  • Touch the wildlife

  • Carry valuable items in public places

  • Take pictures of people without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in East Coast

East Coast of Suriname is generally safe for travelers, but it is crucial to take precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying excessive cash and valuables. It is advisable to not travel to isolated areas at night.

Health in East Coast

It is necessary to take necessary health measures such as using mosquito repellent, taking malaria prophylaxis, and drinking bottled water to stay healthy during your trip to the East Coast of Suriname.

Getting to East Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

The most common ways to reach the East Coast of Suriname include flights, buses, and private cars.

Airports Near East Coast

The Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) located in the capital city of Paramaribo is the nearest airport to the East Coast.

Bus Stations Near East Coast

Buses depart from Paramaribo Central Station to Moengo, located near the East Coast starting at 7 AM.

Other Options

Private car hires are also available, and it makes for an excellent alternative transportation option.

How to Get Around in East Coast

Taxis, public transport, and car rentals are available in East Coast Suriname, making it easy to get around.

Where to Go Next from East Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The East Coast of Suriname is close to various other beautiful locations worth exploring. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Berg en Dal: A nature resort on the bank of the Suriname River great for outdoor adventure.

  • Galibi Nature Reserve: A mesmerizing natural reserve characterized by its exotic waterbirds.

  • Paramaribo: Suriname’s picturesque capital city with a rich cultural history.

Conclusion

The East Coast of Suriname is an excellent place for those who love adventure, history, and nature. With its endless natural beauty and cultural significance, it is a perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the unchartered territories of Suriname. Plan your next holiday to East Coast, Suriname, and be mesmerized by its charm.

East Coast Region East Coast Region Albina boats waiting for duty. Albina boats waiting for duty. Leatherback turtles can measure over 2 meters in size. Leatherback turtles can measure over 2 meters in size. Ruins of the old sugar factory in Mariënburg Ruins of the old sugar factory in Mariënburg