Suriname: A Family-Friendly Adventure to Brownsberg and Blaka Watra

  • Day 1: Brownsberg Nature Park
    2 hours (118 miles) from Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport

    Explore the tropical rainforest and breathtaking views of Brownsberg Nature Park. A must-see attraction for nature lovers, you can hike, swim in waterfalls, and witness an abundance of wildlife in their natural habitat. Stay overnight at the Brownsberg cabins or campsite.

  • Day 2: Blaka Watra
    1 hour 20 minutes (49 miles) from Brownsberg

    Cool off in the natural swimming pools at Blaka Watra, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery, and relax on the sandy beach. Kids can enjoy playing in the shallow waters while parents can indulge in a picnic with stunning views of the Suriname River.

  • Day 3: Paramaribo Zoo
    4 hours (138 miles) from Blaka Watra

    Located in Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, the Paramaribo Zoo is home to over 200 animals, including tapirs, sloths, jaguars, and monkeys. Your kids will enjoy the playground, petting zoo, and scheduled animal encounters throughout the day.

  • Day 4: Fort Zeelandia
    10 minutes (2 miles) from Paramaribo Zoo

    Learn about Suriname's colonial history at Fort Zeelandia, located in the heart of Paramaribo. This historic site was the scene of much conflict between the Dutch and English, and you can explore the restored fort, see the cannons, and visit the museum.

  • Day 5: Peperpot Nature Park
    2 hours 30 minutes (106 miles) from Fort Zeelandia

    Discover the rich cultural history of the former coffee plantation located on the Suriname River. At Peperpot Nature Park, you can tour the restored plantation house, hike through the lush vegetation, and see the old coffee factory.

  • Day 6: Bigi Pan
    3 hours 30 minutes (131 miles) from Peperpot Nature Park

    Take a day trip to Bigi Pan, a stunning nature reserve filled with a variety of birds, including pink flamingos. Explore the mangroves on a boat tour, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake.

  • Day 7: Galibi Nature Reserve
    1 hour 30 minutes (57 miles) from Bigi Pan

    Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the Marowijne River, Galibi Nature Reserve is home to nesting sea turtles, which can be seen from February to August. Take a tour of the reserve, visit the indigenous villages, and witness the traditional craftmanship that's on display.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Brownsberg Nature Park (2 days, SRD 400)
  • Blaka Watra (1 day, SRD 50)
  • Paramaribo Zoo (1 day, SRD 160)
  • Fort Zeelandia (1/2 day, SRD 10)
  • Peperpot Nature Park (1 day, SRD 50)
  • Bigi Pan (1 day, SRD 200)
  • Galibi Nature Reserve (1 day, SRD 300)
  • Total Estimated Costs: SRD 1170

Transportation

Travelers should be aware that the roads in Suriname are in varying conditions, and many parts of the country are only accessible by 4x4. It's also advisable to book transportation in advance to ensure availability. The estimated total cost for transportation is SRD 2000, and the estimated travel time is approximately 15 hours.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other attractions such as the Jodensavanne, a historic Jewish settlement, or the Tafelberg Nature Reserve for more hiking opportunities. If you have less time, prioritize Brownsberg and Blaka Watra for a nature-focused experience, or Fort Zeelandia and the Paramaribo Zoo for a cultural experience in the capital city.

Airports

Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM), also known as Paramaribo International Airport, is Suriname's main airport and is located approximately 25 miles south of Paramaribo.

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