Activities in Suriname

Watersports
Beaches are not of the highest standard and only a few are suitable for swimming (which is prohibited at some classified beaches within nature reserves). An unusual but popular location for swimming is Colakreek, a recreation area 50km (32 miles) south of Paramaribo consisting of numerous creeks with brown water in the small savannah belt behind the coastal plains. There are public pools in Paramaribo, Niew-Nickerie, Moengo and Groningen and most hotels have private pools. There are facilities for sailing at Jachthaven Ornamibo.

Ecotourism

Nearly 80 per cent of the country is covered with tropical rainforest, which is protected by an efficient system of national parks and protected areas. Guided trips to Raleighvallen/Voltzberg Nature Park or Natuurpark Brownsberg (Brownsberg Nature Park) can be booked in Paramaribo. Some offer accommodation in lodges. Visits to indigenous village communities can also be organized and frequently involve river tours.

One of the most popular is the five-day river tour of Kumalu and the Awarra Dam region. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe numerous mammals (including jaguars, pumas and ocelots), birds (such as flamingos and eagles), rare flowers (including orchids and ixora) as well as the black and blue morpho butterflies. Giant Leatherback sea turtles can be watched laying their eggs in the Galibi Nature Reserve (accessible by boat only). Bikes can be hired.