We went to Suriname for two weeks with our family, including two daughters aged 13 and 16, and enjoyed the special atmosphere, the hospitality, the lovely people, and the beautiful mix of culture and nature.
Planning our trip with Suriname Holidays went smoothly. We were in contact with Suzette by phone and then arranged everything via email. Suzette planned a wonderful trip for us, took our wishes into account well, and also gave good advice on what is sensible to do or not do in a two-week period.
The time of year was very suitable for visiting Suriname, towards the end of the main rainy season. It rained mainly at night and sometimes in the afternoon, but overall we had fine weather. It was warm, of course, but we were told it is often even warmer during the dry season.
On-site, local organizations were used for transport (always perfectly on time with friendly drivers), and Dronica for guides and travel information regarding accommodations and tours. Communication was via WhatsApp and was easy and quick.
Our trip started with 3 nights in Paramaribo, staying at Torarica Eco Resort. Excellent rooms and a delicious breakfast. Located in the center of Paramaribo next to the Torarica Hotel , whose swimming pool and gym you can use. The city walk guided by Gilliano was well worth it.
Afterwards, we traveled by taxi and boat to Hotel Frederiksdorp in the Commewijne district for two nights. The old plantation and police station look very beautiful, but the accommodation was a bit overdue for maintenance. Furthermore, the swimming pool was green, so we didn't really use it. However, the staff was very friendly and helpful. The restaurant is fine.
The day tour to the Bakkie Plantation Museum was very impressive and absolutely worthwhile. What Bas and Masha created there is truly special. The museum contains items that would not look out of place in the Rijksmuseum in terms of relevance, rarity, and cultural value. We also had a roti cooking class with Mrs. Depay, which was great fun. We also went on a dolphin tour, which was very worthwhile.
After that, we spent two nights at Hotel Peperpot . We found it slightly less atmospheric. Peperpot is also a former plantation, but it is expanding rapidly, which comes at the expense of the atmosphere and personal touch. However, the accommodation is very well maintained. The restaurant is fine, with many Javanese recipes and tasty pizzas. It is on the pricey, though. The adjacent nature park is well worth a visit, with or without a guide. We went without a guide.
Next, we headed inland to Knini Paati for 3 nights. We traveled by dugout canoe from Atjoni, which was quite an adventure. Knini Paati is very luxurious for an inland resort, and we were very well taken care of with an extensive buffet and something different to eat every day. The program is a beautiful mix of culture and nature, and there is plenty of room for relaxation. This was absolutely the highlight of our trip.
Next, we spent two nights in the indigenous village of Redi Doti near Jodensavanne, where Angela and her brother Lionel have a small and simple accommodation. This was well worth it, particularly due to the very personal and hospitable welcome and care provided by Angela and her brother. Jodensavanne is a special place to visit. We would have liked to hear more about the history of the indigenous peoples. The cultural dance we were given felt somewhat uncomfortable.
Finally, we stayed two nights at Palulu Paradise . A friendly welcome from Donovan and Timothy, and very unique nature with a cola-colored creek. We had a very nice evening tour with friendly and knowledgeable guide Kenzo. Unfortunately, it was also horsefly season, which really negatively affected sitting by the creek. The accommodation itself was neat and new, but a bit on the small side and with stuffy air. Because we had an early flight, it was convenient that we were already so close to the airport. Donovan took us to the airport very early in the morning, which was very helpful. However, we did find two nights a bit much for this place.
We would have loved to see Paramaribo again. In addition, there are definitely several other places in Suriname that we haven't seen yet. A good reason to return to Suriname someday. We would highly recommend doing so with Suriname Holidays!
