Melting pot of cultures
Before the arrival of Columbus, people were already living in Suriname. Then the English, Dutch, and Portuguese managed to find their way there. African slaves were brought along to work on the plantations. Later, workers from the former British and Dutch East Indies as well as Chinese came here to build their lives. An enormous diversity of cultures, unique to South America. Suriname is fascinating, surprising and colourful.
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Symbol for the different cultures
In Paramaribo in front of the president's cabinet, is the statue 'Mama Sranan', the symbolic primeval mother of Suriname with her five children. The five children represent the five largest ethnicities that populate and colour the country.
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Spending the night on a plantation
The district of Commewijne is close to Paramaribo and is the region where most important plantations were established, in the time when Suriname was a colony of the Netherlands. A number of these plantations have been restored to their former glory and you can visit them during a day trip, but on some of them you can also spend the night, such as at Fredriksdorp.
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Guided tour by Mr. Soekardi
Another plantation is the famous Mariënburg sugar plantation. During Johan's visit, he was given a guided tour by Mr. Soekardi who worked here until 1984. This tour gave an interesting insight into past times.
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A piece of Africa on the Upper Suriname River
A visit to the Upper Suriname River is a must if you want to get acquainted with the Marron culture. The Marrons are descendants of the Creole slaves, who in the time of slavery managed to flee the plantations and found shelter in the dense rainforest of Suriname. In the villages you can still find many traditions and customs that have their origin in West Africa.
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Choose to stay at Danpaati Lodge
Danpaati River Lodge is a small and atmospheric lodge, situated on a small island in the Upper Suriname River. Unique to the Danpaati River Lodge is that it is fully run by the people of the Marron community. A wonderful place, where the proceeds are entirely for the benefit of the local community.
Travel through Suriname?
Would you like to make a trip through Suriname yourself and are you curious about the possibilities? Then take a look at the travel itineraries that we have put together for inspiration. You can book these trips directly, but we are also happy to create a personal programme based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an e-mail to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We are happy to help.