This eight-day journey focuses entirely on Suriname, moving between the capital's colonial architecture, Maroon river communities, coastal wetlands and historic settlement sites. The itinerary is designed for travelers interested in cultural depth and natural diversity within a single country, without the complexity of border crossings or multi-country logistics.
You'll spend time in Paramaribo's UNESCO-listed wooden city center, travel by pirogue to a riverside jungle lodge along the Upper Suriname River, explore Bigi Pan's mangrove wetlands by canoe with an overnight in an overwater lodge, and visit both the ruins of South America's oldest Jewish settlement and a contemporary Amerindian village. Accommodation is in comfortable 3-star hotels in Paramaribo (upgradeable to 4 or 5 star) with well-maintained lodges in remote locations.
Maroon cultural engagement, two days on the Upper Suriname River with village visits, traditional performances and overnight in a riverside lodge
Bigi Pan wetland exploration, overnight in an overwater lodge with access to one of South America's most important bird sanctuaries (120+ species recorded)
Joden Savannah historical context, guided visit to the 17th-century Jewish settlement ruins, including the Beracha ve Shalom synagogue site and burial grounds, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023
Suriname-only focus, depth over breadth, with no border crossings, currency changes or multi-country logistics
Small group structure, maximum 12 participants with English-speaking guides throughout
Seven nights' accommodation: five nights in 3-star hotels or best available in Paramaribo with private bathrooms, air conditioning and breakfast (4- and 5-star upgrades available where options exist); one night at riverside jungle lodge with full board; one night at overwater lodge in Bigi Pan with air conditioning, private bathroom, balcony, WiFi and full board
All ground and river transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, motorized pirogues and canoes
English-speaking guide throughout the program
All entrance fees, nature park fees and tour-specific charges
Meals as specified: breakfasts at hotels daily; full board (all meals) on Days 3 and 4 (Upper Suriname River) and Days 5 and 6 (Bigi Pan); lunch included on Day 7
International flights to and from Paramaribo
Visas and entry fees where required (guidance provided during booking)
Lunches and dinners not specified in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Personal expenses and gratuities
Travel The Guianas is a Destination Management Company and tour operator based in Paramaribo, Suriname. For over two decades we have been the on-the-ground operator for travelers seeking real access to Suriname, Guyana and French Guiana, the three Guianas. We work across three countries, three languages and three currencies, handling everything in-house, from multi-country guided journeys to single day excursions and cruise ship shore programs.
We reach places most operators cannot, fly-in rainforest lodges 240 kilometers from the nearest road, overnight stays in working Maroon communities and Kaieteur Falls by scenic flight. We are also the leading ground handler for expedition cruise lines calling at Suriname. Book a single day out or a full three country expedition, you deal directly with the people who run the operation.