Brokopondo: Suriname's Hidden Gem of Nature and Adventure

• HelloHallo
  [ha-loh]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeMi begi
  [mee bay-gee]
• Thank youMasha danki
  [mah-sha dahn-kee]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Fa yu de?
  [fah yoo deh?]
• Fine. And you?Boni. En yu?
  [boh-nee. en yoo?]
• Do you speak English?Yu taki Ingles?
  [yoo tah-kee een-glehs?]
• I don't understandMi no sabi
  [mee noh sah-bee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wani si a menu, mi begi
  [mee wah-nee see ah meh-noo, mee bay-gee]
• I don't eat meatMi no eeti meti
  [mee noh ay-tee meh-tee]
• Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wani pai, mi begi
  [mee wah-nee pah-ee, mee bay-gee]

• Help!Ruku mi!
  [roo-koo mee!]
• Go away!Go na fesi!
  [goh nah fay-see!]
• Call the Police!Bel Polisi!
  [bell poh-lee-see!]
• Call a doctor!Bel wan dokter!
  [bell wahn dock-ter!]
• I'm lostMi de kwi kwijt
  [mee deh kwee kwate]
• I'm illMi de sik
  [mee deh seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wani bai...
  [mee wah-nee bye...]
• I'm just lookingMi de kibri
  [mee deh kee-bree]
• How much is it?Fa prisiri?
  [fah pree-see-ree?]
• That's too expensiveDati de te duur
  [da-tee deh teh door]
• Can you lower the price?Yu kan meki a prisiri ondro?
  [yoo kahn meh-kee ah pree-see-ree on-droh?]

• What time is it?Fa ten de?
  [fah ten deh?]
• It's one o'clockNa wan taki
  [nah wahn tah-kee]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [hahf ten]
• MorningMownin
  [moh-win]
• AfternoonNeti
  [neh-tee]
• EveningAnu
  [ah-noo]
• YesterdayFeri
  [fay-ree]
• TodayDen de
  [dehn deh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-ghen]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Dri
  [dree]
• 4Fowru
  [foh-ru]
• 5Fife
  [fai-feh]
• 6Siksi
  [seek-see]
• 7Sebi
  [seh-bee]
• 8Aiti
  [eye-tee]
• 9Nown
  [nohn]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Fa a/the...de?
  [fah ah/the...deh?]
• What's the address?Fa a adres?
  [fah ah ah-dres?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu kan sori mi (na a mapu)?
  [yoo kahn soh-ree mee (nah ah mah-poo)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Fa a neti (bus) de?
  [fah ah neh-tee (bus) deh?]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiketi (te ....)
  [wahn tee-keh-tee (teh ....)]

Long before European colonization, the area now known as Brokopondo was inhabited by indigenous tribes, notably the Arawak and Carib peoples. These communities lived off the rich resources of the rainforest, practicing hunting, fishing, and small-scale agriculture. They developed complex societies with unique cultural traditions that still influence the region today.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Dutch colonizers began to explore the interior of Suriname, including Brokopondo. The area was initially used for small-scale plantations and resource extraction. However, the dense jungle and difficult terrain made large-scale colonization challenging. The Dutch often relied on enslaved Africans and indigenous peoples for labor, which led to significant cultural and demographic shifts.

The harsh conditions of slavery led to the rise of Maroon communities, composed of escaped enslaved Africans. These communities, including the Saramaka and Ndyuka, settled in remote areas like Brokopondo. They developed autonomous societies, maintaining African traditions and engaging in frequent resistance against colonial forces. The Maroon culture remains a vital part of Brokopondo’s heritage.

In the 1960s, the construction of the Afobaka Dam dramatically transformed Brokopondo. Built to provide hydroelectric power for aluminum production, the dam created the Brokopondo Reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. This development led to the displacement of many local communities, significantly altering the social and environmental landscape. The dam remains a crucial part of Suriname's energy infrastructure.

The establishment of the town of Brokopondo was closely linked to the Afobaka Dam project. Initially developed to house workers, the town grew into a regional hub. Today, Brokopondo serves as an administrative center and gateway for tourists exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest and lake. The town reflects a blend of modern amenities and traditional lifestyles, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s evolving identity.

In recent decades, Brokopondo has emerged as a popular destination for eco-tourists. The region offers a wealth of natural attractions, including the Brokopondo Reservoir, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism have led to the development of eco-lodges and guided tours, aimed at preserving the environment while providing economic opportunities for local communities. This focus on ecotourism highlights Brokopondo’s commitment to balancing development with conservation.

Brokopondo is located in the Brokopondo District of Suriname. The nearest international airport is Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Zanderij, approximately 90 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Brokopondo, which typically takes around 2 hours by road. Public buses and minibuses (locally known as 'bush taxis') also operate regular routes from Paramaribo to Brokopondo.

Within Brokopondo, the primary mode of transportation is by road. Taxis are available but may not be as frequent as in larger cities. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the area at your own pace. For shorter distances, consider hiring a bicycle or simply walking, especially if you are staying near the lake or in the town center. Bush taxis are also an affordable way to navigate between neighboring villages.

The official currency in Suriname is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops, local markets, or rural areas. ATMs are available in Brokopondo, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Paramaribo before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Brokopondo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Brokopondo does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 115 for medical emergencies or 110 for police assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Brokopondo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before photographing religious ceremonies or sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. A polite greeting in Dutch or Sranan Tongo is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Brokopondo like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Surinamese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss a visit to the Brokopondo Reservoir and the Afobaka Dam, which offer stunning views and opportunities for boating and fishing. For a unique experience, consider staying in a local guesthouse or eco-lodge, which provides an authentic taste of life in Brokopondo.