Commewijne District, Suriname Travel Guide
Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty of Commewijne District in Suriname. From historical forts to lush nature parks, there's something for everyone.
Commewijne District in Suriname is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated on the northeastern coast of Suriname, this district is known for its charming villages, sprawling plantations, and scenic river views. The Commewijne River, which runs through the district, offers a host of activities such as boat tours and wildlife spotting. Visitors can often see dolphins playing in the waters, making for a delightful experience. Fort Nieuw Amsterdam is one of the key historical sites in Commewijne. This fort, built in the 18th century, provides a glimpse into the colonial past of Suriname. As you explore the well-preserved structures, you can almost hear the echoes of history. The fort also houses a museum that showcases artifacts and information about the colonial era. Another must-visit is the Peperpot Nature Park. This park is a haven for nature lovers. It features a variety of trails that take you through lush forests and past old plantation buildings. Bird watchers will be thrilled by the diverse avian species found here, including the striking scarlet ibis and the elusive kingfisher. The park is also home to monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife, making each visit a new adventure.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Commewijne District.
- Consider taking a boat tour on the Commewijne River for the chance to see dolphins and other wildlife up close.
- Visit Fort Nieuw Amsterdam early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes when exploring Peperpot Nature Park, as the trails can be uneven.
- Bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to visit any of the nature parks or take a boat tour.
- Try local dishes at roadside stalls and small restaurants for an authentic Surinamese culinary experience.
Top City Travel Guides in Commewijne District
The cities of Commewijne District, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Commewijne District
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Commewijne District: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Commewijne District
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Riviera Casino
Discover the thrill of gaming and vibrant nightlife at Riviera Casino, Paramaribo's premier entertainment destination for tourists.
Plantage Bakkie
Discover the enchanting Plantage Bakkie, a museum and botanical garden in Suriname, blending rich history with stunning natural beauty.
Best landmarks in Commewijne District
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Palmtree Garden
Discover the tranquility of Palmtree Garden, a lush urban oasis in Paramaribo, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and cultural encounters.
Fort Zeelandia
Discover the captivating history of Suriname at Fort Zeelandia, a well-preserved 17th-century fortress and museum in the heart of Paramaribo.
Paramaribo Zoo
Explore the unique wildlife of Suriname at Paramaribo Zoo, an engaging and educational tourist attraction in the heart of Paramaribo.
Paramaribo Central Market
Discover the essence of Surinamese culture at the Paramaribo Central Market, where vibrant stalls and local flavors await your exploration.
Best restaurants in Commewijne District
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Zus & Zo
Discover authentic Surinamese flavors at Zus & Zo in Paramaribo - where local ingredients meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Las Tías Suriname
Experience authentic Latin American cuisine at Las Tías Suriname – a culinary gem in Paramaribo serving vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.
Garden of Eden
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Garden of Eden in Paramaribo - a must-visit culinary gem offering exquisite flavors and exceptional service.
Mighty Racks
Discover the culinary delight at Mighty Racks in Paramaribo - where Surinamese grilling comes alive in a vibrant setting.
Best bars in Commewijne District
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Zus & Zo
Discover the vibrant flavors of Suriname at Zus & Zo, a must-visit restaurant in Paramaribo offering local and international cuisine.
Bar Zuid
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Paramaribo at Bar Zuid, where locals and tourists unite over delicious cocktails and lively entertainment.
Riverside
Discover Riverside, Paramaribo's premier grill destination, where delightful flavors meet stunning riverside views in a vibrant atmosphere.
D'Bar
Discover the vibrant nightlife at D'Bar in Paramaribo, where delicious drinks and live music create a perfect blend for an unforgettable evening.
Best nightclubs in Commewijne District
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Club Manilla Suriname
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Club Manilla, Paramaribo's premier dance club, where music, culture, and vibrant energy collide.
Bar Excellente Suriname
Discover the lively spirit of nightlife at Bar Excellente Suriname in Paramaribo, where local flavors and fun await every visitor.
Diamond Pool Terras / Diamond Nightclub
Discover the dynamic nightlife of Paramaribo at Diamond Pool Terras, where dancing and relaxation meet in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Euphoria
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Paramaribo at Euphoria, a premier night club where music, dance, and local culture come alive.
Best shops in Commewijne District
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Hermitage Mall
Discover Hermitage Mall, Paramaribo's vibrant shopping hub offering fashion, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
Kirpalani Super Store (KSS)
Discover the best of Paramaribo shopping at Kirpalani Super Store, your one-stop destination for unique finds and local treasures.
Readytex Art Gallery
Explore the heart of Suriname's creativity at Readytex Art Gallery, a vibrant hub for art, culture, and unique local souvenirs.
Kirpalani's N.V.
Experience the vibrant shopping culture of Paramaribo at Kirpalani's N.V., the ultimate department store for locals and tourists alike.
Explore Commewijne District on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Commewijne District, mapped for you.
Commewijne District Essentials
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Commewijne District is located in northern Suriname, just east of the capital city, Paramaribo. The nearest international airport is Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) in Zanderij, approximately 45 kilometers south of Paramaribo. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to Paramaribo, and from there, you can hire a taxi or use a rental car to reach Commewijne District. The drive from Paramaribo to Commewijne typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
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Once in Commewijne, getting around can be managed via taxis, rental cars, or bicycles. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from most populated areas. For a more flexible and independent exploration, renting a car is a great option; several rental agencies operate in Paramaribo. Bicycles are also popular, especially for short distances and exploring rural areas. Public boats (so-called 'water taxis') operate along the Commewijne River and are a scenic way to visit different parts of the district.
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The official currency in Suriname is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Commewijne, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Paramaribo before traveling to Commewijne to avoid any inconvenience.
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Commewijne District is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Be cautious with your belongings in busy places to avoid petty theft. High-crime areas targeting tourists are not prevalent, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
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In case of emergency, dial 115 for medical assistance or 112 for the police. The nearest hospital is in Paramaribo, so for major medical emergencies, it is advisable to head there. Commewijne has several clinics for minor health issues, and pharmacies are available in larger towns. Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or rural areas. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A friendly 'goedemorgen' (good morning) or 'goedemiddag' (good afternoon) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Commewijne District like a local, visit the traditional markets where you can purchase fresh produce and unique local goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don’t miss the historic plantations, such as Frederiksdorp and Peperpot, which offer a glimpse into the district’s colonial past. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the Commewijne River to spot dolphins and explore the diverse wildlife.
When is the best time to visit Commewijne District?
Useful Local Phrases for Commewijne District
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Commewijne District. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloOdi
[o-dee] - GoodbyeTeki srefi
[teh-kee sreh-fee] - YesFa
[fah] - NoNeng
[neng] - Please/You're welcomeA no wan
[ah noh wahn] - Thank youTanki
[tahn-kee] - Excuse me/SorrySori
[soh-ree] - How are you?Fa yu de?
[fah yoo deh] - Fine. And you?A de feni. En yu?
[ah deh feh-nee. en yoo?] - Do you speak English?Yu kan taki English?
[yoo kahn tah-kee English?] - I don't understandMi no sabi
[mee noh sah-bee]
- HelloOdi
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wani si di menu, a no wan
[mee wah-nee see dee meh-noo, ah noh wahn] - I don't eat meatMi no ete fesi
[mee noh eh-teh feh-see] - Cheers!Proost!
[prohst] - I would like to pay, pleaseMi wani pay, a no wan
[mee wah-nee pay, ah noh wahn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wani si di menu, a no wan
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- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Neki yu go!
[neh-kee yoo goh!] - Call the Police!Kaw di Polisi!
[kaw dee poh-lee-see!] - Call a doctor!Kaw wan dokto!
[kaw wahn doh-kto!] - I'm lostMi de lobi
[mee deh loh-bee] - I'm illMi de si
[mee deh see]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...Mi wani buy...
[mee wah-nee buy...] - I'm just lookingMi just de luk
[mee juhst deh look] - How much is it?Fa di kost?
[fah dee kohst?] - That's too expensiveDat de te dure
[daht deh teh doo-reh] - Can you lower the price?Yu kan broko di pris?
[yoo kahn broh-koh dee prees?]
- I'd like to buy...Mi wani buy...
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- What time is it?Fa tori de?
[fah toh-ree deh?] - It's one o'clockNa wan tori
[nah wahn toh-ree] - Half past (10)Fasi (10)
[fah-see (10)] - MorningMori
[moh-ree] - AfternoonNokti
[nok-tee] - EveningOdi
[oh-dee] - YesterdayYesterdai
[yes-ter-dye] - TodayTode
[toh-deh] - TomorrowMoro
[moh-roh] - 1Wan
[wahn] - 2Tu
[too] - 3Tri
[tree] - 4Fowru
[foh-roo] - 5Fifi
[fee-fee] - 6Seksi
[sek-see] - 7Sevi
[seh-vee] - 8Oti
[oh-tee] - 9Nain
[nine] - 10Teni
[teh-nee]
- What time is it?Fa tori de?
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- Where's a/the...?Wani a/di...?
[wah-nee ah/dee...?] - What's the address?Fa di adres?
[fah dee ah-dres?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Yu kan show mi (pan di map)?
[yoo kahn show mee (pahn dee mahp)?] - When's the next (bus)?Wen di naki (bus)?
[wen dee nah-kee (boos)?] - A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (na ...)
[wahn tee-ket (nah ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Wani a/di...?
History of Commewijne District
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Before European colonization, the area now known as Commewijne District was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Arawaks and Caribs. These communities lived off the land, practicing agriculture, fishing, and hunting.
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In the 17th century, the Dutch established control over Suriname, including the Commewijne District. They set up plantations along the fertile banks of the Commewijne River, growing crops such as sugar cane, coffee, and cocoa. Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam was constructed in 1747 to protect these valuable estates from foreign invaders and uprisings.
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The plantation economy in Commewijne thrived on the labor of enslaved Africans. Thousands were forcibly brought to the region to work under brutal conditions. The legacy of this period remains evident in the district's architecture and cultural landscape, with many plantation houses and structures still standing today.
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Slavery was abolished in Suriname in 1863. To cope with labor shortages on the plantations, the Dutch brought in indentured laborers from India, Java, and China. These communities have since become integral to the cultural mosaic of Commewijne, contributing to its diverse heritage.
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During World War II, Commewijne District and Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam played a strategic role. The fort was used by Allied forces to protect the bauxite mines in Suriname, which were crucial for aluminum production used in military aircraft.
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Suriname gained independence from the Netherlands in 1975. Since then, Commewijne District has seen various developmental projects aimed at boosting tourism and preserving its rich history. Restoration of historical sites and promotion of eco-tourism have become focal points for the local community.
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Commewijne District is known for its vibrant cultural festivals that reflect its diverse heritage. Events such as the Indian Holi festival, Javanese Eid celebrations, and Chinese New Year are celebrated with much enthusiasm, showcasing the district's multicultural identity.
Neighbouring Regions of Commewijne District
The closest regions to Commewijne District, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Suriname
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Explore SurinameCommewijne District in Photos
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Exploring the Hidden Gems of Commewijne District
Commewijne District in Suriname is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated on the northeastern coast of Suriname, this district is known for its charming villages, sprawling plantations, and scenic river views. The Commewijne River, which runs through the district, offers a host of activities such as boat tours and wildlife spotting. Visitors can often see dolphins playing in the waters, making for a delightful experience. Fort Nieuw Amsterdam is one of the key historical sites in Commewijne. This fort, built in the 18th century, provides a glimpse into the colonial past of Suriname. As you explore the well-preserved structures, you can almost hear the echoes of history. The fort also houses a museum that showcases artifacts and information about the colonial era. Another must-visit is the Peperpot Nature Park. This park is a haven for nature lovers. It features a variety of trails that take you through lush forests and past old plantation buildings. Bird watchers will be thrilled by the diverse avian species found here, including the striking scarlet ibis and the elusive kingfisher. The park is also home to monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife, making each visit a new adventure.