Things To Do
in Brokopondo
Brokopondo sits inland, atop Suriname's rainforest corridor formed around a massive hydroelectric reservoir. The town anchors river villages and forested hinterlands where waterways replace roads for transport and daily life revolves around the water. The area blends Maroon, Indigenous, and Creole influences with a frontier spirit and striking sunsets over the reservoir.
Visitors come for pristine nature, wildlife encounters, and an insight into interior Suriname culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a visit to the expansive Brokopondo Reservoir, where the morning light dances on the water. Rent a canoe to navigate through the lush greenery, observing the diverse bird species that call this area home. Make sure to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy on the shores while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Spend the afternoon exploring nearby nature trails that wind through the rainforest. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna, including monkeys and vibrant butterflies, as you hike. You can also visit a local community to learn about their culture and way of life, enhancing your understanding of this beautiful region.
As the sun sets, return to the reservoir for a stunning view of the twilight sky reflected on the water. Gather around a campfire with fellow travelers and share stories of your day while enjoying traditional Surinamese dishes. The peaceful sounds of nature will serenade you as night falls, creating a magical atmosphere.
Travel to Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, and start your morning with a visit to the Central Market. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and sounds of local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to try a local breakfast dish, like 'pom', a tasty baked casserole.
Spend the afternoon exploring the historic district, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with charming wooden architecture and colonial buildings. Visit the Independence Square and the Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, and take lots of photos in this picturesque area. Consider stopping for lunch at a lively café to taste local delicacies and enjoy the ambiance.
As the evening approaches, gather around a campfire to share stories and reflect on the day's adventures. Experience local cuisine cooked over an open flame while listening to cultural tales from the locals. The combination of great food, rhythmic music, and good company will round off your day perfectly.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Local transport (one-way ride) | $2-5 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $3-6 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning interior landscapes and wildlife
- Unique cultural interactions with Maroon and Indigenous communities
- Limited infrastructure and services in remote areas
- Long travel times to reach from Paramaribo
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Asjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand
- "Sori" - Sorry
- "Wat kost dit?" - What does this cost?
Places to Visit in Brokopondo
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the expansive reservoir and dam infrastructure at sunrise or sunset.
Broad horizons and reflections on calm mornings, with villages dotted along the far shore.
Forest canopies, waterfalls, and dramatic panoramas from hilltop lookouts; best during golden hour.
Food in Brokopondo
Brokopondo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty cassava-meat pie traditional to Suriname; look for it in local eateries near the reservoir.
Must-Try!
Fried plantains served with peanut sauce or groundnut sauce; a popular interior snack.
A mixed-meat dish often served with rice or cassava; available at larger guesthouses or village eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market where you can try fried fish, cassava chips, and fresh fruit.
Temporary stalls offering grilled fish, pastechi, and fresh juice along the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake with eye contact; greet elders first; use a polite Dutch greeting such as 'goede dag' or 'hallo'.
Ask before photographing people, especially in villages; dress modestly when visiting communities; show appreciation to local guides.
Safety
Tipping in Brokopondo
Ensure a smooth experience
10-15% tip at restaurants if service is good; in smaller eateries, rounding up is common. Guides and lodge staff often expect tips for tours.
Cash (Surinamese dollars or USD) is widely used in interior towns; some lodges accept cards, especially larger guesthouses; ATMs are scarce outside Paramaribo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically warmer with less rainfall; easier boat travel on the reservoir and comfortable hiking, though water levels may be lower.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; rivers swell and some trails can be muddy; mosquito protection is essential; interior camps operate with guided availability varying by season.
Brokopondo at Night
Hiking in Brokopondo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife; best done with a guide for safety.
Scenic walks along the Brokopondo Reservoir offering wildlife viewing and serene water views.
Airports
How to reach Brokopondo by plane.
Main international gateway to Suriname; roughly a 2.5–4 hour drive to Brokopondo depending on road conditions.
Seasonal or charter airstrips used to access interior camps and villages; travel typically arranged through lodges or tour operators.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Afro-Surinamese groups living along rivers with distinctive crafts, music, and social structures.
Lokono (Arawak) and Wayana communities with traditional practices and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local matches and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Popular in schools and community centers; often played in the evenings.
A common pastime in the reservoir and rivers; guides can teach techniques.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brokopondo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on plant-based staples like cassava, beans, yams, and vegetable stews; ask for dishes without meat or fish; many kitchens can provide vegetarian options if asked politely.