Things To Do
in Groningen
Groningen is a historic town located in the Saramacca District of Suriname. It was established in the 19th century by Dutch immigrants and has a rich cultural and architectural heritage. The town is known for its picturesque waterfront area along the Saramacca River and the traditional wooden houses that line its streets.
Groningen offers a glimpse into Suriname's colonial past and is a charming destination for visitors looking to explore the country's interior.
- "Odi sranan" - Hello
- "Fa waka" - How are you?
- "Danjanga" - Thank you
- "Suma ete" - Goodbye
- "Mi no sabi" - I don't know
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Groningen Museum, which showcases contemporary art and design. Enjoy the unique architecture and grab a coffee at the museum café.
Explore the vibrant markets in the city center to try local foods and shop for souvenirs. Don't miss the stunning Martinitoren, where you can climb to get a panoramic view of the city.
Dine at a local restaurant to taste traditional Surinamese dishes. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the water to soak in the sunset.
Join a cooking class to learn how to make Surinamese specialties like roti or pom. Enjoy the fresh ingredients available in local markets.
Savor your culinary creations for lunch and then take a food tour to experience the best street food in Groningen. Try local favorites and discover hidden food gems.
Visit a popular restaurant for a fine dining experience. End the night by enjoying a local drink at a nearby bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a mix of indigenous and colonial influences.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including rivers and forests.
- Warm tropical climate, ideal for those who enjoy hot weather.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Opportunities for ecotourism and exploration of biodiversity.
- Limited infrastructure and public services compared to larger cities.
- Economic challenges, including lower average income levels.
- Vulnerability to climate change impacts, such as flooding.
- Limited access to higher education and specialized healthcare facilities.
- Possible language barrier for non-Dutch speakers in everyday communication.
Best Activities in Groningen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers vast rainforests to explore, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural scenery. Hiking and guided tours are available to discover its rich biodiversity.
The Suriname River is a prime location for birdwatching, where visitors can observe various species of birds in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars and enjoy a peaceful day by the river.
Rent a kayak and paddle through the calm waters of the Commewijne River. Experience the beauty of mangroves, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
This nature park features hiking trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. It’s a great spot for outdoor adventurers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Explore the historical Fort Zeelandia, where you can learn about Suriname's colonial past while enjoying the outdoors. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the river.
Galibi is known for its beautiful beaches and fishing opportunities. Spend a day relaxing by the sea or try your hand at fishing, enjoying the fresh ocean breeze.
Take a guided outdoor tour around Paramaribo to learn about local culture, visit historical sites, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the capital city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Groningen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Groningen
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic structure offering stunning architectural views and a great backdrop for photographs.
A historical fort with panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Suriname River, ideal for capturing sunset photos.
The waterfront area with colorful colonial buildings and vibrant street life, perfect for lively photos and scenic views.
A bustling market that provides a unique cultural experience and colorful visuals, making it great for street photography.
Offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding nature, perfect for nature and wildlife photography.
Food in Groningen
Groningen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Surinamese oven-baked dish made with chicken or salted cod, root vegetables, and citrus flavors. It's a must-try for visitors looking to savor the local flavors. You can find this at local eateries and street-side food vendors.
Must-Try!
A Javanese-inspired dish combining rice, chicken, salted fish, and vegetables, infused with aromatic spices. Most local restaurants and warungs offer their own unique take on this flavorful mixed rice dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Groningen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Exploring the sprawling Central Market is a must for immersing in Groningen's vibrant food scene. Here, you'll find an array of street food stalls offering local delights like Teloh, a fried cassava snack, and pastei, a savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables.
Located along the picturesque waterfront, this bustling food market is a fantastic spot to sample a variety of street foods, from spicy grilled chicken skewers to hearty soups and seafood dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Groningen, it is customary to greet people warmly. A handshake is standard when meeting someone for the first time. Addressing people with respect, using titles such as 'Mister' or 'Miss' along with their surname, is appreciated.
Being on time is important in Groningen. Arriving late to appointments or social gatherings can be seen as disrespectful. Try to arrive a few minutes early to show that you value the other person's time.
When invited to someone's home in Groningen, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets, as a sign of appreciation. Additionally, it is polite to thank your host for their hospitality verbally and when leaving.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Groningen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Groningen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Suriname, particularly in urban areas like Groningen, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip service workers such as waitstaff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, typically around 10% of the bill. However, the exact amount can vary based on the quality of service and individual preferences.
Payment methods in Groningen often include cash in Surinamese dollars as well as electronic payment options such as credit and debit cards. Many establishments, particularly in tourist areas, accept cards. Mobile payments are also becoming more popular, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in less urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Groningen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Groningen, Suriname. The weather is relatively dry, with less humidity and rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration of the natural scenery.
During the wet season, visitors can expect frequent rainfall and higher humidity levels. While travel may be more challenging due to weather conditions, the landscape is lush and vibrant, and it’s a great time for birdwatching and experiencing the rich biodiversity of the region.
Groningen generally experiences warm temperatures year-round. Expect temperatures to range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The warm climate adds to the overall experience but be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the wet season.
Groningen at Night
Hiking in Groningen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area featuring various trails that lead through lush rainforest and alongside rivers, perfect for those looking to hike in a natural setting with rich biodiversity.
A scenic trail located near Groningen that offers stunning views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
While primarily a bridge, walking across offers a unique perspective of the water and the surrounding landscape, blending hiking with urban exploration.
A region that provides excellent hiking opportunities with trails that navigate through untouched nature and varied landscapes.
Hiking paths that follow the banks of the Albina River, providing a mixture of nature walks and river views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Groningen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Groningen by plane.
The largest international airport in Suriname, located about 45 km from the capital city Paramaribo.
Located in French Guiana, this airport serves as a major international gateway and is approximately 220 km from Groningen.
Another name for Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, serving international flights to and from Suriname.
Located in Brazil, this airport is roughly 300 km from Groningen and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Descendants of African slaves and European colonizers, forming a significant part of the population with a rich cultural heritage.
Including groups such as the Arawak and Carib, they are the original inhabitants of Suriname, contributing to the country's cultural diversity.
Descendants of Indian indentured laborers brought to Suriname during the colonial period, forming a substantial and influential community.
Descendants of Javanese immigrants who arrived in Suriname as indentured laborers, they have maintained their cultural identity.
A smaller but notable community with significant contributions to commerce and culture in Suriname.
Including smaller communities of Lebanese, Jewish, and other immigrant groups who have settled in Suriname.
The Soul of Groningen
Discover the essence of Groningen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Groningen and throughout Suriname, attracting many local players and fans.
Volleyball is widely played and enjoyed by both men and women, with local clubs and tournaments fostering community participation.
Cricket is also popular in Suriname, with a strong following and organized matches among local communities.
Basketball has been gaining popularity among the youth in Groningen, with local courts available for play.
Athletics events, including running and jumping competitions, are organized in schools and communities, promoting physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Groningen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Surinamese cuisine prominently features meat and fish, many eateries are increasingly catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences, offering inventive plant-based dishes and meat substitutes such as tofu and tempeh.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives at select restaurants, particularly those with international cuisine offerings. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements to the staff when dining out.