Things To Do
in Koewarasan
Koewarasan is a rural village located in the Sipaliwini District of Suriname. It is situated along the Suriname River in a lush, tropical setting with dense rainforest surrounding the area. The village is predominantly inhabited by indigenous peoples, such as the Trio and Wayana tribes, who maintain their traditional way of life and cultural practices.
Koewarasan offers visitors the opportunity to experience authentic indigenous culture, explore the stunning natural beauty of the Suriname rainforest, and interact with the friendly local community.
- "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): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hike through the lush rainforest surrounding Koewarasan. Be on the lookout for local wildlife and unique plant species.
Visit a nearby river to enjoy kayaking or swimming. The refreshing water and serene setting are perfect for relaxation.
End your day with a traditional Surinamese meal at a local restaurant. Enjoy the flavors while listening to live music.
Embark on a scenic drive to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the landscape. Take plenty of photos to capture the beauty.
Have a picnic lunch at a scenic lookout point. Relax and absorb the tranquility of nature.
Return to Koewarasan and stroll through the village. Engage with locals and learn about their culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity, with influences from Indigenous, African, Asian, and European communities.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including rainforests and rivers.
- Low population density which can lead to a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
- Wildlife and biodiversity, making it a great location for eco-tourism.
- Friendliness and hospitality of the local community.
- Limited infrastructure and services compared to more developed areas.
- Economic challenges and fewer employment opportunities.
- Accessibility issues due to remote location and inadequate transportation options.
- Potential exposure to tropical diseases in some regions.
- Water quality and sanitation can be inconsistent in certain areas.
Best Activities in Koewarasan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy breathtaking views and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Tafelberg mountain.
Observe a wide variety of bird species in the lush rainforest surroundings of Brownsberg Nature Park.
Take a scenic river cruise to admire the beautiful landscapes and spot wildlife along the Suriname River.
Immerse yourself in nature by camping in the pristine surroundings of the Central Suriname Nature Reserve.
Tours
Uncover the best of Koewarasan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Koewarasan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the rainforest and Brokopondo Reservoir, and plenty of photo opportunities of the diverse wildlife and lush landscapes.
Provides breathtaking views of waterfalls, savannahs, and tropical forests, along with opportunities to capture the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Features unparalleled views of untouched rainforests, rivers, and mountains, and offers numerous chances to photograph the pristine and diverse natural environment.
Food in Koewarasan
Koewarasan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful casserole made with root vegetables, chicken, and citrus juice. It's traditionally baked in banana leaves, lending it a unique taste.
Must-Try!
Influenced by Indian cuisine, this dish consists of a soft flatbread served with curried vegetables, chicken, or goat. It's a staple offering in many Surinamese households.
A Javanese-inspired chicken soup with bean sprouts, vermicelli, and fried onions. It can be customized with various condiments like sambal, kecap, and lime juice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Koewarasan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove for street food aficionados. It offers an array of local snacks, like bara (savory fried dough), pastei (savory pastries), and bakabana (fried plantains).
The vibrant street food stalls along the Waterkant offer a wide selection of Surinamese street food, including grilled chicken, bami (stir-fried noodles), and pastei (patties). It's an excellent spot to immerse in the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Koewarasan, it's important to show respect for elders by using proper titles and greeting them politely.
It is customary to greet others with a handshake or a nod, and maintaining eye contact is considered a sign of respect.
Using formal language and addressing people with proper titles is considered respectful in Koewarasan culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Koewarasan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Koewarasan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Koewarasan, Suriname, tipping is not considered customary or obligatory in most situations. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, a small tip may be appreciated.
Payment in Koewarasan, Suriname is primarily done in cash, and credit cards may not be widely accepted, especially in rural areas. It's a good idea to have local currency on hand. Some businesses and accommodations may also accept payments through mobile apps or bank transfers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Koewarasan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Koewarasan, Suriname is during the dry season, especially from February to August. During this time, you can expect clear skies, lower chances of rainfall, and more opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
During the rainy season from September to January, expect higher rainfall and more humid conditions. While the lush greenery and waterfalls can be spectacular during this time, outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet conditions. It's recommended to plan indoor or water-based activities if visiting during the rainy season.
Koewarasan at Night
Hiking in Koewarasan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve known for its scenic hiking trails through diverse rainforest ecosystems.
This trail offers a moderate hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
A popular hiking destination featuring a challenging climb that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
This expansive reserve provides multiple hiking routes along rivers and through lush forest with rich biodiversity.
Known for its rugged terrain and stunning waterfalls, this reserve offers adventurous trails that lead to breathtaking sights.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Koewarasan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Koewarasan by plane.
The main international airport serving Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, located approximately 45 kilometers from Koewarasan.
Also known as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, it is the largest airport in Suriname and handles most international flights.
Located in French Guiana, it is one of the closest international airports, about 147 kilometers from Koewarasan.
Located in Guyana, approximately 200 kilometers from Koewarasan, this airport serves as an international gateway to the region.
Located in Aruba, it is further away but serves as an international hub for flights in the Caribbean region, approximately 780 kilometers away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The original inhabitants of the region, comprising various ethnic groups with distinct languages and cultures.
A demographic group with mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, often identified in the Suriname population.
People of African ancestry, primarily descendants of enslaved individuals brought to Suriname during the colonial period.
Includes people of Indian, Chinese, and Javanese descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Individuals with European ancestry, including Dutch and other European groups, involved in various sectors of the economy.
The Soul of Koewarasan
Discover the essence of Koewarasan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Koewarasan and Suriname as a whole, with many local clubs and community events.
Cricket has a strong following in Koewarasan, with local teams competing in regional tournaments.
Basketball is widely played among the youth, with informal games in neighborhoods and organized leagues.
Volleyball is a common sport in Koewarasan, played both recreationally and competitively.
Athletics, including running and track events, are popular, with various competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koewarasan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Surinamese cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Koewarasan now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, like tofu-based dishes, hearty vegetable stews, and plantain-based offerings.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can savor dishes like rijsttafel (rice table), a Dutch-influenced meal with various rice and protein options, and cassava-based snacks available in local markets and some restaurants.