Things To Do
in Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam is a historic riverside town in Suriname's Commewijne District. Founded during the colonial era, the town blends Dutch architecture with multicultural influences. Waterfront streets, open-air markets, and plantation ruins frame easy, stroll-friendly days.
As a gateway to river safaris and plantation tours, it offers an intimate glimpse of Suriname's rural life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Nieuw Amsterdam and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming town. After checking into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic river promenade, where you can admire the picturesque views of the Suriname River. Don’t forget to visit the local market to sample fresh fruits and traditional snacks.
Visit the nearby historic Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, a key site during the colonial era. Explore its ruins and learn about Suriname's rich history through engaging exhibits. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local eatery where you can savor authentic Surinamese dishes.
As the sun sets, take part in a cultural dance show at a local venue showcasing traditional Surinamese music. Revel in the rhythmic beats while trying your hand at some local dance moves. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner overlooking the river.
Start your day early with a guided canoe tour of the surrounding wetlands, where you can spot exotic birds and other wildlife. Your guide will share insights about the ecology of the area and its significance to the local community. Enjoy the serenity of nature while paddling through tranquil waters.
Return for a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, then embark on a hike in the nearby nature reserve. Immerse yourself in lush greenery and listen for the sounds of wildlife as you explore diverse ecosystems. Capture beautiful photographs of unique flora and fauna along the trails.
After a busy day outdoors, unwind with a relaxing dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Enjoy the tranquil sounds of water lapping against the shore as you dine on grilled fish and seafood sourced from local waters. Wind down with a nightcap and perhaps some conversation with locals about their way of life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night hotel (budget to mid-range) | $40-100 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance within town) | $4-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Paramaribo and river-based sights
- Low-key, authentic Surinamese experience
- Limited nightlife and dining options in town
- Travel outside the city requires river or road transport
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / You're welcome
- "Waar is de markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Nieuw Amsterdam
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress ruin with river views and colonial architecture; especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
Long exposure opportunities and reflections of boats, with silhouettes of palm-lined banks.
Photogenic remnants with river vistas and swaying vegetation, offering a sense of Suriname’s plantation history.
Food in Nieuw Amsterdam
Nieuw Amsterdam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A filling Indian-influenced flatbread served with curried chickpeas and potatoes; widely available at roti shops around town.
Must-Try!
A traditional Surinamese dish made from grated cassava cooked with meat and vegetables, often served with pepper sauce.
Suriname’s beloved mixed-meat barbecue, typically grilled and served with rice or fried plantains.
Crispy fried plantain slices, a common accompaniment or snack found at many eateries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A riverside market area with stalls offering fresh fish, cassava bread, fruits, and quick bites like fried snacks and roti.
Farmers’ market along the riverbank where you can sample fresh fruit juices, cassava-based foods, and locally grown produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; Dutch is widely used, and Sranan Tongo is common in daily conversation. Dress modestly in markets and religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate settings. Respect private property around plantations and homes.
Safety
Tipping in Nieuw Amsterdam
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not already included. Guides and drivers commonly receive small tips for good service.
Most places in town accept cash in USD or Surinamese dollars (SRD); credit cards are more commonly accepted in Paramaribo and larger establishments. ATMs are available in Paramaribo; carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally hotter and less rainy; excellent for outdoor walks and riverfront photography, though humidity remains high. Expect clearer skies and more predictable beach or water activity windows.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; plan for afternoon rain, lush greenery, and dramatic skies. River levels may rise, affecting boat schedules.
Intermittent showers with sporadic sun; best to carry light rain gear and stay flexible with outdoor plans.
Nieuw Amsterdam at Night
Hiking in Nieuw Amsterdam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, shaded walks with river views and a sense of Suriname's plantation era.
Easy trails around the fort and river promenade with photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Nieuw Amsterdam by plane.
Main international gateway to Suriname; about 60-90 minutes by road from Nieuw Amsterdam.
Domestic and regional connections; convenient for guests heading directly to Paramaribo before traveling to the Commewijne area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suriname's diverse population includes Hindustani (East Indian), Creole, Maroon, Javanese, Indigenous, Chinese, and Dutch-descended communities. Dutch is the official language; Sranan Tongo and other languages are widely spoken in daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Suriname; local clubs and informal matches are common in towns and schools.
Played in communities with Caribbean influence; local clubs and school leagues encourage participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nieuw Amsterdam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many roti and plantain dishes can be prepared vegetarian. Look for dal-based curries and vegetable sides; ask for no meat broths and confirm sauces are meat-free when ordering.