Things To Do
in Nieuw Nickerie
Nieuw Nickerie is a laid-back river town in western Suriname, perched on the banks of the Nickerie River. It serves as the administrative heart of the Nickerie district and a hub for local rice farming and trade. The town blends Afro-Surinamese, Indian, Maroon, and Dutch influences, evident in its markets, eateries, and colorful houses.
With riverfront sunsets and easy access to nearby villages, Nieuw Nickerie makes a welcoming base for exploring western Suriname.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Nieuw Nickerie, you will be greeted by the warm hospitality of the locals. Take some time to settle into your accommodation and get acclimated to the hot, tropical climate. A leisurely stroll through the town allows you to familiarize yourself with the laid-back atmosphere and vibrant street life.
After lunch, venture out to explore the nearby nature reserves that are teeming with biodiversity. Join a guided tour to discover the rich flora and fauna of the region, and keep an eye out for the unique wildlife that calls Suriname home. The blend of lush greenery and vivid wildlife offers a truly immersive experience in nature.
As the sun sets, find a cozy local eatery to taste authentic Surinamese dishes. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance while chatting with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories about your day. The evening wraps up with a walk by the riverbank, where the enchanting sounds of nature create a perfect backdrop.
Start your day with a visit to local markets where the colors and sounds of fresh produce fill the air. Engage with local vendors, sampling exotic fruits and snacks while soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere. The interactions provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the residents and their cultural practices.
Afterward, take a guided tour of the cultural heritage sites in the area, including traditional houses and historical landmarks. Learn about the diverse cultures that make up Nieuw Nickerie, including their traditions and customs. The stories shared by your guide enrich your understanding of Suriname's unique identity.
For dinner, indulge in a traditional Surinamese meal at a popular local restaurant. Savor dishes like pom and roti accompanied by a refreshing drink made from native fruits. Engage in conversations about the day's discoveries while enjoying the lively atmosphere around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚍One-way local transport | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (budget) | $40-80 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with riverfront charm
- Affordability and easy access to rural landscapes
- Rich cultural blend reflected in food and markets
- Compact town with walkable streets and short travel times
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Basic medical facilities outside Paramaribo
- Hot and humid conditions year-round
- Roads and infrastructure can be variable
- "Dankjewel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Tanki" - Thanks
Places to Visit in Nieuw Nickerie
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, open skies and golden reflections on the river make for dramatic silhouettes of boats and passing fishermen.
Colorful stalls, vibrant textiles, and dynamic human activity provide plenty of candid and street photography opportunities.
Historic wooden houses along the river with peeling paint and verandas offer a glimpse into local life and architecture.
Capture the crossing moment, fishermen at work, and the shifting light over the water at the river’s edge.
Food in Nieuw Nickerie
Nieuw Nickerie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting taro root dish slow-cooked with meat, onions, and a savory sauce, usually served with a side of cucumber salad.
Must-Try!
Indian-influenced flatbread stuffed with curried vegetables or chicken, often enjoyed with chutney and lime.
Stir-fried noodles or steamed rice with vegetables and meat, a staple at many local eateries.
Surinamese mixed meat with rice, a flavorful one-pot dish that reflects Creole and Indonesian influences.
Fried plantain slices, a popular snack or side dish to accompany main meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively morning market where locals buy fresh fruit, fish, cassava products, and snacks; great for observing daily life and sampling street foods.
Cross-river market offering produce from surrounding villages; a good spot to try seasonal fruits and homemade treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; speak respectfully to elders and comfortably bilingual locals may switch between Dutch and local creoles.
Light, modest clothing is appropriate in town and markets; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Ask permission when photographing people in intimate settings; casual street scenes are usually fine, but always respect privacy.
Small tips for service staff are appreciated but not obligatory; when in doubt, follow local cues.
Safety
Tipping in Nieuw Nickerie
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated if service is not automatically included. Small tips for bar staff or taxi drivers are common practice.
Cash in SRD is widely used. Some shops and hotels accept USD or credit/debit cards, especially larger establishments. ATMs are available in town; card acceptance varies.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunnier and more predictable for outdoor activities. Comfortable for riverfront strolls and market photography, but stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Expect frequent short downpours and higher humidity. Rivers may swell and trails can be muddy; this is a lush, photogenic time with greener landscapes.
Nieuw Nickerie at Night
Hiking in Nieuw Nickerie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle riverside walk that offers opportunities to observe birds and local flora along the water’s edge.
Short routes around outskirts of town where visitors can see plantations and flat farmland landscape.
Airports
How to reach Nieuw Nickerie by plane.
The main international gateway to Suriname; a typical route for international arrivals and connections to domestic flights to the western regions, including Nieuw Nickerie.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major cultural group contributing to language, cuisine, and music in the region.
Influence seen in food, dress, and community life, often centered around markets and eateries.
Historically founded communities with distinct traditions and crafts visible in markets and rural areas.
Cultural influence present in food and family businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schools, clubs, and informal pick-up games across town.
Common in schools and local sports centers; recreational leagues exist in the district.
Played in community centers and youth programs; often a social weekend activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nieuw Nickerie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus offer vegetable curries, roti with veg fillings, bean stews, and fresh fruit. Ask for dishes without fish or meat and request extra vegetables or legumes when possible.