Things To Do
in Nieuw Nickerie
Nieuw Nickerie is a small town located in the western part of Suriname, near the border with Guyana. It is known for its picturesque waterfront area along the Nickerie River, where boats come and go carrying goods and passengers. The town's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice being a major crop grown in the surrounding area.
Nieuw Nickerie is a quiet and laid-back town, offering visitors a glimpse of rural life in Suriname.
- "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): $25 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 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 picturesque beaches of Nieuw Nickerie. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore and take in the beautiful sunrise.
Explore the local markets to get a taste of Surinamese culture and cuisine. Sample traditional dishes and pick up some souvenirs from local artisans.
Relax at a beachfront café with stunning ocean views. Savor a delicious dinner while watching the sunset over the water.
Visit the nearby Bigi Pan Nature Reserve for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the exotic species.
Take a boat tour through the mangroves and waterways, appreciating the rich biodiversity of the area. Keep your camera ready for some stunning shots.
End your day with a scenic stroll by the river promenade. Listen to the calming sounds of nature as night falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and natural beauty, with access to rivers and forests.
- Cultural diversity and vibrant community with various ethnic groups.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other regions.
- Emerging economic opportunities, particularly in agriculture and eco-tourism.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities compared to urban centers.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as poor road conditions and inconsistent utility services.
- Vulnerability to flooding and environmental changes due to its geographical location.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields, leading to potential brain drain.
Best Activities in Nieuw Nickerie
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the rich biodiversity of the Coppename River, where you can spot various bird species in their natural habitat. This activity is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Experience deep-sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean. Local guides can take you to the best spots for catching a variety of fish, making for an adventurous day on the water.
Paddle through the serene mangrove forests surrounding Nieuw Nickerie. This activity allows you to appreciate the unique ecosystem and observe local wildlife up close.
Explore this protected area known for its rich flora and fauna. Guided tours often include hikes through the reserve, where you can learn about the local environment and conservation efforts.
Engage with local communities to learn about their traditions, crafts, and lifestyle. These immersive experiences often include visits to local markets and cultural workshops.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nieuw Nickerie with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nieuw Nickerie
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic river that offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of Suriname.
This beach area provides breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and is ideal for photography during golden hour.
A nature park that features lush greenery and a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature photography.
A central location in the town that often showcases local life and culture, offering unique photo opportunities of everyday scenes.
Vibrant and colorful markets where you can capture the hustle and bustle of local vendors and the diverse range of products available.
Food in Nieuw Nickerie
Nieuw Nickerie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Surinamese dish made from grated cassava and chicken, often baked to perfection. Its savory and hearty flavors are a must-try.
Must-Try!
Bara, a type of Surinamese-Indian fried dough, is a popular street food often paired with spicy chutney. The combination offers a burst of flavors and textures.
These tasty Surinamese-Javanese fried snacks made from mashed cassava or plantains are commonly served with peanut sauce, creating a delightful blend of sweet and savory.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nieuw Nickerie better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Nickerie Market is a bustling hub of local street food vendors offering a variety of authentic Surinamese snacks, fresh fruits, and aromatic spices. It's a fantastic place to sample an assortment of street foods and experience the vibrant food culture of Nieuw Nickerie.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nieuw Nickerie, it is important to show respect towards elders. This can be demonstrated through polite greetings and addressing them with appropriate titles. Listening attentively to their advice and opinions is also valued.
Greetings are significant in Surinamese culture. A firm handshake is common, and maintaining eye contact is appreciated. Use polite language and take time to engage in small talk, as this fosters good relationships.
Dress modestly while in public spaces. Although casual clothing is accepted, wearing neat and clean attire is recommended, especially when visiting homes or attending formal events to show respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nieuw Nickerie with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nieuw Nickerie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nieuw Nickerie, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip in restaurants and cafes, usually around 10% of the bill if service was good. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also customary, although the amounts may vary based on service quality.
Payments in Nieuw Nickerie can be made in cash, with the Surinamese Dollar (SRD) being the primary currency. Many establishments accept credit and debit cards, though smaller vendors may prefer cash. Mobile payment methods are gradually being adopted, but cash remains prevalent in everyday transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nieuw Nickerie.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Nieuw Nickerie is during the dry season when rainfall is significantly lower. Expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and less humidity, making outdoor activities and sightseeing more enjoyable. It is ideal for exploring nature reserves and experiencing local festivals.
While the wet season can bring heavy rains and higher humidity, it is also the time when the landscape is lush and vibrant. Visitors can expect tropical storms followed by sunshine. This season is great for those interested in birdwatching and experiencing the unique flora and fauna that thrive in wetter conditions, but travelers should be prepared for potential travel disruptions due to weather.
The months of April and November serve as transition periods between the dry and wet seasons. Visitors can expect fluctuating weather with occasional rain showers and sunny days. These months can be less crowded and offer a more serene experience in nature.
Nieuw Nickerie at Night
Hiking in Nieuw Nickerie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring vast rainforest landscapes, diverse wildlife, and various hiking trails for varying skill levels.
A scenic hiking trail that offers views of the surrounding nature and a chance to explore the rich flora and fauna of the region.
A popular hiking destination that leads to stunning waterfalls, with paths suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
A challenging hike that culminates in breathtaking views from the top of the Voltzberg, one of Suriname's most iconic landmarks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nieuw Nickerie through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nieuw Nickerie by plane.
The largest international airport in Suriname, located approximately 60 km southeast of Nieuw Nickerie, serving as the main gateway for international flights.
Also known as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, it is the principal airport in Suriname, handling both domestic and international traffic.
Located in Brazil, this airport is approximately 280 km from Nieuw Nickerie and serves as an international point for travelers heading to and from South America.
Located in French Guiana, about 400 km to the east of Nieuw Nickerie, it is a significant international airport serving regional flights to several destinations.
While it is located further away in Houston, Texas, USA, this airport serves numerous international flights for travelers from Suriname heading to North America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Nieuw Nickerie, primarily descendants of African slaves.
Descendants of Indian indentured laborers, significantly contributing to the cultural and economic landscape.
Descendants of Indonesian laborers who were brought to Suriname in the late 19th century.
Various groups that have historically inhabited the region, including the Arawak and the Carib.
A smaller but notable community involved in trade and various local enterprises.
Descendants of immigrants from Madeira, involved in agriculture and commerce.
A small expatriate community, primarily involved in business and government sectors.
The Soul of Nieuw Nickerie
Discover the essence of Nieuw Nickerie through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Nieuw Nickerie and Suriname as a whole, with many local teams and a strong fan base.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Nieuw Nickerie, influenced by the British colonial history and the Caribbean region.
Track and field events are popular, with local athletes competing in various competitions at different levels.
Basketball is played recreationally and competitively, with local leagues contributing to its popularity among youth.
Volleyball is played both indoors and on the beach, making it a favored pastime among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nieuw Nickerie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Nieuw Nickerie, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, often showcasing the culinary heritage of the region. Warung Jekek, for instance, is known for its flavorful vegetarian and vegan Javanese-Surinamese fare.
While gluten-free options may be less prevalent, some establishments in Nieuw Nickerie, especially those serving traditional Surinamese cuisine, may offer gluten-free dishes. It's advisable to inquire with the staff to ensure a pleasant dining experience.