Onverwacht
,Onverwacht is a small town located in the Para district of Suriname. It is known for its picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is perfect for nature lovers.
Onverwacht offers visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and history of Suriname in a peaceful setting.
- "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 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Onverwachts Nature
morning
:Start your day with a guided trek in the nearby rainforest. Observe various wildlife and learn about the local ecosystem.
afternoon
:Visit the local community to experience Surinamese culture. Enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by local families.
evening
:Relax by the river and watch the sunset. Share stories with fellow travelers around a campfire.
River Adventures Await!
morning
:Take a kayak tour along the river and discover hidden gems in the mangroves. Spot local birds and other wildlife.
afternoon
:Go fishing with locals and learn about traditional techniques. Prepare your catch for dinner while soaking in the serene environment.
evening
:Savor a delicious fish feast and reflect on the day's adventures. Listen to local folklore shared by your hosts.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse community.
- Abundant natural beauty and opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Calm and peaceful environment away from urban hustle.
- Growing agricultural activities providing local produce.
- Potential for community development projects.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and public services.
- Access to medical and educational facilities may be challenging.
- Economic opportunities may be scarce compared to urban areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as flooding.
- Transportation options may be limited.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Rainforest
Explore the lush rainforests surrounding Onverwacht, where you can enjoy guided hikes that introduce you to the rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna of the region.
Bird Watching
Onverwacht and its surroundings are home to a wide variety of bird species. Join a bird watching tour to discover colorful birds and learn about their habitats.
Fishing in the Suriname River
Take a relaxing fishing trip on the Suriname River. Enjoy the tranquil waters while trying to catch local fish species.
Cultural Tours to Indigenous Communities
Visit nearby indigenous communities to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and connection to the land. This offers a unique cultural experience.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Rent a canoe or kayak to explore the waterways around Onverwacht. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Wildlife Spotting
Join a guided tour focused on wildlife spotting, where you can see monkeys, sloths, and other exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Onverwacht with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Brownsberg Nature Park
A stunning area with elevated viewpoints overlooking the Brokopondo Reservoir and the surrounding rainforest, ideal for breathtaking sunrise and sunset photos.
Brokopondo Reservoir
This expansive reservoir provides wide-angle views of the water and the surrounding hills, perfect for panoramic pictures.
Onverwacht Waterfall
A scenic waterfall located near Onverwacht, offering a peaceful setting for photography with lush greenery and cascading water.
Tafelberg
A nearby mountain that provides a challenging hike with rewarding views from the summit, showcasing the vastness of the Suriname rainforest.
Sarama Lake
A serene lake surrounded by dense forest, providing excellent opportunities for reflection shots and wildlife photography.
Local Culture Spots
Photograph local life and culture in Onverwacht, including colorful markets and friendly residents, for candid and authentic shots.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pom
Pom is a beloved Surinamese dish made from grated cassava, chicken, and a flavorful blend of spices. It's then traditionally baked in the oven until golden brown. For an authentic taste of this savory delight, head to Warung Jawa in Onverwacht.
Must-Try!
Saoto Soup
Saoto soup is a soul-warming Javanese chicken soup infused with aromatic herbs, bean sprouts, and vermicelli noodles. To savor this heartwarming bowl of goodness, visit Telo Suriname, a local hotspot known for its delectable soups.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Onverwacht better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markt Onverwacht
The Markt Onverwacht is a bustling marketplace where you can embark on a sensory journey through an array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and local street food. Don't miss the opportunity to sample barbecued chicken, bami (stir-fried noodles), and crispy pastries.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Onverwacht, as in many parts of Suriname, showing respect to elders is a fundamental cultural norm. It is customary to greet elders first in group settings and to listen attentively to their advice and stories.
Use of Local Language
While Dutch is the official language, using local languages such as Sranan Tongo or Hindi when communicating with residents can show respect and appreciation for their culture. Always attempt to use greetings and simple phrases in the local language.
Dress Modestly
When visiting Onverwacht, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or community sites. This demonstrates respect for local customs and helps foster good relationships with the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Onverwacht with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Onverwacht, Suriname, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. Visitors often tip service staff such as restaurant waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel workers as a gesture of appreciation for good service. The customary tipping amount can vary but is usually around 10% of the total bill.
Payment
Payment methods in Onverwacht include cash and mobile payments. The local currency is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD), and cash transactions are common. Credit and debit cards may be accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and services, as they may not have card facilities.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Onverwacht.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (August to November)
This is considered the best time to visit Onverwacht, Suriname. The weather is cooler and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the local wildlife. Expect sunny days and minimal rainfall.
Wet Season (December to July)
During this season, Onverwacht experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the surrounding nature becomes lush and vibrant, travel may be challenging due to muddy paths. However, this is also a great time for birdwatching and experiencing the rainforest's biodiversity.
Peak Tourist Season (July and December)
These months often see an influx of tourists, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices. It's a good time for festivals and local cultural events. Expect more vibrant local life, but also plan for potential crowds.
Shoulder Season (February to June)
This is an intermediate time when the weather can vary. While you might encounter occasional rain, it's generally still a good time to visit, especially for those looking to avoid the peak crowds. Ruins and national parks are regularly less busy, providing a more personal experience.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Brownsberg Nature Park
A beautiful park located on a plateau with various trails offering stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and waterfalls.
Karamu Nature Trail
A scenic hiking trail through the diverse ecosystems of the rainforest, perfect for birdwatching and experiencing local flora and fauna.
Bonaire Trail
This trail offers an immersive experience into the dense forest with the chance to see unique wildlife and lush vegetation.
Surinamese Forest Reserve
A vast area with several hiking paths, allowing visitors to explore the rich biodiversity of Suriname’s forests.
Jungle Trekking near Paramaribo
Adventure into the jungles of Suriname with guided treks that showcase the natural beauty and indigenous culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Onverwacht through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Onverwacht by plane.
Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM)
The main international airport serving Suriname, located approximately 43 km south of Paramaribo and around 78 km from Onverwacht.
Cheddi Jagan International Airport (GEO)
Located in Guyana, approximately 200 km from Onverwacht, this airport is the main international gateway for flights coming to and from Guyana.
Eugene F. Correira International Airport (OGL)
Also located in Guyana, about 210 km from Onverwacht, this airport caters to various international flights and is a secondary airport for the region.
César M. Quiroga Airport (SCU)
Situated in French Guiana, approximately 290 km from Onverwacht, this airport serves international destinations and offers connections to various locations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hindustani
A significant demographic group primarily descended from Indian indentured laborers.
Creole
People of mixed African and European descent, often with cultural ties to the Afro-Surinamese community.
Javanese
Descendants of Indonesian laborers, primarily from Java, who came to Suriname in the late 19th century.
Indigenous Peoples
Various native tribes, including the Arawak and Carib, who are original inhabitants of the region.
Chinese
A smaller but notable community, primarily involved in commerce and trade.
Mestizo
Individuals of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Others
Includes smaller groups such as Portuguese and Lebanese immigrants.
The Soul of Onverwacht
Discover the essence of Onverwacht through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (Soccer)
Football is the most popular sport in Onverwacht, Suriname, with many local teams and community leagues.
Cricket
Cricket has a dedicated following in Onverwacht, with local clubs participating in regional tournaments.
Basketball
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth, with street games and local competitions being common.
Volleyball
Volleyball is often played in schools and communities, especially during local festivals and events.
Athletics
Track and field events are popular, with local athletes participating in competitions at various levels.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Surinamese cuisine prominently features meat, many establishments in Onverwacht offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as tofu-based dishes, plantain fritters, and hearty vegetable stews.
Gluten-Free Options
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can relish gluten-free selections like cassava bread, plantain chips, and rice-based dishes, which are prevalent in the local culinary scene.