Things To Do
in Totness
Totness is a picturesque town located in the Sipaliwini District of Suriname. It serves as a hub for travelers wanting to explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including rivers and jungles. The town is known for its serene and laid-back atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Totness also has a rich cultural heritage, with diverse influences from indigenous, African, and Dutch populations.
- "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 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful beaches of Totness. Enjoy the sunrise while taking a brief stroll along the shore.
Taste local cuisine at a nearby eatery. Dive into Surinamese flavors with dishes like pom and saoto soup.
Wind down with a relaxing bonfire on the beach. Share stories with friends under the starry sky.
Embark on a guided trek through the lush rainforest surrounding Totness. Observe unique plants and wildlife.
Take a break for a picnic lunch in a serene spot amidst nature. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape.
Visit a local market to experience the vibrant community atmosphere. Browse handmade crafts and fresh produce.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse community
- Beautiful natural surroundings and biodiversity
- Opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor activities
- Relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas
- Close-knit community with a relaxed lifestyle
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities
- Underdeveloped infrastructure and transportation options
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rate
- Potential for crime and safety concerns in certain areas
- Vulnerability to environmental issues like flooding and deforestation
Best Activities in Totness
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush tropical rainforest surrounding Totness, with guided hikes that showcase the local flora and fauna.
Enjoy bird watching in the diverse ecosystems near Totness, home to many colorful and unique bird species.
Experience fishing in the nearby rivers or lakes, with opportunities to catch various local fish species.
Visit beautiful waterfalls in the region, perfect for swimming and relaxing in a serene natural setting.
Engage with local indigenous communities to learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life.
Join a photography tour to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife in and around Totness.
Set up camp in designated areas to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Surinamese outdoors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Totness with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Totness
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and the Brokopondo Reservoir. The numerous viewpoints along the hiking trails provide excellent photo opportunities of nature.
The reservoir is known for its vast waterscapes and lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot for sunset photography and nature shots.
A scenic area with rich flora and fauna, providing ample opportunities to capture the beauty of Suriname's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
While technically in the capital, the historic architecture and river views can be reached easily from Totness and offer stunning backdrops for photography.
Capture the essence of local life and the charming village ambiance, with opportunities to photograph traditional houses and the nearby river.
Food in Totness
Totness Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory casserole dish made with root vegetables, chicken, and often accompanied by a hint of citrus. It's a must-try and can be found at local eateries like Warung Attila.
Must-Try!
An Indian-inspired flatbread served with a variety of curried fillings, such as chicken, vegetables, or goat. Try the authentic Surinamese roti at Roti Shop Switi.
A comforting Javanese chicken soup infused with lemongrass, turmeric, and a mix of toppings like bean sprouts, fried onions, and boiled egg. Sample this traditional dish at Wartkoekoe Saoto.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Totness better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Take a stroll through Totness Market to savor a wide array of street food offerings, including bara (chickpea fritters), roti, and grilled skewers of spicy chicken or fish. The bustling market is a vibrant hub of local flavors and culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Totness, it is customary to greet people warmly. A handshake is common, but it is also respectful to use local greetings in Sranan Tongo or Hindi, depending on the ethnic backgrounds of those you are interacting with.
When visiting local communities or attending cultural events, dress modestly and respectfully. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal due to the tropical climate, but ensure that attire is not revealing as this can be seen as disrespectful.
Listening carefully and showing patience during conversations is valued in Surinamese culture. Interrupting or rushing through discussions can be perceived as rude, so allow people to express their thoughts fully before responding.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Totness with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Totness
Ensure a smooth experience
In Totness, Suriname, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small tip in restaurants and for services such as taxi drivers and hotel staff. Typically, a tip of around 10% is considered generous.
Payment in Totness can be made in Surinamese dollars, and cash is widely used. Some businesses may accept credit or debit cards, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. Mobile payment options are becoming more popular but are not universally accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Totness.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Totness is during the dry season. Expect lower humidity, less rainfall, and more pleasant temperatures. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, exploring natural attractions, and experiencing local culture without the disruptions of heavy rain.
The wet season in Totness brings higher humidity and frequent rainfall. While temperatures remain warm, you can expect lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. This season is best for travelers looking to experience the local flora and fauna but should be prepared for occasional downpours.
Totness at Night
Hiking in Totness
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning range with scenic hikes, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking views, located a few hours from Totness.
Cultural hiking trails that offer insight into the Maroon communities along with lush rainforest landscapes.
A protected area that's home to several hiking trails, with opportunities to see wildlife and magnificent waterfalls.
Trails within a nature resort that provide guided hikes through pristine jungle and river views.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, this reserve offers various hiking opportunities including river crossings and scenic lookouts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Totness through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Totness by plane.
The primary international airport in Suriname, located about 45 kilometers from Totness, offering flights to various destinations in the Caribbean and Europe.
Also known as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, this facility serves as a hub for international traffic and is the main gateway for airlines operating in Suriname.
Located in Guyana, approximately 150 kilometers from Totness, this airport is one of the primary international airports in the region, connecting flights between South America and the Caribbean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The original inhabitants of the area, preserving their unique cultural identity and traditions.
People of mixed Indigenous and European descent, representing a significant portion of the population.
Descendants of African slaves and European colonizers, known for their diverse culture and history.
Includes various immigrants and their descendants, such as Chinese, Hindustani, and Javanese communities.
The Soul of Totness
Discover the essence of Totness through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Totness, Suriname, attracting a large number of players and fans.
Cricket has a significant following in Totness, with local matches and tournaments being common.
Basketball is popular among the youth in Totness, with many playing in local courts and schools.
Volleyball is frequently played in Totness, especially in beach and recreational settings.
Track and field events are organized in Totness, showcasing local athletes competing in various disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Totness.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan variations of traditional dishes, such as vegetarian pom or roti filled with flavorful vegetables. Friendly staff members are often willing to accommodate special dietary requests.
While gluten-free options may be limited, many establishments are familiar with dietary restrictions and can often adapt dishes to suit gluten-free requirements. It's advisable to communicate your needs clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.