Commewijne District

Commewijne District, Suriname - Complete Travel Guide

Commewijne District is a captivating region in northern Suriname that offers visitors a unique blend of colonial history, pristine nature, and cultural diversity. Located along the Atlantic coast and bordered by the Suriname and Commewijne rivers, this district is home to historic plantations, mangrove forests, and charming riverside communities that showcase the country's rich multicultural heritage. The district's crown jewel is the former coffee and cacao plantation of Nieuw Netherlands, now a fascinating open-air museum that tells the story of Suriname's colonial past. Beyond its historical significance, Commewijne District serves as a gateway to some of Suriname's most spectacular natural attractions, including dolphin watching opportunities, bird-rich wetlands, and traditional fishing villages where time seems to have stood still.

Top Commewijne District

Nieuw Amsterdam Historic Plantation Tour

Explore the remarkably preserved 18th-century plantation complex that now serves as an open-air museum. Walk through the colonial buildings, slave quarters, and processing facilities while learning about Suriname's complex history of slavery, colonialism, and cultural fusion.

Booking Tip: Tours cost around $15-25 USD and are best booked through local operators in Paramaribo. Visit during cooler morning hours (8-11 AM) for the most comfortable experience, and choose guides who can provide historical context in your preferred language.

Dolphin Watching at the River Confluence

Take a boat excursion to witness the remarkable sight of pink and gray dolphins playing at the confluence of the Suriname and Commewijne rivers. This natural phenomenon occurs where fresh and salt water meet, creating an ideal habitat for these magnificent marine mammals.

Booking Tip: Dolphin tours range from $40-80 USD per person depending on group size and duration. Book with experienced local boat operators who know the best viewing spots, and plan for early morning or late afternoon trips when dolphins are most active.

Mangrove Forest Exploration

Navigate through the intricate waterways of Commewijne's extensive mangrove ecosystems by boat or kayak. These vital coastal forests teem with bird life, crabs, and fish, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and environmental education.

Booking Tip: Mangrove tours cost $30-60 USD and are best experienced during high tide when waterways are fully navigable. Choose eco-certified operators who prioritize conservation, and bring insect repellent and waterproof bags for equipment.

Traditional Fishing Village Visits

Discover authentic Surinamese rural life by visiting traditional fishing communities along the district's rivers and coast. Experience local customs, sample fresh seafood, and learn about traditional fishing techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Village visits are often included in day tours costing $50-100 USD, or can be arranged independently for $20-40 USD. Respect local customs by asking permission before photographing people, and consider purchasing local crafts to support community economies.

Colonial Architecture and Cemetery Tours

Explore the district's well-preserved colonial buildings and historic cemeteries that reflect Suriname's diverse cultural heritage. These sites showcase Dutch colonial architecture alongside Jewish, Christian, and other cultural monuments dating back centuries.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, while guided tours cost $25-45 USD and provide valuable historical context. Visit during dry season months for better access to outdoor sites, and wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.

Getting There

Commewijne District is easily accessible from Paramaribo, Suriname's capital, located just 30 kilometers away. Most visitors take a scenic 45-minute drive via the Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge across the Suriname River, or opt for the more adventurous 15-minute ferry crossing that offers beautiful river views. Public buses run regularly between Paramaribo and Nieuw Netherlands for around $2 USD, while private transfers and rental cars provide more flexibility for exploring multiple sites within the district.

Getting Around

Local transportation within Commewijne District relies primarily on small buses, shared taxis, and private vehicles, as the area is quite rural with limited public transport infrastructure. Renting a car or hiring a driver for the day ($40-80 USD) is highly recommended for maximum flexibility in visiting plantations, villages, and natural sites. Boat transportation is essential for river excursions and can be arranged through local operators, while bicycles can be rented in some areas for exploring shorter distances along the coastal roads.

Where to Stay

Nieuw Netherlands town center

Rust en Werk plantation area

Frederiksdorp riverside

Totness village

Alliance coastal area

Bakkie fishing village

Food & Dining

Commewijne District offers authentic Surinamese cuisine with strong influences from Javanese, Indian, Chinese, and Creole traditions, primarily served in small local restaurants and family-run eateries. Fresh seafood is abundant, with specialties including grilled fish, shrimp curry, and traditional dishes like pom (a cassava-based casserole) and roti. Most dining establishments are casual and affordable ($5-15 USD per meal), and many plantation sites offer traditional lunches as part of tour packages, providing an excellent opportunity to sample local flavors in historic settings.

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When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Commewijne District is during Suriname's dry seasons, particularly from February to April and August to November, when rainfall is minimal and roads are more accessible. These periods offer the best conditions for outdoor activities, boat excursions, and wildlife viewing, with comfortable temperatures averaging 26-30°C (79-86°F). The wet seasons (May-July and December-January) can make some rural areas difficult to reach, though they offer lush green landscapes and fewer crowds for those who don't mind occasional rain showers.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Surinamese dollars as most local operators and restaurants don't accept credit cards

Pack insect repellent and long sleeves for mangrove and plantation visits to protect against mosquitoes

Learn a few basic Dutch or Sranan Tongo phrases as English may be limited outside tourist areas