SARAMACCA

Saramacca is a popular district located less than an hour’s drive from Paramaribo. Known for its tranquil rural atmosphere, the district is centered around the Saramacca River, which flows from the south through Para and Sipaliwini before reaching the coast. The river has shaped both the economy and daily life of the district, providing scenic waterways, fertile land, and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Groningen – History and Riverside Charm

The main town of Groningen has deep historical ties to the Netherlands. To protect plantations from attacks by runaway slaves, a pentagonal fort was built in 1790 and named after the Dutch city and province of Groningen.

In 1845, Dutch farmers began settling in the district, initially on the plantation Voorzorg, a swampy and challenging area. Many farmers struggled with tropical diseases, eventually relocating to Groningen itself. Today, their descendants are known in Suriname as “boeroes”, and the Monument van de Boeroes commemorates their perseverance and early settlement.

Groningen is especially lively on weekends. Visitors from Paramaribo and Wanica come to enjoy the refreshing river breezes, picnic along the waterfront, and browse local handicrafts. On Sundays, Indigenous artisans sell handmade jewelry made from tropical seeds and colorful feathers, offering a vibrant taste of local culture.

Culinary Diversity

Saramacca is home to large Hindustani and Javanese communities, and this diversity is reflected in the district’s culinary offerings. Visitors can experience rich flavors and traditional dishes from both cultures, making it a small but remarkable destination for food lovers.

Nature & Wildlife

One of Saramacca’s unique natural experiences is manatee spotting in the Saramacca River. These gentle giants, also known as sea cows, are best observed from the riverbank in the early morning, though boat trips provide a closer encounter for the adventurous.

The district also offers peaceful landscapes of small plots of farmland, traditional houses, and riverside greenery — a perfect escape from the city and a chance to experience rural Surinamese life.

Batavia – A Pilgrimage Site

Located on the Coppename River south of the district, Batavia is a historical site where a 19th-century leper colony was established. Dutch missionary Petrus (Peerke) Donders arrived in Suriname in 1842 and dedicated 27 years of his life to caring for the lepers.

Donders passed away in 1887 and was beatified in 1982 by Pope John Paul II. Today, Batavia remains an important pilgrimage destination for visitors seeking to connect with its spiritual and historical significance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b–_U_60TqM&t=6s

Practical Tips

• The Saramacca River offers boating opportunities for sightseeing and wildlife spotting.
• Weekends are ideal for visiting Groningen’s riverfront and artisan markets.
• For a unique cultural experience, combine a trip to the riverbanks with a visit to Batavia.