Diving in Suriname
Diving in Suriname
Are you looking for a dive destination that is different from the typical Caribbean reefs?
Discover the hidden underwater world of Suriname
Diving in Suriname offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Instead of clear tropical waters, you explore the Suriname River, the Marowijne River and the foothills of the Atlantic Ocean. Here it’s all about freshwater and brackish water diving, where you can meet special fish species such as Moenkhausia surinamensis, Leporinus granti and Poptella brevispina. Marine biodiversity is vastly different from what you find at traditional dive sites.
Blue Bird Tours & Travel connects you with local dive experts and naturalist guides who know these waters like the back of their hand. You will not only explore underwater world at Cola Creek or the Commewijne River, but combine this with visits to the Brownsberg Nature Park and the tropical forest of the Central Suriname Nature Reserve. After your diving adventure, you can spend the night at the Eco Torarica hotel or Courtyard Marriott in Paramaribo, before moving on to Bigi Pan or the Palumeu River for even more nature experience.
This trip goes beyond standard tourism. You will experience Suriname as locals know it, with authentic stories and hidden places that only true insiders share.
Where and when to go underwater in Suriname
White Beach and the Atlantic Ocean Coastal Zone
Although Suriname is not known for crystal clear reefs, the coastal zone at White Beach is an accessible starting point for divers who want to get used to the brackish water. The Atlantic Ocean meets river water here, creating a unique blend of salty and fresh. Visibility varies greatly depending on the season, but marine biodiversity remains surprising. You will also find Caribbean beach character here, although the landscape is rougher and less polished than on the islands. For those who want to make a first dive in Suriname, this is a comfortable introduction to the local underwater world.
River diving along the Commewijne river and Gran Rio
The Commewijne River and Gran Rio offer a totally different diving experience than ocean diving. Here you dive into murkier waters, but discover fish species that are found nowhere else. Kumaru njanjan, Peti sula and Awadan sula are local names that you will learn from your guide during your dive. The Palumeu River attracts adventurers who want to go deeper inland, where the current is stronger and the tropical forest reaches the water’s edge. Blue Bird connects you with experienced river guides who make these waters safe for both beginners and advanced divers.
Combine diving with nature parks and waterfalls
After a diving session, you can extend your trip with a visit to the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage area known for its pristine rainforests. The Blanche Marie Waterfalls are located in this area and offer a wonderful change from the underwater work. The Brownsberg Nature Park and Bigi Pan lake are also ideal for nature lovers who want to combine diving with bird watching and hiking. Lake Brokopondo even offers opportunities for freshwater diving, where you can explore the underwater flora and fauna of inland waters in peace.
Accommodations for divers in Paramaribo and surroundings
Paramaribo is the ideal base for diving adventures. The Eco Torarica hotel, the Courtyard Marriott and the Krasnapolsky hotel are all located in or near the center, making it easy to travel to dive sites and enjoy a visit to Casino Paramaribo in the evening. For those who value sustainability, Eco Torarica is the best choice. Through Blue Bird, you can book accommodation, dive trips, and transportation in one package, saving time and hassle. You can also spend the night at Plantage Frederiksdorp, a historic place on the Commewijne River where colonial architecture and nature come together.
Scuba Gear and Responsible Travel
Many local operators work with recycled materials and provide a waterproof map of the dive sites, so you always know where you are. If you have a PADI Club™ certification, you can upgrade your level at recognized schools in Paramaribo. Aquatic Discoveries is one of the partners that recommends Blue Bird for reliable guidance. Don’t forget to download an interactive map before you set off so you can access routes and dive spots offline. May 29, 2024 marks the start of the new season for river tours, ideal for planners who want to book their trip early.
Special dive spots off the beaten track
For real adventurers, Cola Creek, Bigi Pan and the Turtle Beach Galibi on the Marowijne River are on your route. At Galibi you can spot sea turtles between March and August, a special addition to your diving trip. Surinamese dolphins sometimes swim in the estuary, an encounter you never forget. Fort Zeelandia in Paramaribo also tells the story of Dutch Guiana and fits perfectly into a culturally rich diving holiday. Blue Bird helps you combine all this into one unforgettable itinerary through Suriname.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I combine a diving trip to Suriname with a visit to other countries?
Blue Bird Tours & Travel makes it easy to combine Suriname with islands such as Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Sint Maarten. For example, after your diving adventures in the Surinamese River , you can fly on to Bonaire for reefs or Aruba for beach entertainment. The platform lets you arrange accommodations, tours, and transportation for multiple destinations in one booking. Flights between these destinations are available via regional airlines. Recommended is at least 4-5 days per country for a full-fledged experience that goes beyond standard itineraries.
What role does VTB Around The World play in diving trips to Suriname?
VTB Around The World is a licensed travel company that partners with platforms such as Blue Bird for structured group tours and individual packages. Through this partnership you get access to reliable local partners and PADI Club-certified™ diving schools in Paramaribo and the surrounding area. VTB also offers travel insurance policies that are specifically suitable for adventure activities such as diving in Suriname. Blue Bird integrates these services into their booking platform, so you can arrange everything in one place without any additional administrative burden. Ideal for those looking for certainty and quality.
What is Zorg & Hoop and why is it relevant for divers?
Zorg & Hoop is a historic plantation on the Commewijne River, which is often visited during river trips and diving expeditions. The area offers insight into the colonial history of Dutch Guiana and is close to dive spots where you can spot special fish species such as Leporinus granti and Poptella brevispina . Blue Bird combines cultural visits to Zorg & Hoop with natural diving adventures, giving you a complete picture of Suriname’s rich past and biodiversity. The plantation is easily accessible by boat and fits perfectly into a multi-day diving trip along the river.
How do I use the interactive map and why do I need to turn off the voice?
Blue Bird offers an interactive map that you can use offline during your diving trip through remote areas such as Bigi Pan, Gran Rio and the Palumeu River. The vote out function is useful when you are in quiet areas or nature reserves where noise pollution is undesirable, such as at the Galibi Turtle Beach or the Central Suriname Nature Reserve. Download the map prior to your trip and mark dive sites, accommodations, and points of interest. This way, you can stay oriented without an internet connection and save data costs during your adventure in the tropical forest.
What local fish names should I know as a diver in Suriname?
While diving in Suriname you will encounter fish species with local names such as Kumaru njanjan, Peti sula and Awadan sula. These names are used by river guides and local communities along the Marowijne River and Commewijne River. Scientific names such as Moenkhausia surinamensis, Leporinus granti and Poptella brevispina are among the most common species in freshwater and brackish water. Blue Bird connects you with guides who know both names, so you not only dive but also learn about the marine biodiversity and cultural context of the underwater world.
Why is May 29, 2024 an important date for diving trips?
On May 29, 2024 , the new season for river tours and diving expeditions in Suriname will start, organized by Blue Bird and local partners such as Aquatic Discoveries. This marks the beginning of the dry period, in which underwater visibility improves and the flow in rivers such as the Suriname River and Gran Rio is more manageable. Early booking through Blue Bird gives you access to popular dates and ensures better availability of PADI Club™ instructors and accommodations like the Eco Torarica hotel. Plan your trip well in advance to make the most of the most favorable conditions.
What sustainable practices do dive operators in Suriname adopt?
Many Blue Bird dive partners work with recycled materials for dive equipment and boat maintenance, and offer a waterproof map made from eco-friendly fabrics. Operators at Cola Creek, Bigi Pan Lake and the Palumeu River have strict guidelines in place to minimize disturbance to the tropical forest and marine biodiversity . Blue Bird selects partners who contribute to nature conservation and support local communities. Divers receive education about responsible behavior underwater, such as not touching fish species and avoiding waste in nature reserves such as the Central Suriname Nature Reserve.
What makes Fort Zeelandia interesting for divers looking for culture?
Fort Zeelandia in Paramaribo tells the story of Dutch Guiana and the colonial period, a perfect cultural addition to your diving adventure. The fort is located on the Suriname River and offers a view over the water where you may dive. Blue Bird integrates visits to Fort Zeelandia into multi-day packages, so that after a morning of diving you can explore the history of Suriname in the afternoon. Combine this with a stay at the nearby Krasnapolsky hotel or Courtyard Marriott, both within walking distance of historical sites and the Casino Paramaribo for evening entertainment.
Your journey, just the way you want it
Whether you dream of a private snorkeling tour, a surprise trip for a special occasion or just want to be completely unburdened, we will arrange it!
Together, we’ll put together a unique experience that perfectly suits your needs. Personalized, flexible and organized to perfection.
