Swimming in Suriname means dark, tea-coloured creeks and river rapids rather than beaches. The blackwater gets its colour from plant tannins in the forest soil. Colakreek near Zanderij, named for its cola-coloured water, is the classic weekend spot from Paramaribo.
Other options are the Warappa creek in Commewijne, the Irene and Leo falls at Brownsberg, and the natural rock pools and rapids called sulas along the Upper Suriname River, where lodges offer river swimming.
Good to know
- Getting there
- Colakreek lies in Para district, about 10 minutes from Johan Adolf Pengel airport at Zanderij. Warappa creek is reached by road and boat via Commewijne. Upper Suriname sulas are about 4 hours by road to Atjoni, then by boat.
- Best time to go
- All year. The dry seasons (mid-August to November and around March and April) bring calmer, clearer water; Colakreek is busiest on weekends.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day for Colakreek or Warappa creek; 2 to 4 days for a lodge stay on the Upper Suriname River.
- Entry and permits
- Day trips to Warappa creek cost about 75 euro per person including transport. Colakreek charges an entry fee at the gate; check current rates with the operator.
- Tips
- Swim only where your guide or the park says it is safe; currents at rapids can be strong and swimming in the sulas depends on the water level. Bring water shoes and insect repellent.
Operators that offer this
Tour operators listed on Explore Suriname, with a direct link to their own tour page.
Prices and dates change. Check with the operator before you book.
Where to stay nearby
Fallawatra Green Resort
Sipaliwini
Location
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