Suriname's coast is one of the most important nesting areas in the Atlantic for the leatherback, the largest sea turtle, and green turtles nest here too. On dark evenings in season, females come ashore to dig a nest and lay eggs, a process that takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
The easiest beach to reach is Braamspunt at the mouth of the Suriname River, a short boat trip from Paramaribo. Matapica in Commewijne and Galibi near the border with French Guiana are longer trips with an overnight stay.
Good to know
- Getting there
- Braamspunt evening tours leave by boat from Leonsberg or Nieuw Amsterdam, about 1.5 hours of sailing in total. Matapica is reached via Commewijne; Galibi is about 3 hours by road to Albina, then by boat.
- Season
- Nesting runs from about February to August, with the most leatherbacks from April to July. Hatchlings emerge later in the season.
- Time needed
- A Braamspunt evening tour takes about 6 hours, usually starting late afternoon. Matapica and Galibi are 2 or 3 day trips.
- Entry and permits
- Braamspunt evening tours cost about 65 to 85 euro per person. Matapica trips start around 95 euro and Galibi trips around 150 to 250 euro. Check with the operator.
- Tips
- Follow your guide: no flash photography or white torches, keep your distance and never touch the turtles or eggs. Bring insect repellent and a light rain jacket.
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.
Location
Map data © Google. Click the map to see locations, reviews & directions.