Rainforest Fun in Suriname

Pretty parrot at Johan Margaretha Plantage.

Still in steamy Suriname, enjoying the many sights, sounds and tastes of this amazing place....

A few days ago, we took a day trip from Paramaribo up to Leonsberg (near the Atlantic coast) and boarded a small boat that brought us up the Suriname River to where it meets the Commewijne River, and then both rivers merge with the Atlantic Ocean. Our boat was filled with Dutch tourists on a quest to see the pink dolphins who frequent the area, and indeed, we spotted quite a few of the beautiful creatures as they jumped out of the water, seemingly to entertain us. The guide from Waterproof Tours, Nalini, was an exceptional host for all aboard, serving wine, beer, rum and other drinks, and snacks, as we left the dolphins for the next stop.

Being out on the water in Suriname is a lovely experience; however, where the rivers meet the sea, the water is brown and brackish, so visibility into the water is nil. There is always a gentle breeze to counteract the humidity, and the green of the jungle shoreline has a calming effect.

After a tranquil trip down the Commewijne, our boat docked at the plantage ("Plantation") Johan Margaretha- really just a tiny settlement on the river. Tom and I went for a walk around the main street (a dirt track), where we met some smiling children, a friendly baby goat, a squirrel monkey and a preening parrot. The only vehicles in the village were motorbikes and one small pick up truck, so it is a peaceful place indeed.

We were sorry to leave the plantage, but we were hoping to view a nice sunset out on the water, so we bid farewell to Johan Margaretha. Alas, there would be no magnificent sunset for us this time, but instead we had delightful conversations with the other passengers on the boat (almost all Dutch people speak excellent English), and a few more drinks!

Here are some photos from our day trip - hope you enjoy them!

From the pier at Leonsberg, Suriname.

Abundant coconuts.

A river boat waits for passengers.

Village girls share a bike.

Tom is meeting a baby goat, while the squirrel monkey vies for attention.

My new friend, a baby goat.

Squirmy baby wants to play with the parrot!

Another day on the river comes to an end.