Margaretha Plantation

Margaretha is a historic plantation in the Commewijne District, established in 1745 and named after the wife of the owner at the time. During its peak, it was a major center for coffee and cocoa cultivation, as the fertile soils near the mouth of the Suriname River allowed for high yields. Following the economic decline of the plantation system in the late 19th century, Margaretha evolved into a quiet village that today relies primarily on fishing and subsistence farming. Its location directly opposite Fort Nieuw-Amsterdam made the site historically strategic for monitoring shipping traffic entering the river. Many of the current residents are descendants of Indian indentured laborers who arrived to work the fields after the abolition of slavery. Despite modern changes, the colonial layout remains discernible in the drainage ditches and land parceling that once formed the basis for efficient irrigation. For visitors, Margaretha gives a peaceful destination providing insight into rural life away from the capital and documenting the long-standing connection between the people and the river.

Nearby cities

Paramaribo

The vibrant capital of Suriname is situated on the banks of the river of the same name.

Lelydorp

This municipality south of Paramaribo is the second-largest city in the country.

Cola Creek

A popular recreational swimming spot with dark, cola-colored water, surrounded by shaded forests.

Brownsweg

A significant settlement of the Maroon community and the central starting point for tours to the Brokopondo Lake and Brownsberg.

History & landmarks

Commewijne plantations

Historic plantations along the Commewijne River, famous for colonial history and dolphin spotting tours.

Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge

A massive bridge over the Suriname River, connecting Paramaribo with Meerzorg.

Bergendal

A luxury eco-resort and historic site on the Suriname River, blending adventure with colonial history.

More places

Rust en Werk

A huge historical plantation on the lower Commewijne River, today known for cattle breeding.

Katwijk Plantation

The only plantation in Suriname that still produces and processes Liberica coffee today.

Frederiksdorp

A former 18th-century plantation with restored historic buildings.

Fort Sommelsdijk

A colonial fortress at the confluence of two important rivers to protect against enemy attacks.

Suzanna's Daal

An old sugar plantation on the right bank of the Suriname River, named after the founder's wife.

Kroonenburg Plantation

A historic sugar plantation that was later divided into small agricultural plots.

Peperpot Plantation

One of the oldest coffee and cocoa plantations in Suriname, now partly a nature park.

Alliance Plantation

A historical citrus plantation that was once one of the most important agricultural centers in the region.