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Raleigh Falls

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Landmark
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Raleigh Falls (Suriname)

Weather…

Raleigh Falls (Raleighvallen) are situated on the upper reaches of the Coppename River in the heart of Suriname and are part of the Central Suriname UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite their name, they are not traditional vertical waterfalls but rather an extensive series of rapids and cascades flowing over granite bedrock. They were named after Sir Walter Raleigh, although the explorer never actually reached this specific inland region. The area surrounding the falls is a premier hotspot for birdwatching, with over 400 documented species, including the lively Guianan Cock-of-the-rock. Nearby Foengoe Island serves as the main base for expeditions to the Voltzberg dome and provides basic facilities for researchers and eco-tourists. The falls are only accessible by small motorized boats, which helps maintain the pristine nature of the environment. The continuous roar of the water and the surrounding dense rainforest make this one of Suriname's most iconic natural landmarks.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626262625252626282826
Rain mm147133132203300251227148696893173

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Raleigh Falls are an impressive natural wonder that can be visited on guided tours. Access is usually by boat; independent travel is difficult.
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Typical hours
Tours typically depart early morning and last the full day. The falls have no fixed opening hours; booking is required.
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Photography
Photography is expressly allowed on tours. The thundering falls and surrounding rainforest offer spectacular shots; waterproof protection for your camera is recommended.
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Time needed
A full-day tour to the falls typically takes 8-10 hours including travel. Time on site is about 2-3 hours.
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Combine with
Combine the trip with a boat ride on the Coppename River and a visit to the Raleighvallen Nature Reserve. Many tours also include a stop at a monkey island.
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Getting there
Raleigh Falls are deep in the rainforest, accessible only by boat from the village of Boskamp. Travel to Boskamp is via highway from Paramaribo (about 3 hours).
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Insider tip
Book the tour through a reliable operator in Paramaribo. Bring swimwear as you can swim in the cool water at certain spots.

Geography

Coordinates
4.70000, -56.20000

Facts

  • Included in the Central Suriname UNESCO site.
  • Named in honor of explorer Sir Walter Raleigh.
  • Technically a series of rapids rather than falls.
  • Over 400 bird species recorded in the vicinity.
  • Foengoe Island serves as the primary visitor base.
  • Can only be reached by river boat (korjaal).

Explore nearby

Notable places around

VoltzbergVoltzberg3 km · WExplore →
Coppename RiverCoppename River38 km · SEExplore →
Central Suriname Nature ReserveCentral Suriname Nature Reserve55 km · SWExplore →
Bakhuys MountainsBakhuys Mountains67 km · SWExplore →
Wilhelmina MountainsWilhelmina Mountains81 km · SWExplore →
Camp 52Camp 5288 km · NExplore →
DanpaatiDanpaati91 km · NExplore →
Calcutta Oil FieldCalcutta Oil Field93 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Raleigh Falls (1)

Raleigh Airstrip📍 landmark

Raleigh Airstrip is a small landing strip in the rainforest, near the Raleigh Falls in Suriname.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How are the waterfalls accessible?
They are part of the Voltzberg reserve and accessible only by boat trip.
Can you camp there?
Yes, there are simple accommodation options nearby.
How loud is it?
The waterfalls create a constant, impressive roar.
When is the best light for photos?
Early in the morning to avoid harsh midday light.
What should I pack?
Waterproof bags for your cameras and equipment.
Raleigh Falls: where is it located?
Raleigh Falls is located in Suriname.
Raleigh Falls: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Raleigh Falls: why is it worth visiting?
Raleigh Falls (Raleighvallen) are situated on the upper reaches of the Coppename River in the heart of Suriname and are part of the Central Suriname UNESCO World Heritage site.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nature

Coppename River — Raleigh Falls (Suriname)
Coppename River
An important river known for its pristine nature and impressive waterfalls.

More places

Voltzberg — Raleigh Falls (Suriname)
Voltzberg
A distinctive granite mountain that rises from the rainforest and offers a breathtaking view over the treetops.
Central Suriname Nature Reserve — Raleigh Falls (Suriname)
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
One of the largest and most pristine tropical rainforest areas in the world, UNESCO World Heritage site.
🗺️
Wilhelmina Mountains
An impressive mountain range in central Suriname, named after a Dutch queen.
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Bakhuys Mountains
A mountain range in western Suriname known for its rich mineral deposits.