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Hazard Plantation

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Hazard Plantation in the Nickerie District was a significant center for sugar cane cultivation in western Suriname during the 19th century. Located near present-day Nieuw-Nickerie, it benefited from fertile coastal sediments and an elaborate system of polders and dikes. Following the decline of the sugar industry in the late 19th century, the land was successfully converted for large-scale rice cultivation, which continues to define the economic character of the region today. Die Geschichte von Hazard ist eng mit der Migration von Vertragsarbeitern aus Indien verbunden, die nach 1873 die mühsame Arbeit auf den Feldern übernahmen und die Grundlagen für den heutigen Wohlstand Nickeries legten. Many of the original drainage systems and sluices are still in operation, testifying to the long-term planning of colonial engineers. Today, the former plantation area is part of one of the most productive agricultural zones in the Caribbean, known for its high-quality export rice. Hazard remains an important point of reference for local identity and the agricultural tradition in the northwest of the country.

Location: Suriname
Nearby: Bigi Pan (12 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	27	27	26	26	27	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	133	109	103	149	261	234	228	146	65	64	89	180

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The former sugar cane plantation Hazard is located in rural Nickerie district with no restored buildings. The land is freely accessible, but there are no visitor facilities or marked trails.

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Typical hours

As this is open land, there are no opening hours. A visit is possible at any time during daylight.

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Photography

Photography of the landscape and remaining ruins is allowed. Avoid entering adjacent private properties.

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Time needed

A walk around the extensive grounds takes about 30 to 45 minutes. For a thorough exploration, allow one hour.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a detour to the nearby town of Nieuw Nickerie. The rice fields along the coast are also worth seeing.

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Getting there

The site is accessible by car via the road from Paramaribo to Nickerie; the drive takes about 3 hours. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to unpaved roads.

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Insider tip

Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no supply points in the area. Wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing for the uneven terrain.

Geography

Coordinates

5.91600, -56.96600

Facts

Established in the 19th century as a prominent sugar estate.
Located in the fertile coastal region of the Nickerie District.
Transitioned to large-scale rice farming in the late 1800s.
Developed significantly after the arrival of Indian laborers in 1873.
Features a historical system of drainage polders and dikes.
Now part of one of Suriname's most vital rice-exporting regions.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bigi Pan Nature Reserve3 km · NEExplore →

Port of Nieuw Nickerie4 km · SEExplore →

Bigi Pan12 km · NExplore →

Skeldon19 km · SExplore →

Corentyne River19 km · SExplore →

Whim38 km · SEExplore →

Rose Hall Sugar Estate41 km · SEExplore →

Black Bush Polder41 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Hazard Plantation (1)

Nieuw Nickerie📍 landmark

Nieuw Nickerie is a town in western Suriname, located near the mouth of the Nickerie River.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Plantage Hazard?

Plantage Hazard is a historical estate typical of Suriname's colonial agricultural history.

Can one visit the old buildings?

Many buildings are dilapidated or private; viewing should only be done with permission or a guide.

Is there information about the history on-site?

There are few official information panels, so a guide with historical background is recommended.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Visit the site in the morning to avoid the midday heat.

Is the site accessible?

No, the terrain is often uneven and not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

Hazard Plantation: where is it located?

Hazard Plantation is located in Suriname.

Hazard Plantation: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.

Hazard Plantation: why is it worth visiting?

Hazard Plantation in the Nickerie District was a significant center for sugar cane cultivation in western Suriname during the 19th century.

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