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Lelydorp

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City
—°3
Lelydorp (Suriname)
ℹ️

Practical info — Lelydorp

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Lelydorp is the heart of Suriname's Javanese community; exploring the local 'warungs' (eateries) is a must.
  • It's a convenient stopover if you are traveling between Paramaribo and the international airport.
  • Rent a car or use the frequent route buses (minibuses) to get around easily.
  • Mosquito repellent is essential, especially if you visit nearby parks or gardens.
  • Visit on a Sunday morning when the local market is at its most bustling.

🍽 Food

🍽
Saoto Soup

A flavorful Javanese chicken broth with bean sprouts and crispy potatoes. Find it at any local warung.

🍽
Bami & Nasi Goreng

Indonesian-style fried noodles and rice, a staple of the town's street food scene.

🍽
Pom

A traditional Surinamese Jewish/Creole baked root vegetable and chicken dish.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Lelydorp Market

Bustling market offering tropical fruits, Javanese snacks, and fresh vegetables.

🛍
Indira Gandhiweg stalls

The main road is lined with vendors selling snacks, syrups, and local plants.

🧘
Nature Parks

General nature areas nearby offer a serene environment filled with tropical plants.

🧘
Side streets off Indira Gandhiweg

Walk a few streets away from the main road to find quiet, leafy residential areas.

Lelydorp is the second-largest city in Suriname and the administrative capital of the Wanica District. Originally known as 'Kofidjompo', the city was renamed in 1905 to honor Cornelis Lely, a Dutch engineer who spearheaded the development of the regional railway system. Geographically, Lelydorp is strategically positioned on the primary highway connecting the capital, Paramaribo, with the Zanderij International Airport. The city has transformed from a small rural outpost into a bustling commercial and residential center. Its population is remarkably diverse, with significant Javanese and Hindustani communities shaping the local culture and cuisine. Lelydorp is well-known for its bustling markets and the Neotropical Butterfly Park, which attracts tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. As a critical transportation hub, the city plays a vital role in linking the inland regions of Suriname with the coastal administrative centers.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252626262625262628292826
Rain mm1661441312263212692161357371110186

Geography

Population
18,223 (2026)
Coordinates
5.69830, -55.23190

Facts

  • Lelydorp was officially renamed in 1905 after the Dutch engineer Cornelis Lely.
  • The city is located approximately 18 kilometers south of Paramaribo.
  • The original name 'Kofidjompo' translates to 'Kofi jumps' in English.
  • Lelydorp is home to the famous Neotropical Butterfly Park and insect museum.
  • It serves as a major agricultural supply center for the Wanica District.
  • The city was once a key stop on the Lawa Railway, which connected the gold mines.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Lelydorp (3)

Asmoredjo Satimin🌿 nature

A local viewpoint in Lelydorp offering views of the surroundings.

Djoewan Reginald🌿 nature

A viewpoint in Lelydorp providing a wide view of the landscape.

Martomamat Sadikin🌿 nature

An elevated point in Lelydorp with a view of the nearby area.

Frequently asked questions

What characterizes Lelydorp?
Lelydorp is known as a multicultural hub, often serving as a stopover on the way to the interior.
Is it worth a visit for tourists?
It is good for travelers who want to experience the authentic, rural Suriname beyond the capital.
What is the best way to get to Lelydorp?
Lelydorp is easily accessible by taxi or minibus from Paramaribo.
Are there accommodations?
There are some simple guesthouses, but most travelers visit as a day trip.
What is the best season?
The dry season from August to November is best for excursions.
Lelydorp: where is it located?
Lelydorp is located in Suriname.
Lelydorp: what is there to see?
Highlights include Asmoredjo Satimin, Djoewan Reginald, Martomamat Sadikin.
Lelydorp: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.
Lelydorp: why is it worth visiting?
Lelydorp is the second-largest city in Suriname and the administrative capital of the Wanica District.
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