Palmentuin

The Palm Garden, or "Palmentuin", is a lush green oasis in the heart of Paramaribo, located directly behind the Presidential Palace. The park is world-famous for its hundreds of towering royal palms, which create a majestic atmosphere and provide essential shade on hot tropical days. Its origins date back to the 17th century when it was established as a private garden for the Dutch governor of the colony. Since the early 20th century, the garden has been open to the general public and has evolved into a beloved gathering spot for both locals and tourists. As an integral part of Paramaribo's historic inner city, the Palmentuin is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park also features several monuments and play areas for children, making it a versatile space for all generations. Particularly impressive is the sight of the palms themselves, some of which reach heights of over 25 meters. Birds and small wildlife find a protected habitat within the dense vegetation right in the center of the city. The Palmentuin is not just a botanical highlight but also a place of peace and reflection. Many visitors find solace on the benches under the giant palm fronds, escaping the bustle of the nearby urban center for a quiet moment. It remains a living monument to Surinamese horticultural art and history.

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

Independence Square

The historic center of Paramaribo, surrounded by important government buildings.

Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral

An impressive wooden church in Paramaribo and the largest of its kind in South America.

Paramaribo Central Market

The largest indoor market in the Caribbean, known for its diversity of goods.

Neveh Shalom Synagogue

A historic synagogue in Paramaribo, famous for its sand floor.

Ahmadiyya Mosque

An important mosque in the capital, standing peacefully next to a synagogue.

Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge

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

Arya Dewaker Temple

A magnificent Hindu temple in Paramaribo with unique octagonal architecture.

Commewijne plantations

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

More places

Presidential Palace

A splendid colonial architectural building that today serves as the official seat of the President of Suriname.

DP World Paramaribo

An area in the main port managed by the global port operator DP World.

Geyersvlijt

Originally an 18th-century coffee plantation, the lands of which are today a densely populated district.

Surinaamse Brewery

The largest brewery in the country and maker of the famous Parbo Beer.

Fernandes Bottling Company

The official bottler for Coca-Cola in Suriname and producer of the popular Fernandes soft drinks.

Staatsolie Tout Lui Faut Refinery

The only oil refinery in Suriname, operated by the state oil company Staatsolie.

Peperpot Plantation

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

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Clevia Plantation

A historic plantation near Paramaribo that played an important role in colonial times.