Must See

Paramaribo

This 17th-century capital, set on the northern Atlantic coast of South America, has a unique blend of European and Asian influences. There are some lovely Dutch colonial buildings, together with the main Mosque and 19th-century Roman Catholic Katherdraal, which is made entirely of wood. The nearby restored Fort Zeelandia houses the Suriname Museum.

Other attractions include the lively market and waterfront districts, the Presidential Palace (with an attractive palm garden), the Presidential Palace and Palmentuin - a pleasant park. Afterwards, enjoy some of the city's varied dining choices - take your pick of Indian, Creole, Chinese or Javanese cuisine.

Galibi Nature Reserve

World famous as a nesting site for endangered sea turtles, with four species coming ashore for mass nesting - namely the green sea turtle, the leatherback, the olive ridley and the hawksbill. The reserve, only accessible by boat, is characterised by its great biological diversity and by Amerindian villages where you can purchase Carib Indian artwork.

Kasikasima

Conquer Mount Kasikasima after a five-day trip along the Tapanahoni and Palumeu Rivers, hiking through unspoilt rainforest.

The Rainforest

Suriname comprises 80% rainforest, with numerous species found croaking and cawing high up in the canopy. The forests are also home to indigenous peoples. Enjoy one of the world's most unspoilt habitats, before logging and other human activity destroys it.

Fishing

Suriname is best explored by boat and its 3,000 kilometres of rivers offer some great fishing. Anglers should head for the Palumeu resort, where local Amerindians act as guides and teach visitors their traditional fishing techniques. Catches can include catfish, tarpon and peacock bass.