10 Things to Do in Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, Paramaribo, Suriname



Nestled in the heart of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, is the historic and picturesque Fort Nieuw Amsterdam. Built in 1734, the fort was the first Dutch fort to be constructed on the South American continent. Today, it stands as a reminder of the country’s colonial past and is a popular tourist destination for those looking to explore and experience the culture and history of Suriname. Here are 10 things to do in Fort Nieuw Amsterdam:

1. Explore the Fort: Fort Nieuw Amsterdam is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Suriname. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its past, including its role in the country’s colonial history.

2. Visit the Museum: The Fort Nieuw Amsterdam Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the fort and the country’s colonial past. The museum features a variety of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the fort and its role in Suriname’s history.

3. Take a Boat Tour: Fort Nieuw Amsterdam is located on the Suriname River, and visitors can take a boat tour to explore the area. The boat tour will take visitors to the fort and other nearby attractions, such as the historic Dutch cemetery.

4. Go Birdwatching: The area around the fort is a great place to go birdwatching. The fort is surrounded by lush tropical forests and is home to a variety of species of birds, including toucans, macaws, and parrots.

5. Visit the Dutch Cemetery: The Dutch Cemetery is located near the fort and is a great place to learn more about the colonial history of Suriname. The cemetery is the final resting place for many of the Dutch settlers who came to Suriname in the 17th and 18th centuries.

6. Go Shopping: The nearby town of Paramaribo is a great place to go shopping. Visitors can find a variety of traditional Surinamese crafts and souvenirs, as well as international goods.

7. Visit the Presidential Palace: The Presidential Palace is located near the fort and is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Suriname. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the country’s current and past leaders.

8. Take a Hike: The area around the fort is great for hiking. Visitors can take a guided tour of the area and explore the lush tropical forests and wildlife.

9. Visit the Zoo: The nearby Paramaribo Zoo is a great place to learn about the wildlife of Suriname. The zoo features a variety of animals, including jaguars, sloths, and monkeys.

10. Enjoy the Nightlife: The nearby town of Paramaribo is a great place to enjoy the nightlife. Visitors can find a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs to enjoy a night out.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Fort Nieuw Amsterdam. Whether you’re looking to explore the area’s history and culture or just want to have a great time, there’s something for everyone in this historic fort.