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Park · Paramaribo, Paramaribo
Brownsberg Natuurpark
Nature park on a forest plateau about 500 meters above sea level, overlooking the Brokopondo lake, with trails to waterfalls, monkeys and birds. It is about 130 km from Paramaribo by road.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Brownsberg Natuurpark
The Brownsberg Nature Park is in the Brokopondo district, inland Suriname, about 130 km from Paramaribo by road. Protected since 1969, it covers 12,000 hectares of tropical forest on the Mazaroni plateau, and the top of Brownsberg rises to about 500 meters. It is administered by Suriname's nature conservation foundation, STINASU.
From the top of the plateau you can see Brokopondo lake, a large reservoir on the Suriname River, with the dead tree tops still rising from the water and forest to the horizon. Near the lookout are the visitor center, a restaurant and guest cabins.
The trails descend through the forest to waterfalls, like Leo, and to cold streams. Along the way monkeys often appear, such as howler monkeys, heard at dawn, as well as toucans, macaws and other birds. The forest is humid and mist is common in the early morning.
Brownsberg can be visited on a day trip from Paramaribo, but it's more rewarding with an overnight stay to do the trails early and hear the forest at night. The final road, unpaved, climbs from the village of Brownsweg.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day; with an overnight stay, two days.
Best time
In the driest season, from September to November, the trails are usually in better condition. Leave early in the morning to see the wildlife. From April to July the rains make the paths slippery.
How to get there
It is about 130 km south of Paramaribo by road, passing Brownsweg, from where an unpaved road climbs to the plateau. You can go by four-wheel-drive vehicle, on an organized tour or with transport arranged through the park administration.
Tip
Stay overnight in the park to do the waterfall trail at dawn. Bring closed shoes, a raincoat, insect repellent and a flashlight. Book accommodation in advance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Brownsberg Natuurpark
Can you do Brownsberg as a day trip from Paramaribo?
Yes, if you leave early, but the park is more rewarding with an overnight stay to do the trails at dawn.
What can you see from the top of Brownsberg?
The Brokopondo lake, a large reservoir on the Suriname River, surrounded by forest.
What animals are seen in Brownsberg?
Monkeys, like howler monkeys, toucans, macaws and other birds commonly appear on the trails, especially early.
Do I need a vehicle with four-wheel drive for Brownsberg?
The final dirt road climbs up from Brownsweg and requires a vehicle with four-wheel drive. Many people go on organized tours.