Discover the rich Jewish heritage of Suriname on the Jodensavanna Cultural Tour. This immersive 4-hour experience takes visitors to the historic Neveh Shalom Synagogue, the old Jewish Cemetery, and a local plantation. Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring Surinamese specialties, then relax by the Suriname River. But the tour doesn’t end there – explore the influence of the Jewish community and learn about the region’s indigenous villages. Get set for a captivating cultural journey.
About Your Stay
- Explore the historical Jewish community in Suriname by visiting the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, Jewish Cemetery, and Jodensavanna Plantations.
- Enjoy a traditional Surinamese lunch at the Overbridge Resort along the Suriname River, with an opportunity to swim in the river.
- Gain insights into the cultural legacy and economic influence of the Jewish community during colonial times in Suriname.
- Discover the architectural and historical significance of the Jewish-owned sites, with knowledgeable guides providing detailed explanations.
- Enhance the culture experience by learning about the indigenous villages and traditions in Suriname.
Tour Overview
The Jodensavanna Cultural Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich Jewish heritage in Suriname. Priced from $92.83 per person, the tour lasts about 4 hours, starting at 9 AM with a maximum group size of 16 travelers.
Highlights include visiting the synagogue, old cemetery, and a historic plantation. Lunch is provided at the Overbridge Resort, where guests can swim in the Suriname River.
The tour also includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced English or Dutch-speaking guide. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are available, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers.
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Exploring Jewish Culture in Suriname
Why has Suriname, a small South American country, become a hub for exploring Jewish culture? The country’s unique historical ties to the Jewish diaspora have resulted in a vibrant Jewish community and cultural heritage. Suriname was a Dutch colony, and the Jewish population first arrived in the 17th century, fleeing persecution in Europe. Today, visitors can discover the legacy of Suriname’s Jews by visiting the historic synagogue, the old Jewish cemetery, and plantations that were once owned by Jewish families. The Jodensavanna Cultural Tour offers an immersive experience to uncover this fascinating aspect of Suriname’s diverse society.
| Key Jewish Sites in Suriname |
|—|—|
| Neveh Shalom Synagogue | Built in 1719, it is one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. |
| Jewish Cemetery | Established in the 1600s, it contains the graves of Suriname’s early Jewish settlers. |
| Jodensavanna Plantations | Once owned by prosperous Jewish families, these plantations showcase the community’s economic influence. |
| Jewish Museum | Exhibits artifacts and historical information about Suriname’s Jewish heritage. |
Visit to the Synagogue, Old Cemetery, and Plantation
One of the first stops on the Jodensavanna Cultural Tour is the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, built in 1719 and one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere.
Guests explore the synagogue’s historic architecture and learn about its role in the Surinamese Jewish community.
Next, the tour visits the old Jewish cemetery, where gravestones dating back to the 18th century provide insights into the community’s history.
The final plantation stop showcases the remnants of a former sugarcane plantation, giving participants a glimpse into Suriname’s colonial past.
Throughout, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating details about Jewish life and culture in this unique South American country.
Lunch at Overbridge Resort
After exploring the historical Jewish sites, the tour continues to the Overbridge Resort along the Suriname River. Here, travelers enjoy a leisurely lunch with stunning river views. The menu includes a variety of local dishes, refreshing beverages, and fresh fruits.
| Menu Items | Description |
| — | — |
| Surinamese Roti | Flatbread served with curried chicken or vegetables |
| Saoto Soup | Traditional chicken and vegetable soup |
| Freshly Caught Fish | Grilled with local spices |
| Homemade Lemonade | Refreshing citrus drink |
| Tropical Fruit Platter | Assortment of seasonal fruits |
Following the meal, guests have the opportunity to swim in the Suriname River, providing a refreshing break from the day’s activities.
Swimming in the Suriname River
After finishing their hearty lunch, guests are invited to take a refreshing dip in the Suriname River.
The calm, inviting waters beckon visitors to cool off and relax. Guests can wade into the river, swim, or simply lounge on the banks, taking in the scenic views.
The calm, inviting waters beckon visitors to cool off and relax. Guests can wade, swim, or lounge on the banks, taking in the scenic views.
The river’s tranquil setting provides a peaceful respite from the day’s activities. Towels are available, and guests are encouraged to bring their bathing suits to make the most of this rejuvenating experience.
Swimming in the Suriname River is a highlight of the Jodensavanna Cultural Tour.
Learning About Local Indigenous Villages
As the cultural tour progresses, guests now have the opportunity to learn about the local indigenous villages that dot the Suriname landscape.
The guide provides insights into the diverse cultures and traditions of these communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life. Guests may learn about:
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Traditional housing structures and building techniques
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Unique artisanal crafts and textiles
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Medicinal plants and traditional healing practices
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Ceremonial customs and spiritual beliefs
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Subsistence farming and foraging activities
This cultural exchange enriches the tour experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the indigenous heritage of Suriname.
Inclusions and Pickup Information
The Jodensavanna Cultural Tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience. Lunch, snacks, fruit, soda/pop, non-alcoholic drinks, and bottled water are all provided. Transportation is also included, with an air-conditioned vehicle to transport the group. Experienced English or Dutch-speaking guides will lead the tour, and all fees and taxes are covered.
| Pickup Points | Pickup Time |
| — | — |
| Courtyard by Marriott | 08:15 am |
| Torarica Resort | 08:35 am |
| Purity Tours & Services | 08:55 am |
| End point: Returns to the meeting point | |
The tour offers round-trip hotel transfers or the option to meet at a designated spot. Guests are advised to bring recommended items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and comfortable shoes.
Additional Details
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for the Jodensavanna Cultural Tour.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking for the Jodensavanna Cultural Tour.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers. Infants must sit on laps during the experience.
Recommended items to bring include:
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Sunscreen
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Sunglasses
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Mosquito repellent
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Comfortable shoes
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Camera
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
With a maximum group size of 16 travelers, this culture experience in Suriname promises an intimate and memorable journey.
Questions About Your Stay
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. The provided Additional Information mentions that visitors are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the cultural sights and experiences.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The package includes lunch, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s best to rely on the provided refreshments to fully enjoy the cultural experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour is open to all ages, though infants must sit on laps. There are no specific age restrictions. Anyone interested in exploring the Jewish culture and scenic Suriname River can join the tour.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary cannot be customized. It’s a pre-set tour package that includes specific activities and sights. Travelers can request minor adjustments, but major changes to the itinerary are not possible. The tour operates on a fixed schedule and structure.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Customers can reserve now and pay later. A full refund is available if the tour is cancelled.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The Jodensavanna Cultural Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Suriname’s rich Jewish heritage. Visitors can enjoy the history, culture, and traditions of the local Jewish community, while enjoying a delightful lunch, swimming in the Suriname River, and learning about the indigenous villages. This captivating tour provides a comprehensive and insightful experience for those interested in discovering the multicultural tapestry of Suriname.