Suriname

Suriname formerly known as ''Dutch Guiana'' is the smallest sovereign state in South America where multicultural heritage and biodiversity come together unspoiled. The territory with the motto ''Justice-Duty-Loyalty'' has its name derived from the Surinen, a group inhabiting the region before the European arrival. Apart from the protected areas and the multiple national parks found here, Suriname a former plantation colony transformed into a country heavily dependent on agricultural work.

A Country of Picturesque

The smallest independent country of South America borders French Guiana to the East, Guyana to the West, Brazil to the South and the Atlantic Ocean to the North. Suriname can be divided into two main geographical areas, the North characterized as the coastal area and the South covered almost entirely by pristine rainforests. The small state with its capital at Paramaribo, stretches on almost 165, 000 square kilometers (64, 000 square miles) and has a population of about 490, 000 inhabitants.

Diversity comes in flora and fauna but also through the different geographical features. Besides rainforest and an opening to the ocean, Suriname has two main mountain ranges and many crystal clear waterfalls.

Diversity to Enjoy

The territory of Suriname was disputed among the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. Known as ''Dutch Guiana'' the territory used slavery during the 17th century in the plantations of coffee, cocoa, sugar cane or cotton. By 1863, slavery was abolished but the country relies even today on agriculture. Manual labor has been a reason for multiculturalism and ethnic diversity in the past as people from the Dutch East Indies, India, China and the Middle East were brought to work the plantations. Today, Suriname is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. Even in the capital city Paramaribo the multicultural heritage is evident and it is one of the few places in the world where a synagogue is situated next to a mosque. The multitude of ethnic festivals celebrate and keep tradition alive.

Paradisiac Beauty

30 percent of Suriname's area is protected by law and 12,6 % of the total surface is represented by national parks and lakes. The virgin biodiverse Amazonian rainforests of the Central Suriname Nature Reserve have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The tropical climate enhances the amazing views of the Julianatop, the highest mountain in the country, the pure Raleigh Falls or the Brokopondo Reservoir, home of one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.

Visit the smallest state in South America, an appreciated country for its richness observed in the geographical features, historical context and very diverse culture.