Hermitage Mall, Suriname - Things to Do in Hermitage Mall

Things to Do in Hermitage Mall

Hermitage Mall, Suriname - Complete Travel Guide

Hermitage Mall is a residential area located in the Wanica district of Suriname, situated along the Suriname River southwest of Paramaribo. This quiet suburban community offers visitors a glimpse into local Surinamese life away from the bustling capital city, with tree-lined streets, modest homes, and a peaceful riverside setting that reflects the country's laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. While Hermitage Mall itself is primarily residential, its proximity to Paramaribo makes it an excellent base for exploring Suriname's rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and unique blend of Dutch colonial architecture, indigenous traditions, and multicultural influences. The area provides easy access to both urban attractions and natural experiences, including river excursions and visits to traditional villages along the Suriname River.

Top Things to Do in Hermitage Mall

Explore Paramaribo's Historic Inner City

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center of Paramaribo, featuring well-preserved Dutch colonial wooden architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries. Walk through the charming streets lined with traditional buildings, visit the iconic Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, and explore the bustling Waterkant waterfront area with its historic fort and government buildings.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but guided tours cost $15-25 per person and provide valuable historical context. Morning visits (8-11 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.

Suriname River Boat Excursions

Take a scenic boat trip along the Suriname River to experience the country's diverse ecosystems and visit traditional Maroon and indigenous communities. These excursions often include stops at historic plantations, wildlife spotting opportunities, and cultural demonstrations showcasing local crafts and traditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day river tours range from $45-80 per person including lunch and transfers. Book with established operators who provide life jackets and have experienced local guides. Dry season (August-November) offers the most comfortable conditions.

Central Market and Local Food Scene

Immerse yourself in Suriname's multicultural culinary heritage at Paramaribo's Central Market, where vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, spices, and local specialties. Sample traditional dishes like roti, pom (a casserole with root vegetables), and various Indonesian-influenced dishes reflecting the country's diverse population.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free, but food tours with tastings cost $25-40 per person. Visit early morning (7-9 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Bring small bills for purchases.

Jodensavanne Historical Site

Discover the ruins of this 17th-century Jewish settlement located about 50km south of Paramaribo along the Suriname River. Explore the remains of the synagogue, cemetery, and residential areas that tell the story of one of the earliest Jewish communities in the Americas.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $55-75 per person including transportation and guide. Tours typically run 6-8 hours with river transport. Book through reputable operators who provide historical context and ensure safe river travel.

Brownsberg Nature Park

Experience Suriname's pristine rainforest at this nature reserve located about 130km south of Paramaribo. Hike through primary forest trails, spot exotic birds and wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views from the plateau overlooking the Brokopondo Reservoir.

Booking Tip: Day trips range from $65-95 per person including transportation, guide, and lunch. Multi-day options with basic accommodation available for $120-150 per person. Book during dry season for best trail conditions.

Getting There

Hermitage Mall is located approximately 15km southwest of Paramaribo and is accessible by road via the East-West Connection highway. From Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, the journey takes about 45 minutes by taxi or rental car, costing $25-35 for a taxi ride. Public buses run regularly between Paramaribo and the Wanica district, with fares around $1-2, though travel times can be longer due to multiple stops.

Getting Around

Transportation around Hermitage Mall and to nearby attractions relies primarily on taxis, rental cars, or organized tours. Local taxis charge $10-15 for trips to central Paramaribo, while rental cars cost $35-50 per day and provide the most flexibility for exploring the region. Public buses connect to Paramaribo but run on irregular schedules. Many visitors arrange day tours that include transportation to major attractions, which is often more convenient and cost-effective than independent travel.

Where to Stay

Hermitage Mall residential area
Wanica district center
Paramaribo historic center
Paramaribo Waterkant waterfront
Leonsberg suburban area
Kwatta residential district

Food & Dining

The dining scene around Hermitage Mall consists mainly of local eateries and small restaurants serving traditional Surinamese cuisine, including Indonesian-influenced dishes, Creole specialties, and fresh seafood. For a wider variety of restaurants, including Chinese, Indian, and international cuisine, visitors typically head to nearby Paramaribo, which offers everything from street food stalls selling bara (fried bread with fillings) to upscale restaurants featuring fusion cuisine that reflects Suriname's multicultural heritage.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Paramaribo

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Garden of Eden

4.5 /5
(277 reviews)

Padre Nostro

4.6 /5
(111 reviews)
store

Sweetie Coffee Suriname

4.8 /5
(101 reviews)
cafe store

Don Julio

4.5 /5
(100 reviews)

When to Visit

The best time to visit Hermitage Mall and Suriname is during the dry seasons, which run from February to April and August to November. These periods offer less rainfall, lower humidity, and better conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The major dry season (August-November) is particularly ideal as it coincides with cooler temperatures and excellent conditions for river excursions and nature activities. While temperatures remain warm year-round (24-32°C), the reduced rainfall during these months makes travel more comfortable and reliable.

Insider Tips

Exchange money in Paramaribo before heading to Hermitage Mall, as ATMs and currency exchange services are limited in the residential area
Learn a few basic Dutch or Sranan Tongo phrases, as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist-focused businesses
Pack insect repellent year-round and rain gear even during dry seasons, as tropical showers can occur unexpectedly

Explore Activities in Hermitage Mall