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About this trip
Braamspunt and Sea Turtles
Braamspunt is a naturally formed beach of sand and shells, which has become visible since 2012. It emerged after the well-known Matapica laying beach disappeared due to land loss and sand and clay particles flowed westward with the current. Turtles have been coming to the beaches of the Surinamese coast for years to lay their eggs. Which is especially interesting for students and nature lovers to experience.
As knowledge about the animals is not widespread, most people do not know that only 10 out of 1000 eggs will develop into adult sea turtles.
In Suriname we have organizations such as our government, WWF Guianas and Green Heritage Fund Suriname which aims to create awareness among the communities and to protect these endangered species.
What’s included
- TransferBoat transport from Leonsberg to Braamspunt
- TourguideAn experienced tour guide with essential equipment such as a med kit and binocular
- Untitled ItemSnacks such as chips and fruit.
- Untitled ItemCold non-alcoholic drinks such as fruit juices, water, and carbonated drinks. Guests are allowed to place their own drinks in the cool box.
- Untitled ItemA hot dinner (usually roti, saoto or rice dishes)
What’s not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- TransferTransfer from hotel to Leonsberg
Available Packages
Available options
Itinerary
From Leonsberg we board the boat around 17:00 pm and go on the Suriname River, past the Commewijne district to Braamspunt. Along the way, we see Fort Nieuw Amsterdam, the confluence of the Suriname and Commewijne rivers, mangrove forests, many coastal birds, and maybe even dolphins and squirrel monkeys. Sailing from Leonsberg to Dianastrand takes about 1.30 hours.
The sea turtle season starts around the end of January and ends in July. Every month of the turtle season is special but the month of June is even more interesting for going to the beach because 2 of the four species of turtles come to lay their eggs and there is also the chance to see hatchlings crawling on the beach.
Once we are on the beach we wait until nightfall to look for the turtles. In the meantime, you can explore the beach, get a tour from the guide, have something to eat, or just relax. A certain time is also agreed in advance to gather at the boat for dinner.
As soon as it is dark, the group is called together and the guide gives a short explanation about the turtles and how they build nests and lay eggs. Furthermore, the rules of the WWF are also reviewed and agreements are made. One of the most important agreements is that only red lights may be used at night on the beach. The guide always carries a flashlight that emits red light. When the guide is ready, the adventure begins. We're going to look for turtles!
When we have experienced the whole