Suriname Anacondas

Logistics & Itinerary

Paramaribo

Day 1

The group meets at Eco Torarica in Paramaribo for dinner. This first evening is a chance to get to know one another, settle in, and receive a full introduction and briefing for the days ahead.

Coesewijne River

Days 2-3

We depart Paramaribo and transfer to the Coesewijne River, a tributary of the mighty Coppename that winds through extensive seasonally flooded swamp forest and primary jungle. Upon arrival we set up our hammock camp on the riverbank and begin exploring immediately. The riverbanks here are lined with Mauritia palms a key fruiting species that draws parrots, toucans, and monkeys. While the river itself supports one of Suriname’s most charismatic predators; the Giant River Otter! Seasonal fluctuations between wet and dry periods create rich habitat for breeding fish, reptiles, and amphibians alike. With luck, anacondas can be found basking in grassy patches, on exposed mudbanks, or draped across fallen trees overhanging the water. Each evening we take to the river by boat, scanning the banks and vegetation for Amazon Tree Boas (Corallus hortulana) and both caiman species that inhabit this system; Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus) and the Smooth-fronted Caiman (Paleosuchus trigonatus).

Marataka river

Days 4-5

After breakfast we break camp and transfer to the Maratakka River in the far west of Suriname a tributary of the Nickerie River that flows through vast stretches of seasonally flooded swamp forest. This river system is excellent anaconda habitat, with females regularly found basking in the sun exposed grass patches that line its banks. The majority of our boat searches will focus on these areas. With luck, other iconic wildlife such as manatees, Toco Toucans, Giant River Otters, and even Harpy Eagle may be spotted on the river!

The surrounding landscape of rice fields, swamps, and man-made canals creates ideal conditions for aquatic and adaptable snakes. Aquatic Helicops, smaller Anacondas, Rainbow Boa (Epicrates maurus), and Common Lancehead (Bothrops atrox) are regularly encountered here. At night we will conduct road cruising by vehicle in this area which is the most effective methods for encountering snakes in this unique landscape.

Fredberg

Days 6-7

After breakfast we transfer to Fredberg, a basecamp nestled beside a beautiful tributary of the Saramacca River. During the dry season, water levels here drop dramatically, often allowing us to walk directly through exposed sections of the riverbed at night in search of anacondas and caimans.The creeks and surrounding jungle support an impressive range of species. Emerald Tree Boas (Corallus caninus) and Amazon Tree Boas (Corallus hortulana) are found in the waterside vegetation, while Yellow-tailed Cribo (Drymarchon corais) and Red machete (Chironius scurrulus) can be encountered along the waterways.

With a great deal of luck, Rainbow Boa (Epicrates cenchria) and the legendary Bushmaster (Lachesis muta) may be found behind camp in the deeper forest. The Amazonian Horned Frog (Ceratophrys cornuta) can be encountered year-round with careful searching, making each night walk an unpredictable and exciting adventure. During the afternoons there is time to walk around camp and explore the jungle at a slower pace. Optional swimming in the creek is available for those who want.

Paramaribo

Day 8

After breakfast we depart Fredberg and make our way back to Paramaribo, stopping for lunch on the road. We arrive at Eco Torarica in the afternoon, where private rooms await. The trip closes with a final dinner together a fitting end to what will have been an unforgettable adventure.

A Note on Anaconda Encounters

While this expedition visits some of the most productive anaconda habitat in Suriname, it is important to understand that finding one is never guaranteed. Despite their impressive size, Green Anacondas are highly aquatic and favor murky water rendering them effectively invisible for much of the time. This trip has been timed specifically for the dry season to maximize our chances, when lower water levels and female basking behavior work in our favour. We do not handle or disturb anacondas encountered on the Coesewijne or Marataka Rivers. However, individuals encountered during road cruising or while hiking the Fredberg creek at night may be safely captured and handled at the guide’s discretion.

Accommodations

The expedition uses a comfortable mix of jungle camp and guesthouse accommodation suited to the remote nature of each location. Participants spend two nights sleeping in hammocks at a riverside camp on the Coesewijne River, four nights in shared rooms with beds at the Marataka and Fredberg locations, and two nights in private rooms at Eco Torarica in Paramaribo at the start and end of the trip.