MileHacker Logo
Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

The Guianas

Central Suriname Nature Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest protected rainforest areas globally.

Coastal Mangroves

Essential for coastal protection and marine life, these ecosystems receive protection.

Local Community Involvement

Conservation efforts frequently involve local communities in management and protection.

Protecting Natural Resources

Thoughtful actions lessen your environmental footprint.

Waste Management & Recycling

Waste management infrastructure in Suriname is developing. Recycling facilities are limited, especially outside Paramaribo.

Reduce Your Waste

  • Minimize your waste generation.
  • Carry out what you carry in, especially when visiting remote areas.
  • Avoid single-use plastics wherever possible.
  • Consider Package Free Shop for reusable products.

Water Conservation

While Suriname has abundant freshwater resources, responsible water use is always encouraged.

Water Use Awareness

  • Be mindful of your water usage during your stay.
  • Conserve water, especially in eco-lodges or areas with specific water sources.
  • Support water-saving initiatives in accommodations.
  • Water resources are a valuable natural asset.

Carbon Offset Options

While not widely available locally within Suriname, travelers can choose to offset their flight emissions through international programs.

Mitigate Environmental Impact

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Look for lodges and tour companies that demonstrate eco-tourism practices.

Sustainable Choices

  • Utilize solar power or other renewable energy sources.
  • Implement effective waste disposal and composting systems.
  • Employ and train local staff from surrounding communities.
  • Discover options at Ecobnb for eco-friendly stays.

Sustainable Outdoor Gear

Ethical Apparel

Choose gear from companies committed to sustainability and responsible practices.

Explore Patagonia's sustainable gear.

Responsible Adventures

Select tour operators that practice ethical tourism and support local conservation.

Discover G Adventures tours.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engaging with local cultures warrants mindfulness.

Respectful Interaction

Learning basic Dutch or Sranan Tongo shows respect for local languages and frequently cultivates genuine interactions.

Interactions

  • Learn basic phrases.
  • Dress modestly, especially in traditional communities.
  • Practice patience; life often moves at a different pace.
  • Always greet locals when entering a shop or boarding a bus.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before photographing people, specifically children. Be discreet and avoid intrusive photography.

Privacy Concerns

  • Respect their decision if they decline a photo.
  • Ask permission before photographing inside religious buildings.
  • Photography may be restricted or prohibited in government/military sites.
  • Avoid intrusive photography, especially in private or sacred settings.

Supporting Local Economies

Your travel choices have a direct economic impact on local communities.

Direct Support

Prioritize staying in local guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and shopping at local stores.

Fair Trade

Seek out artisan markets or specific shops that clearly state their commitment to fair trade principles.

Community Benefit

This approach means economic benefits from tourism flow directly to local people. Consider The Rainforest Site.

Responsible Choices

Conscious decisions in travel, shopping, and interaction foster a positive and beneficial experience for both visitors and local communities.

Charitable Giving & Awareness

Responsible engagement extends to how you contribute to local communities.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of tours or activities that might exploit animals or local people.

Ethical Travel

  • Avoid tours or activities that exploit animals.
  • Do not give money directly to children on the street.
  • Direct handouts may discourage school attendance.
  • Choose ethical animal encounters.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to contribute, do so through established local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, or community projects.

Sustainable Aid

  • Support local NGOs.
  • Support schools or community projects.
  • Aid reaches those most in need in a sustainable way.
  • Avoid direct handouts for long-term benefit.

Community Empowerment

Direct Support

  • Purchase from local artists and artisans.
  • Fair prices for local producers.
  • Direct contributions to established local initiatives.

Cultural Preservation

  • Supporting local crafts aids cultural continuity.
  • Tourism revenue can strengthen local communities.
  • Ethical tour operators often focus on community benefits.

Community Engagement

Supporting local communities creates a lasting positive impact beyond your visit.

Positive Impact

  • Choose accommodations that employ local staff.
  • Purchase authentic souvenirs directly from artisans.
  • Dine at locally owned restaurants.
  • Opt for local guides for tours.

Cultural Immersion

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions to enrich your travel experience.

Deepening Connections

  • Learn basic phrases in Dutch or Sranan Tongo.
  • Participate in local festivals or events (with permission).
  • Practice ethical photography, always asking permission.
  • Show appreciation for local music and dance.

Important Ethical Advisory

Direct Giving

Direct giving to individuals on the street, especially children, may create unintended negative consequences.

Channel Contributions

Channel contributions through reputable local organizations for more sustainable impact.

Final Sustainable Thought

Travel thoughtfully, engage respectfully, and leave a positive footprint on Suriname's people and environment.