Communities · Upper Suriname River
Jaw Jaw
Upper Suriname River
Jaw Jaw is an authentic Saramaccan Maroon village along the Upper Suriname River, operating under traditional community leadership (Village Captain and Basjas).
Local rules
Visitors must show respect for local cultural norms and traditions. Always seek permission from local guides or village elders before taking photographs or videos of residents, especially children, elders, or traditional shrine areas. Swim only in designated river rapids (sula) or areas recommended by local guides to avoid strong river currents. Respect quiet hours during evening times and adhere strictly to eco-tourism guidelines regarding waste disposal and forest conservation. Connectivity & Offline Use: Cellular network coverage (Telesur and Digicel) in the Upper Suriname River region can be weak, intermittent, or absent depending on exact location and local power availability. Visitors must download all offline maps, emergency contact numbers, travel documents, and medical details prior to departing Paramaribo or Atjoni.
Nearest help
Medische Zending Jaw Jaw: +5978826216
Last verified 2026-10-08 · version 2
Confirm the exact meeting point with your operator.
- Coordinates
- 4.424353, -55.373905
Save essential contacts before departure. Agree who checks your arrival and how to communicate if mobile reception is lost.
Safety protocols to read before you travel
A01Guided activitiesUse a guide who knows the route and explains the safety arrangements.
Choose a guide through an established operator and ask about route experience, training, equipment and emergency arrangements. Follow the safety briefing, stay with the group and do not undertake an unfamiliar activity alone. Stop when conditions become unsafe.
Version 1 · Reviewed 2026-12-15 · Source SCSD project Revised Deliverable 2 and Workshop 1 protocol guidance
A02Jungle excursionsStay on known trails, share the route and carry essential supplies.
Stay on marked or known trails, tell someone the intended route and carry water, communications and a basic first-aid kit. Avoid excursions during severe weather.
Version 2 · Reviewed 2026-12-15 · Source Rev. - DELIVERABLE 2 REPORT - Tourism Awareness&Saferty SCSD project.docx, section 3.3; draft pending TCT/PIU approval
A03Water recreation and river hazardsCheck physical hazards and fresh-water health risks before an activity.
Ask the guide about currents, rocks, water levels and safe access before any water activity. Wear suitable flotation equipment for boating. Do not dive into unfamiliar water or enter rapids to swim or bathe, and keep children under close supervision. CDC advises avoiding swimming in unchlorinated rivers, lakes and ponds in Suriname because fresh water can carry infections. A locally designated swimming spot does not establish water quality.
Version 1 · Reviewed 2026-12-15 · Source SCSD project Revised Deliverable 2 and Workshop 1 protocol guidance; https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/suriname
A04Wildlife awarenessDo not approach or feed wildlife; report dangerous sightings.
Do not approach or feed wildlife and do not handle unknown plants or animals. Keep a safe distance and report dangerous wildlife sightings to the guide or responsible local contact.
Version 1 · Reviewed 2026-12-15 · Source Rev. - DELIVERABLE 2 REPORT - Tourism Awareness&Saferty SCSD project.docx, section 3.3; draft pending TCT/PIU approval