Palmentuin

The Palmentuin runs behind the Presidential Palace in the middle of Paramaribo, a formal grove of tall royal palms in rows with paths under them, laid out in the colonial period and named in the UNESCO inscription as an element of the historic inner city. Capuchin monkeys live in the crowns and parakeets come in noisily at dusk. It is the city's main piece of shade and open green. The garden dates from the earliest years of the town, when it was laid out as the governor's grounds behind the residence.

What you actually see

• The palm rows - tall royal palms in formal lines with paths beneath.
• The monkeys - capuchins living in the crowns of the trees.
• The dusk parakeets - the birds coming in noisily in the evening.
• The palace backdrop - the Presidential Palace along one side.

When to go

Year round. Early morning and dusk are coolest and best for the wildlife. Rain showers come through in the wet seasons.

Honest expectations

It is a park and an hour covers it. Parts can feel unkempt. It is best avoided after dark.

Nearby

Fort Zeelandia is beside it, and Independence Square is in front.