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Bird paradise of Bigi Pan
Discover the bird-rich Bigi Pan on the west coast of Suriname. Akira Overwater Resort is located in the heart of this protected nature reserve, surrounded by mangroves and open water. The comfortable lodges on the water offer a unique overnight stay in the middle of nature.
With more than 120 bird species, this is a true paradise for nature lovers. Explore the area by boat and enjoy stunning views from the birdwatching tower. With some luck, you may spot the red ibis, osprey, heron, jacana and various migratory birds.
Book your stay at Akira Overwater Resort Bigi Pan and experience the peace, nature and unique beauty of this special area.
Highlights/Activities
Advice from Insiders
Shanifa
For an unforgettable stay in nature, the Akira Overwater Resort in Bigi Pan is an excellent choice. This resort offers unique overwater lodges with modern amenities, combined with the comfort and tranquility of nature. Guests can enjoy spectacular views from their private veranda, in the middle of the vast Bigi Pan nature reserve. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, the highlight of which is the bright red ibis. Ideal for nature lovers looking for a luxurious and serene experience in one of Suriname’s most beautiful nature reserves.
Inclusive/Exclusive
Inclusive
Exclusive
Tour Information
Program
🦩 2-day tour (excluding transfer)
Day 1 – Arrival in Bigi Pan
After arriving in Nickerie, you travel by boat to the resort. As soon as you step on the boat, you leave the busy world behind and enjoy the surrounding nature. Upon arrival, you are warmly welcomed and your stay begins in the heart of the nature reserve. Around sunset, you head out on the water for one of the most beautiful moments of the day. During the evening excursion, keep your eyes open for reptiles.
- Boat transfer (approx. 45–60 minutes)
- Welcome drink
- Lunch
- Sunset bird tour
- Dinner
- Evening boat excursion (caiman and snake spotting)
Day 2 – Early bird experience
Life in Bigi Pan starts early. During the morning tour, you will see birds leaving their resting places as the area comes alive. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed morning before returning.
- Sunrise bird tour
- Breakfast
- Free time, kayaking or relaxing
- Lunch
- Return boat transfer
🦩 3-day tour (including transfer)
Day 1 – Arrival in Bigi Pan
Same as the 2-day tour, including boat transfer, welcome, and evening excursion.
Day 2 – Bigi Pan at ease
With an extra day, you have more time to enjoy the area. In the afternoon, you take a boat trip through the wetlands and, depending on the season, visit migratory bird resting areas.
- Sunrise bird tour
- Breakfast
- Free morning (kayaking, relaxing, optional crab catching)
- Afternoon boat tour
- Seasonal visit to bird resting areas
- Dinner
Day 3 – Enjoy and departure
- Breakfast
- Time to relax or birdwatch
- Return boat transfer
- Transfer to Paramaribo
Important to know
- Optional activities (like crab catching) require prior reservation
- Flamingos and red ibises are usually visible from October to April
- Mud baths depend on season and weather conditions
- This tour can be combined with a Maratakka tour
Travel details & Prices
ℹ️ Travel details
Transport
2-day tour:
- Own transport or shuttle possible
- Transfer price: €80 p.p.
- Optional sightseeing: €15 p.p. extra
- Transfer by local driver (no official guide)
3-day tour:
- Bus transfer from Paramaribo included
Departure & travel times
- Departure Paramaribo: between 07:00 – 08:00
- Travel time to Nickerie: approx. 4 hours
- Boat transfer to Akira: approx. 45–60 minutes
- Return at jetty: around 12:30
Private boat charter possible for €80.
Prices per person
| Duration | Adults | Children (3–15) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-day tour (Paramaribo) | €375 | €325 |
| 2-day tour (Nickerie) | €235 | €190 |
| 3-day tour (Nickerie) | €335 | €295 |
Children up to 2 years stay free.
Pick-up location & time
Check-in at the jetty around 12:45 – 13:00
Frequently Asked Questions
Packing list
🎒 What to bring for your trip to Bigi Pan
For a comfortable and well-prepared experience, we recommend bringing:
🧳 Luggage & documents
- Weekend bag or backpack (no suitcases due to boat transport)
- Passport (required for checkpoints)
- Small backpack
- Waterproof bag
👕 Clothing & footwear
- Good walking shoes (closed)
- Slippers or sandals
- Long pants and long-sleeved shirt
- Light clothing
- Swimwear
- Rain jacket or poncho
☀️ Protection & care
- Hat or cap
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Toiletries
- Towel (not for outdoor use)
📸 Extras & useful items
- Camera or phone + power bank
- Water shoes
- Cash (SRD, EUR or USD)
Accommodation
Orange Travel takes you to a place where peace and nature come together. As soon as you arrive, you immediately feel the relaxed atmosphere. The sound of the wind over the water and the open views help you disconnect from daily life.
The 17 detached lodges are built over the water and combine comfort with a unique nature experience. Each lodge has air conditioning and runs on solar energy.
For families, a spacious family lodge is available.
Facilities at Akira Overwater Resort
| Facility | Availability | |
|---|---|---|
| Air conditioning | Available | ✅ |
| Fan | Available | ✅ |
| Hot water | Not available | ❌ |
| Wardrobe | Not available | ❌ |
| Hangers | Not available | ❌ |
| Towels | Available | ✅ |
| Mosquito net | Not available (not needed, AC rooms) | ❌ |
| Balcony / Terrace | Available | ✅ |
| Electricity (110V) | 24/7 solar energy | ✅ |
| Power outlets | EU & US | ✅ |
| Sanitary facilities | Private bathroom & toilet | ✅ |
Restaurant by the water
Enjoy your meals at the waterfront restaurant. Fresh dishes are prepared daily with local ingredients.
Dietary requirements such as vegetarian or gluten-free can be arranged in advance.
Departure date
Departure from a minimum of 2 persons
3-day tour from Paramaribo
- Departure days: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
- Single supplement: €35 per night
- Extension: €80 per day
- Proof of residency required
2 & 3-day tours from Nickerie
- Departure days: Daily (based on availability)
- Single supplement: €35 per night
- Extension: €80 per day
- Proof of residency required
General information
Curious about what else Orange Travel has to offer? Complete your trip to Suriname with our versatile range of day & multi-day tours and fully catered tours!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes this experience unique?
At Akira, it’s all about being close to nature without sacrificing comfort. You wake up above the water, surrounded by birds and tranquility, while enjoying air conditioning and a private bathroom.
What makes it special:
- 🌅 Untouched nature directly from your lodge
- 🧘 True relaxation and digital detox
- 🛏️ Comfortable, sustainable stay
- 🚤 Remote location, only accessible by boat
- 👨👩👧👦 Personal hospitality
Akira is not just a hotel, it is an experience.
Where is Bigi Pan located?
Bigi Pan is a protected nature reserve in western Suriname, near Nickerie, known for its wetlands and birdlife.
What is Akira Overwater Resort?
A unique eco-resort built over the water, offering comfortable lodges with air conditioning and private bathrooms in the middle of nature.
Can I drive there myself?
Yes, you can drive to the jetty. Your car can be parked safely there.
What wildlife can I see?
You may spot herons, pelicans, ospreys, caimans, and many migratory birds. Bigi Pan hosts up to 122 bird species.
Is it suitable for children or less mobile guests?
- Children: welcome
- Limited mobility: not all areas accessible, check in advance
How much free time is there?
Guests experience plenty of personal time to relax or explore.
What if it rains?
Rain is part of the tropical climate and usually short. Tours continue, and guides adjust where needed.
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