If you take a boat trip on the Suriname or Commewijne River late in the afternoon, you’ll likely hear a sudden, soft pffft sound. Look closely, and you’ll see a grey fin arching out of the dark water. You’ve just met the Profosu the unique dolphin of Suriname.

While most people think of the ocean when they hear “dolphins,” our river dolphins are a special part of the local ecosystem. Here is why spotting them at sunset is an experience you’ll never forget.

What Makes the Profosu Special?

The official name of these dolphins is the Guiana Dolphin (Sotalia guianensis). In Suriname, we affectionately call them Profosu.

  • They Love the River: Unlike their cousins in the deep sea, these dolphins love “brackish” water the mix of salty sea water and sweet river water.
  • Pink Bellies: One of the most charming things about them? Their bellies are often a soft, light pink!
  • Social Creatures: They usually swim in small groups of three to ten. They are very curious and sometimes even follow the boats, leaping out of the water to “say hello.”

The Magic of the Sunset Tour

The best time to see them is in the late afternoon. As the tropical heat starts to fade, the dolphins become more active, hunting for fish near the riverbanks.

Watching them against the backdrop of a Surinamese sunset is breathtaking. The sky turns shades of deep orange and pink, reflecting on the calm water, while the dolphins play around your boat. It’s the perfect, peaceful end to a busy day of sightseeing.

Where is the Best Place to See Them?

The most popular spot is the mouth of the Suriname River, near the historic plantation of Leonsberg or across the water at Frederiksdorp. Small, comfortable wooden boats (tours) leave from these spots daily.

Tips for a Great Dolphin Tour:

  1. Be Patient and Quiet: Dolphins are sensitive to loud noises. If you stay quiet and calm, they are more likely to come close to the boat.
  2. Camera Ready: They move fast! Keep your camera on “burst mode” or “action mode” to catch that perfect shot of a fin or a jump.
  3. Bring Binoculars: Sometimes they play a bit further away near the mangroves. Binoculars help you see their playful behavior up close.
  4. Support Sustainable Tourism: Choose a tour guide who respects the animals by keeping a safe distance and not feeding them. This keeps the dolphins healthy and happy in their natural home.

Why You Should Go

There is something deeply calming about being on the water at the end of the day. The cooling breeze, the sound of the birds returning to the mangroves, and the graceful movement of the Profosu make this one of the most “Surinamese” experiences you can have.

Ready to meet the pink-bellied locals? Grab a cold drink, hop on a boat, and let the Profosu surprise you!

Book your trip here via our tour booking link

Dolphin Spotter’s Checklist:

  • Sunscreen & Sunglasses: The reflection of the sun on the water is very strong, even late in the day.
  • Light Jacket: It can get a bit breezy and cool on the water once the sun goes down.
  • A Cold Parbo Beer: Many tours offer snacks and drinks it’s the classic way to enjoy the sunset!