Albina
Marowijne
Albina is a town located in eastern Suriname, serving as the capital of the Marowijne District. Positioned on the west bank of the Marowijne (Maroni) River, it faces the French Guianan town of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, connected by a frequent ferry service. Founded in 1846 by August Kappler, who named it after his wife Albina Josefine Liezenmaier, the town grew from an abandoned indigenous village into a small but vibrant community by the early 20th century. Albina has a rich cultural heritage influenced by indigenous peoples, Maroons, and settlers. The town suffered significant destruction during the Surinamese Interior War (1986–1992), which also caused a refugee crisis into French Guiana. Despite this, Albina remains a key transit point and gateway for tourists visiting nearby natural attractions such as Galibi, famous for its sea turtles. The town also hosts a small airport and maintains boat connections to surrounding villages. Albina’s notable residents include Suriname’s Vice President Ronnie Brunswijk, a former rebel leader.
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Tip: The best time to visit Albina is during the dry season to enjoy ferry rides and boat trips to nearby villages like Galibi. It is advisable to check ferry schedules in advance and consider purchasing tickets early during peak travel periods. Visitors interested in turtle watching at Galibi should plan trips during the nesting season. While in Albina, local markets and cultural sites offer authentic experiences. Travelers should also be aware of the town’s history and remain respectful of local communities.
Interesting facts
- •Albina was named after the wife of its founder, August Kappler.
- •The town lies directly opposite Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana, connected by ferry.
- •Albina has a small airport with a 650-meter asphalt runway in operation since 1953.
- •The nearby village of Galibi is renowned for sea turtles that migrate globally to lay eggs on its beaches.
- •Albina was heavily affected during the Surinamese Interior War, including attacks on army barracks in 1986.
History
Albina was founded on December 13, 1846, by German settler August Kappler, who named it after his wife.
Initially an abandoned indigenous village, it developed into a small town with a medical clinic by 1913.
In 1986, Albina became a focal point during the Surinamese Interior War when the Jungle Commando attacked the army barracks, leading to armed conflict and significant destruction.
The war caused many refugees to flee into French Guiana.
In 2009, Albina experienced riots involving local Maroon inhabitants and foreign gold prospectors, highlighting ongoing social tensions.
Despite these challenges, Albina has remained a vital border town and administrative center.