The Bushi Nenge, or Maroons, are descendants of African slaves who fled the plantations of Suriname in the 17th and 18th centuries. They developed a unique culture along the Maroni River.
History and origins
Fleeing slavery, these courageous men and women took refuge in the Amazon rainforest. They created autonomous communities, preserving their African traditions while adapting to their new environment.
Art and crafts
Bushi Nenge art is recognizable by its colorful geometric patterns, called "tembé". They can be found on canoes, paddles, houses, and everyday objects.
Meeting the communities
Several villages along the Maroni welcome visitors. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is the ideal starting point to discover this fascinating culture.