Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Suriname Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Suriname – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Surinamese Dollar (SRD) £1 ≈ SRD 50.14 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common, especially in larger cities. Credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory in Suriname, but small tips are appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants and hotels. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally allowed in Suriname, though it is not as common as in private settings or licensed establishments. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, though smoking areas are designated in some outdoor locations. |
| Independence Day (25 November) |
Marks Suriname's independence from the Netherlands |
|---|---|
| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family and community events |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 115 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | |
| Other: | Suriname is known for its diverse cultural heritage, lush rainforests, and wildlife. It offers a blend of nature and colonial history. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Suriname, Suriname
Two dry seasons (February to April, mid-August to early December) and two rainy seasons (December to January, April to mid-August)
Leatherback and green turtle nesting at Galibi and Matapica February to August, peak April to June
December and January: Surinamese diaspora visits, flights and guesthouses fill early
Don't miss
- 🏙️ Explore the UNESCO-listed colonial streets of Paramaribo
- 🐬 Cruise the Suriname River and spot river dolphins
- 🌿 Visit Brownsberg Nature Park for rainforest hiking
- 🏛️ Tour the historic Fort Zeelandia and nearby museums
- 🍍 Discover local flavors at Paramaribo’s Central Market
- 🌅 Relax by the lakeshore at Brokopondo Reservoir
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Suriname?
What makes Suriname truly special is its remarkable combination of natural wonders and cultural diversity without the crowds found in more popular South American destinations. The country boasts an impressive array of ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to vast rainforests that cover nearly 80% of the land, home to jaguars, monkeys and hundreds of bird species. The UNESCO-listed historic center of Paramaribo showcases beautiful Dutch colonial buildings alongside mosques and synagogues, reflecting the country's unique cultural mosaic. Beyond the capital, adventures await in places like the Central Suriname Nature Reserve and Brownsberg Nature Park, where you can hike through pristine jungle, spot rare wildlife and cool off in refreshing waterfalls. For history enthusiasts, sites like Fort Zeelandia and Jodensavanne (one of the oldest Jewish settlements in the Americas) offer fascinating glimpses into the country's complex past. And throughout your journey, you'll encounter the genuine warmth of Surinamese people and savor the country's diverse cuisine, which blends influences from around the world.
🏯Places worth seeing
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Amazon Rainforest
This vast South American region spans from the Andes to the Amazon, featuring diverse landscapes, rich cultures and iconic cities like Lima, Bogotá and Quito that blend history with vibrant modern life. -
2
Akira Overwater Resort - Bigi Pan
-
3
Brownsberg Nature Park
-
4
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
-
5
Commewijne
-
6
Coppename Rivier
-
7
Palmentuin
-
8
Suriname
🛍️Shopping
-
1
Suri greens market
🎈Events
-
Independence Day Celebrations
-
Holi Phagwa
-
Suriname Jazz Festival
-
Divali
-
Carifesta
-
Maroon Day
-
New Year's Eve Celebrations
-
Eid al-Fitr
-
Emancipation Day
-
Javanese Arrival Day
Knowledge before you go
- Plan extra time: few roads, interior travel is slow.
- If heading into rainforest, go with an experienced guide and ensure evacuation-capable travel insurance coverage.
- Skip public minibuses; use reputable taxis and agree the fare before you get in.
- For remote villages and lodges, expect boats or chartered small planes; schedules can change last-minute.
How to travel to Suriname
Most international visitors arrive in Suriname through Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (also known as Paramaribo-Zanderij International Airport), located about 45 km south of Paramaribo. The airport has connections to Amsterdam, Miami and several Caribbean and South American cities. Upon arrival, taxis to Paramaribo cost approximately US$25 – 30 (£18.69 – 22.43). Suriname has recently implemented visa-free travel for 24 countries, making entry easier for many visitors. For those not on the visa-free list, visas should be arranged in advance through Surinamese embassies or consulates. Some travelers also enter Suriname by land from French Guiana or Guyana, though border crossings can be basic and transportation options limited.
Access summary
- Fly into Johan Pengel Airport (PBM) from Amsterdam/Caribbean; buses to Paramaribo.
- From Guyana/Fr.Guiana: Buses or ferries across borders to Paramaribo.
- Surinam Airways based at PBM; no alliance, regional/international flights.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Suriname
Accommodation in Suriname ranges from international hotels in Paramaribo to simple guesthouses and eco-lodges in more remote areas. In the capital, you'll find mid-range options starting around US$50 – 80 (£37.38 – 59.81) per night, while budget accommodations begin at US$20 – 30 (£14.95 – 22.43). For jungle experiences, specialized lodges in places like Brownsberg offer basic but comfortable rooms. When visiting interior regions, accommodations are often part of tour packages. During peak tourist seasons and festivals, booking in advance is recommended as options can be limited.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Suriname
Getting around Suriname requires some flexibility and patience. In Paramaribo, taxis are the most convenient option, costing SRD 7.50 (£0.15) for a short 10-minute ride. For longer journeys between cities, minibuses and shared taxis operate on main routes but have no fixed schedules. For exploring natural attractions like Brownsberg or the interior, organized tours with 4WD vehicles are recommended as road conditions can be challenging, especially during rainy seasons. River travel is also common, particularly for reaching remote areas or for scenic journeys along the Commewijne and Suriname rivers. Water taxis in Paramaribo offer an alternative way to navigate the city and are particularly useful for visiting Commewijne district across the river.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Suriname are around 34% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to SRD) is 31% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is considerably cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Suriname is generally safe for tourists, though petty theft can occur in urban areas. Exercise normal precautions, avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when using ATMs. The interior regions are very safe, but always travel with experienced guides when exploring remote areas.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities in Paramaribo are adequate for routine care but may not meet Western standards for complex issues. Facilities outside the capital are limited. Malaria is present in interior regions, so antimalarial medication is recommended when traveling beyond coastal areas.
Accessibility
Accessibility infrastructure in Suriname is limited. Major hotels in Paramaribo may offer basic accommodations for mobility-impaired travelers, but historical sites, natural attractions and public transportation present significant challenges. Advance planning and possibly hiring assistance is recommended.
Tap water
Tap water in Paramaribo is generally safe but may taste different due to treatment. In rural areas, stick to bottled or purified water. Bottled water is widely available and affordable at approximately $0.50 for a 0.5L bottle.
Packing recommendations for Suriname
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
🥾
Walking boots
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🪰
Insect repellent
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
for sun protection
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
👛
Cash in multiple currencies
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type C/F
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for Suriname
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