Suriname Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Suriname with our comprehensive guide on places to visit, best things to do, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Suriname

Suriname is a small country located in the northeastern region of South America. It is known for its diverse culture, vibrant natural beauty, and colonial architecture. The official language is Dutch, but English and various Creole languages are widely spoken. Suriname is home to a rich culture with Indigenous, African, Asian, and European influences. It is a great destination for travelers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure and a cultural experience that is hard to come by in other parts of South America. In this guide, we will give you everything you need to know when planning your trip to Suriname.

List of Places to Visit in Suriname

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Suriname has a rich history, and there are a few historical and cultural places that should not be missed. The Fort Zeelandia, located in Paramaribo, is a colonial-era fort that has been converted into a museum. It showcases Suriname’s colonial history and houses an art gallery.

Another must-visit attraction is the Presidential Palace, also located in Paramaribo. The palace has a beautiful architectural design and was built-in 1730. You can take a tour to explore the grandeur and beauty of the palace.

Natural Attractions of Suriname: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Suriname is home to vast expanses of tropical rainforest and mangroves that house a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Brownsberg Nature Park is a popular tourist destination in Suriname for its natural beauty. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife and flora, as well as the mesmerizing Irene Falls. You can opt for hiking or bird watching tours.

Another popular attraction is the Central Suriname Nature Reserve. This reserve is a protected area with vast rainforests and savannas. It is home to countless species of animals and birds, and you can take a guided tour through the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Suriname

Suriname is an ideal location for adventure enthusiasts with numerous hiking and biking routes. One of the most beautiful hiking trails is the Raleighvallen Nature Reserve’s trail, which covers about 15 kilometers and passes through stunning rainforests, waterfalls and has multiple river crossings.

There are also plenty of biking trails, with the most famous one being the Lelydorp to Brokopondo trail, where you can bike through jungle-clad hills and picturesque landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Suriname: Activities and Tours

Visitors can enjoy various activities and tours throughout Suriname. For fishing enthusiasts, Suriname is a great destination known for its giant catfishes called “Tigers” found in the southern rivers. Guided fishing tours are available in the district of Nickerie, so don’t forget to take a fishing pole with you.

Another tour option is the bird viewing tour. Suriname has a diverse array of bird species, making it a top destination for bird watchers. You can take a guided tour to get the best views of the birds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Suriname

Here is a week-long itinerary to make the most of your trip to Suriname:

Day 1: Visit the Brownsberg Nature Park for a scenic hike and bird watching experience.

Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Central Suriname Nature Reserve.

Day 3: Visit the Fort Zeelandia museum and explore Paramaribo.

Day 4: Go on a fishing tour in the Nickerie district.

Day 5: Explore the Raleighvallen Nature Reserve hiking trail.

Day 6: Take a biking trail from Lelydorp to Brokopondo.

Day 7: Visit the Presidential Palace and explore Paramaribo’s colonial architecture.

Food and Drink Scene of Suriname

Must-Try Dishes

Suriname’s cuisine is a fusion of African, Dutch, Chinese, and Indian influences. The most famous dish of Suriname is definitely Roti. It’s a warm and chewy Guyanese flatbread served with flavorful curries made with beef, chicken, and vegetables.

Another must-try dish is Pom. It’s a baked dish made with cassava, chicken, and spices. It’s one of the most loved dishes in Suriname.

Local Beverages

The most popular beverage in Suriname is the Sorrel Drink made with hibiscus flowers, cinnamon, ginger, and sugar. You can try it everywhere in Suriname, from street vendors to restaurants.

Where to Stay in Suriname: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Suriname offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler and budget. Torarica Hotel & Casino is a luxury hotel in Paramaribo with great amenities. Moreover, if you prefer a budget-friendly option, the Guesthouse De Kleine Historie is a great option located near the popular tourist attractions.

What to Buy in Suriname: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Suriname is famous for its hand-carved wooden products such as wall ornaments and jewelry boxes. Moreover, if you’re looking to bring home something unique, you cannot miss their woven baskets. These baskets are made from the fibers of plants and possess intricate designs woven into them.

Local Culture and Customs of Suriname

Suriname is a diverse country, and the locals are warm, friendly, and welcoming. A few customs unique to Suriname are their love of expression through music and dance. Moreover, their cuisine, language, and religious beliefs blend African culture with Indo-South Asian cultures. Respect for others is a crucial value in Surinamese society.

Best Time to Visit Suriname

The best time to visit Suriname is between February to April or August to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, and there is a lesser chance of rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Suriname

Do:

  • Respect Suriname’s cultural diversity.
  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Take guided tours to explore natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Use drugs in Suriname. The country has stringent laws against it.
  • Don’t enter the forest without a guide.

Safety and Health

Safety in Suriname

Suriname is a safe country for tourists, but you need to be vigilant when exploring the cities or hiking through forests. Avoid exploring tourist hotspots and natural landscapes during the night. Similarly, avoid traveling alone in remote areas.

Health in Suriname

You should consult your doctor at least four weeks before your visit to Suriname. Make sure you get vaccinated for malaria, yellow fever, and other necessary vaccinations. It’s advisable to carry insect repellents to avoid insect bites.

Getting to Suriname: Transportation Options and Logistics

The most convenient way to get to Suriname is by air. Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport is the main airport in Suriname and is well-connected to major cities in the Caribbean and South America. Moreover, you can travel to Suriname through neighboring countries such as Guyana and French Guiana via road or boat.

Airports Near Suriname

  • Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport

Bus Stations Near Suriname

  • Paramaribo Central Bus Station

Other Options

Suriname has a vast network of waterways, making river travel a popular option. Local ferries are available that can take you to remote areas of the country.

How to Get Around in Suriname

The most convenient way to get around Suriname is by taxi or bus. Make sure you negotiate the fare before starting your ride as most taxis aren’t metered. Moreover, renting a car is also an option, but you require an international driving license to do so.

Where to Go Next from Suriname: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Don’t forget to explore Suriname’s neighboring countries after finishing your tour in Suriname. You can visit Guyana, Venezuela, and Brazil via land routes, or take a domestic flight to the Netherlands Antilles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Suriname is an excellent destination for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path adventure and a diverse cultural experience. With this guide, you now have everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Suriname, including the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and transportation options. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Suriname.

Fort Zeelandia was once the main stronghold of the Dutch colonial forces in the region. Fort Zeelandia was once the main stronghold of the Dutch colonial forces in the region. Visa policy of Suriname Visa policy of Suriname Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport The bridge across the River Suriname at Paramaribo was opened in 2000. Part of the East-West-Link, it's now the main connection to Crommewijne, making car ferries obsolete. Passenger ferries still cross the river, however, taking people across to Meerzorg. The bridge across the River Suriname at Paramaribo was opened in 2000. Part of the East-West-Link, it's now the main connection to Crommewijne, making car ferries obsolete. Passenger ferries still cross the river, however, taking people across to Meerzorg. Wooden houses in one of the jungle villages along the Marowine river Wooden houses in one of the jungle villages along the Marowine river Lake Brokopondo Lake Brokopondo Waterfall in Brownsberg Waterfall in Brownsberg $20 Surinamese banknote $20 Surinamese banknote The regional version of chicken masala, served with roti, is one of the most popular dishes in the country. The regional version of chicken masala, served with roti, is one of the most popular dishes in the country. Street scene in Nickerie Street scene in Nickerie


    East Coast
    Paramaribo
    West Coast