Dry Season
The dry season offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Suriname
Suriname, a small country on the northeastern coast of South America, is known for its rich cultural diversity, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. Beyond its capital, Paramaribo, travelers can explore stunning natural landscapes, historical sites, and unique culinary experiences.
WiDi · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best monthsAugust to November
- AirportsJohan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM)
- TransitBuses, taxis, and boats
- Power127V, Type C and F plugs
- Tipping10% is common
- LanguageDutch (English widely understood)
01
When to go
The best time to visit Suriname is during the dry season, which runs from August to November, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
The wet season brings heavy rains, making travel more challenging.
Transitional Season
The transitional months between wet and dry seasons can be unpredictable.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural hub
Paramaribo
The capital city with colonial architecture and a lively atmosphere.
Busy and vibrant, but can be noisy.
Nature escape
Brownsberg Nature Park
A nature reserve with stunning views and hiking trails.
Limited accommodations; book in advance.
Beach retreat
Domburg
A small village known for its beautiful beaches and tranquility.
Fewer amenities; ideal for relaxation.
Cultural mix
Albina
A border town with a unique blend of cultures and access to French Guiana.
Less touristy; experience local life.
Rural experience
Boven Saramacca
A rural area known for its agricultural landscapes and local communities.
Limited services; prepare accordingly.
Adventure spot
Brokopondo
Home to the Brokopondo Reservoir and opportunities for fishing and hiking.
Remote; ideal for nature lovers.
Cultural exploration
Marowijne
A region with rich indigenous culture and beautiful rivers.
Access may be challenging; plan ahead.
Eco-tourism
Kabalebo
A remote area known for its eco-lodges and pristine nature.
Limited access; book eco-lodges in advance.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Pom
A traditional Surinamese dish made with chicken and pomtajer.
→ Try it at local family gatherings or markets.
Roti
A flatbread served with various fillings, often enjoyed as street food.
→ Look for roti stands in Paramaribo.
Saoto Soup
A flavorful chicken soup with spices and vegetables.
→ Popular in local eateries and food stalls.
Bami
Fried noodles with vegetables and meat, a common dish in Suriname.
→ Often found in local restaurants.
Kip Saté
Grilled chicken skewers served with peanut sauce.
→ A must-try at street food vendors.
Sasa
A sweet dessert made from cassava and coconut.
→ Look for it at local bakeries.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Fort Zeelandia
A historic fort that offers insight into Suriname's colonial past.
Central Market
A bustling market where you can experience local life and cuisine.
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral
The largest wooden structure in the Western Hemisphere.
Commewijne River
A scenic river perfect for boat tours and wildlife spotting.
Brownsberg Nature Park
A stunning park with hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
Jodensavanne
A historical site of a former Jewish settlement.
Peperpot Nature Park
A nature reserve with walking trails and rich biodiversity.
Palmentuin
A beautiful palm garden in the heart of Paramaribo.
Maroon Village of Aponibic
Experience the culture of the Maroon people.
Suriname River
A major river offering boat tours and fishing opportunities.
Ananas Museum
Learn about the history of pineapple cultivation in Suriname.
Tafelberg
A flat-topped mountain offering breathtaking views.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
International Arrivals
Most international flights arrive at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM).
PBMJohan Adolf Pengel International Airport
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights connect Paramaribo with other regions, making travel convenient.
Public Transport
Buses and taxis are available for local travel, while boats are common for river transport.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available in Paramaribo for those who prefer to drive.
Boat Tours
Explore the waterways of Suriname through organized boat tours.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are used; voltage is 127V.
Cash
Local currency is the Surinamese dollar; cash is widely accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is common.
Language
Dutch is the official language; English is widely understood.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of 7 to 10 days is recommended to explore the highlights.