Document checklist for Suriname

• Visa or Entry Fee (if applicable)
• Valid passport
• Return or onward ticket
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)

Essential Suriname travel information

Currency – The country’s official currency is the Suriname dollar (SRD). A US dollar is equivalent to around 35 SRD.

Daily budget for 1 person – SRD 1,790 (US$50).

Languages – Dutch is the most frequently spoken language in Suriname.

Socket type – A, B, C, and F types. The voltage is 110/220 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz.

Time zone – Suriname Time (GMT-3).

Top 3 cities – Paramaribo, Lelydor, and Brokopondo.

Top 3 landmarks/monuments – Fort Zeelandia, the Roman Catholic Saint-Peter-and-Paul Basilica of Paramaribo, and Galibi Nature Reserve

Typical costs and budget for Suriname

Daily spending – SRD 1,790 (US$50) per person.

Meals – around SRD 360 (US$10) per meal at a restaurant

Transport – SRD 360 (US$10) per day.

Hotel – around SRD 1,080 (US$30) per night.

The typical cost of a one-week trip for two persons to Suriname is SRD 25,000 ($700).

Transport and the best ways to travel around Suriname

Since Suriname is covered in a sizable amount of jungle, getting around alone might be challenging.

Frequent buses and minibuses to important cities and towns are available from Paramaribo’s primary bus terminal. In most cases, fares are reasonable. In metropolitan areas, taxis are also commonly accessible. They are practical for group travel or going to and from the airport.

Rural regions are frequently traversed by boat. Visits to Maroon and Amerindian settlements, boat cruises to the old plantations along the Suriname River, and river tours to observe animals and the characteristic mangrove woods are some of the most well-liked boat excursions in Suriname.

Those who wish to tour the nation at their leisure may also choose to rent a car. A current international driver’s license is required.

Safety in Suriname

Suriname is usually regarded as a safe place to travel with a low crime rate compared to other nations in the region. Visitors should be aware of various safety risks, especially in metropolitan areas like Paramaribo, as they are in any country.

After nightfall, stay away from strolling alone in the Waterkant neighborhood of Paramaribo since there are more crimes on the streets.

Use only authorized taxis, and constantly haggle the cost before boarding.

When traveling outside urban areas, especially in the rainforest or along rivers, be aware of wildlife and potential hazards such as strong currents. Always use a reputable boat company when traveling on rivers.

Weather in Suriname

The ideal time to travel to Suriname is from late August to early December when it’s dry season. Rainforest and interior areas of Suriname, including rivers and streams, are often at lower altitudes, making them simpler to travel through.

Visitors should be ready for sporadic downpours even during the dry season. The ideal months are from February to August if you want to witness sea turtles breeding on the beaches.

Must do and see in Suriname

Discover Galibi Nature Reserve: The green, Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, and Large Leatherback sea turtles, four of the eight marine turtle species found worldwide, all call the reserve home.

Visit the capital city of Paramaribo: Visit the famous wooden St. Peter and Paul Cathedral in the medieval city center and wander along the lovely Waterkant promenade.

Relax on one of Suriname’s beautiful beaches: Enjoy swimming, water sports, sunbathing, and watching sea turtles lay their eggs during the nesting season.

Typical Surinamese food to try

Saoto Soup – The soup’s ingredients include chicken broth, vermicelli noodles, a boiled egg, and herbs and spices, including lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. It is a typical street snack in Suriname, making it an easy and delectable lunch.

Pom – A baked casserole with chicken, salted fish, and spices like garlic, onion, and pepper is a classic Surinamese meal. Beans and rice are frequently served alongside it.

Roti – It is a well-liked meal in Suriname that has Indian origins. It comprises flatbread prepared from wheat, water, and oil stuffed with curried chicken, lamb, or vegetable filling.