166 Suriname Travel Guide

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Country Overview

Suriname is a country located on the northeastern coast of South America. It borders the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south, French Guiana to the east, and Guyana to the west. It covers approximately 163,820 square kilometers and has a population of around 620,000 people. The capital city is Paramaribo, where a large portion of the population resides. Suriname is the only country in South America where Dutch is the official language.

Top Attractions

1. Paramaribo – Walking the Streets of Paramaribo
   The capital and largest city, Paramaribo, is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. The historic inner city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Dutch-style wooden buildings stand alongside mosques, synagogues, and churches. Walking through its narrow streets reveals a vibrant mix of culture and history.

2. Brokopondo Lake – Morning at Brokopondo Lake
   Located in central Suriname, this massive reservoir was created by a dam project and is known for its tranquil scenery. Mornings here are especially magical, with mist rising over the still waters as sunlight filters through. Locals often come here for fishing, boating, and swimming.

3. Brownsberg Nature Reserve – Exploring Brownsberg Nature Reserve
   About 130 km from Paramaribo, this reserve is a haven of tropical rainforest, waterfalls, lakes, and diverse wildlife. It is a premier bird-watching destination, with over 400 bird species recorded. Hiking through the forest offers a close-up experience of Suriname’s pristine nature.

4. Maroon Villages – Cultural Experience in a Maroon Village
   Descendants of escaped African slaves, the Maroons have preserved their distinct traditions in villages scattered throughout Suriname’s interior. Visitors can experience drumming, traditional dance, herbal medicine, and handmade crafts. It’s a unique window into Suriname’s resilient heritage.

5. Suriname River – Boat Trip on the Suriname River
   Flowing through Paramaribo, the Suriname River is a lifeline of daily life. From small wooden boats to commercial vessels, the river reflects the country’s rhythm. Boat rides reveal the harmony between colonial architecture and lush riverbanks, with sunset cruises offering especially beautiful views.

6. Central Suriname Nature Reserve
   A vast protected area in central Suriname spanning about 16,000 km². It includes virgin rainforest, rivers, mountains, and waterfalls. It is home to giant otters, jaguars, and vibrant parrots. Perfect for eco-travelers seeking untouched biodiversity.

7. Juliana Top (Mount Juliana)
   Suriname’s highest mountain at 1,280 meters. It is not easily accessible, but organized treks with guides offer an unforgettable journey. The area is almost entirely undeveloped, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the raw wilderness.

8. Surinamese Markets – Lively Scenes at a Surinamese Market
   Markets in Paramaribo and other towns are bustling centers of daily life. Tropical fruits, spices, textiles, handmade crafts, and traditional street food make for a colorful and sensory-rich experience. A great way to engage with the local culture.

Cuisine

Pom

Pom is a beloved national dish of Suriname, reflecting Jewish-Surinamese roots with African and European influences.

• Main Ingredients:

  • Tayer root (a local root vegetable)

  • Chicken

  • Orange juice

  • Garlic

  • Onion

  • Tomato

  • Herbs

  • Lemon juice

• Preparation:
  The tayer root is grated, and the chicken is seasoned and cooked separately with onion, garlic, and tomato. The meat mixture is then layered with the tayer paste, infused with orange juice and lemon juice, and baked until golden. The result is a savory, crispy-topped casserole traditionally served on special occasions.

Other Notable Dishes

• Roti: A flatbread served with curried chicken, potato, chickpeas, and egg – influenced by Indian cuisine.

• Pepresout: A spicy stew made with fish or meat, soy sauce, chili, and aromatic herbs.

• Satay: Skewered grilled meat served with peanut sauce – inspired by Indonesian cooking.

Language and Culture

The official language of Suriname is Dutch, used in government and education. In daily life, however, Sranan Tongo (a local Creole language) is widely spoken, along with English, Hindi, Javanese, and Chinese. The population is ethnically diverse, comprising African, Indian, Javanese, European, Chinese, and Indigenous peoples. Religious and cultural diversity is a hallmark of Suriname, where mosques, Hindu temples, and Christian churches often sit side by side.

Travel Tips

• Currency: Surinamese Dollar (SRD). Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is often necessary in smaller towns.

• Transportation: Minibuses are the most common form of public transport but can be unpredictable. Organized tours are recommended for remote areas.

• Climate: Suriname has a tropical rainforest climate. There are two rainy seasons (from April to August, and from December to January), so pack light rain gear if visiting during these periods.

• Health: Some areas may pose a risk of malaria; consult a travel doctor about preventative medication.

• Safety: Suriname is generally safe, though it's advisable to avoid isolated areas at night and to stay aware of your surroundings.

Visa Information

Many nationalities can enter Suriname with an eVisa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Some countries are visa-exempt. Always check the official immigration website or contact the nearest Surinamese embassy for up-to-date information before travel.

Time Zone

Suriname operates on UTC-3 and does not observe Daylight Saving Time.