Suriname essential info
This unexplored corner of South America is a haven for nature lovers. The brave can search for crocs, anacondas and piranhas lurking in Suriname's swamps and rivers
Suriname: Vital Statistics
Capital of Suriname: Paramaribo
Population of Suriname: 486,600
Languages in Suriname: Dutch, English, Sranang Tongo,
Time in Suriname: GMT -3
International dialling code in Suriname: +597
Voltage in Suriname: 127V 60Hz
Visa information for Suriname: Visa information
Money in Suriname: Surinamese dollar (SRD) Only one bank’s ATMs accept foreign credit cards. Credit cards can only be used in upmarket establishments.
Suriname travel advice: Foreign & Commonwealth Office
Suriname tourist board: Suriname
When to go to Suriname
With temperatures rarely straying far from an average of 26°C, the best idea is to plan your trip around rainfall levels. The wet season runs from mid April to August, when road travel is near-impossible. To catch the dry season, travel in late winter or early spring.
Suriname international airport
Paramaribo Zanderij (PBM)
Getting around in Suriname
There are few roads in Suriname, so don’t expect to be able to travel by car or public transport far from the coastal cities. To add complication, there are no scheduled internal flights, so chartering light aircraft is your best bet. Although this can be expensive it is, at least, a spectacular way to see the country. It is possible to travel by land from Paramaribo to the borders of Guyana and French Guiana by state-run buses, but routes, costs and departure times are liable to change at short notice.
Suriname accommodation
The majority of accommodation in Suriname ranges from homestays in private households, to larger, luxury hotels with price tags to match. Nature parks and reserves generally offer accommodation, although in many areas (especially Wia-Wia National Park) these tend to be basic.
Suriname food & drink
Suriname boasts an incredible array of cuisine. Staples include rice, black eye beans, and cassava. Chicken and meat are popular in a variety of methods, including Chinese, Creole, Amerindian and Indian. Pepperpot, an Amerindian-style meat stew, is a favourite. Locally-brewed Banks Beer and El Dorado Special Reserve are the tipples of choice.
Health & safety in Suriname
In common with its neighbours, Suriname has its fair share of crime, so exercise caution and common sense at all times. Be careful to avoid any overt displays of wealth and always seek advice from locals and other travellers. Be very careful in cities at night: muggings are common. Suriname has a pretty comprehensive selection of tropical ailments to offer: consult your GP about any required vaccinations or health precautions well in advance of your journey.