Do you know theformer Dutch Guyana? Suriname, that tiny, little-known country in South America? Nestled between Brazil and French Guiana, it boasts incredible biodiversity and fascinating cultural diversity.

With the majestic Amazon rainforest covering 95% of its territory, Suriname is a paradise for nature lovers. This green sanctuary is home to ecological treasures, nature reserves and parks, prized by researchers and explorers alike. But that's not all: from the unspoilt beaches of Galibi, where leatherback turtles come to lay their eggs, to the majestic mangroves of Bigi Pan, populated by red ibises, each ecosystem is a marvel to behold. The program includes long canoe trips up the rivers, fishing for giant catfish and discovering the maroon villages scattered along the banks, where the sound of drums still resounds. This true ecological sanctuary boasts numerous reserves and parks, such as the Raleighvallen Conservation Center Nature Reserve, where nature lovers can listen to the song of the black cacique or observe the fascinating rock cock. Our Suriname tour guide will take you to the country's most beautiful hotels and guesthouses, as well as its most incredible sites.

Suriname is also distinguished by the richness of its multicultural, polyglot people. A melting pot of cultures, from Hindustani, Creole, Amerindian and Javanese to descendants of Dutch settlers and African slaves, live together peacefully. To meet these communities is to immerse yourself in their age-old traditions and understand their symbiosis with nature, like that of the Amerindians of the deep forests or the Black-Browns of the rivers.

The heart of the country also beats to the rhythm of its capital, Paramaribo, whose colonial architecture is reminiscent of Louisiana. The city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not just a testimony to the past. It's alive and kicking, with world-famous restaurants like the warungs, small Javanese establishments, a lively nightlife and casinos for all to enjoy. Fort Zeelandia, a witness to colonial history, and the Keizerstraat mosque, next to a synagogue, illustrate the country's cultural mix.

Don't miss Nieuw Nickerie, the second largest city, located near the border with Guyana. It's the ideal starting point for exploring the Nickerie district, with its vast rice fields and Bigi Pan, a birdwatcher's paradise. Albina, meanwhile, is the gateway to the magnificent Marowijne River, offering opportunities for unforgettable pirogue rides .

Suriname, small in size but big on surprises, awaits adventurers in search of the unusual.

What to visit Suriname?

When to go to Suriname?

When is the ideal time to discover Suriname, with its lively dances and lush Amazon rainforest?

Suriname has a typically equatorial climate: heat and humidity are the order of the day, with temperatures fluctuating between 20 and 30°C. There are two main seasons:

The first, which is milder, runs from late August to mid-November. If you're looking for mild weather, September and October are ideal.

However, the rest of the year, from mid-December to mid-August, the country experiences heavy rainfall. May and June are particularly wet, especially in eastern Surinam and the southern highlands. However, there is a respite between February and April. The rains are intense but not continuous. In the forest interior in particular, rainfall reaches 400 mm in May and June. In comparison, the northwest is a little less humid than the south and east, near French Guiana. If you're wondering when to discover Surinam, aim for the dry season for the best experience!

If you're dreaming of partying, opt for February or March - it's carnival time! Imagine yourself strolling the streets alongside the locals in their flamboyant costumes.

May to mid-August is the time to get away from it all! The days are clear, the sun is shining and the whole country seems to stretch out to welcome you. It's the perfect time to explore, but don't forget, the popularity of this period means slightly higher fares.

If you're more of a bargain-seeker and a little less crowded, August to November is your time! Yes, September is likely to be wet, but don't forget the superb landscape photos in the rain!

For a sweet end-of-year escape, mid-November to the end of January offers a great window of opportunity. The weather is mild, just before the rain starts dancing again.

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Weather at the moment

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Weather all year round

Surinam offers warmth and humidity all year round. The climate is typically equatorial. Temperatures in Surinam generally vary between 20 and 30°C.

Late August to mid-November is the high season, marked by a drier atmosphere, particularly in September and October.

From mid-December to mid-August is the low season, with heavier rainfall, especially in May and June, particularly in the eastern regions and southern heights. In February-March, Surinam's weather offers an interlude with less continuous showers. If you're planning a trip to the north-west, expect slightly lower humidity than in the south and east, near French Guiana.

The best time to travel to Surinam is during the dry season.

Jan.
22° / 29°
Feb.
22° / 29°
Mar.
22° / 29°
Apr.
23° / 30°
May
23° / 30°
June
23° / 30°
Jul.
23° / 31°
Aug.
23° / 32°
Sept.
23° / 33°
Oct.
23° / 33°
Nov.
23° / 32°
Dec.
22° / 30°
Budget

It's possible toexplore Surinam without breaking the bank! The local currency is the Surinamese dollar. Of course, like all currencies, its exchange rate can sometimes play leapfrog, but don't worry, you'll find plenty of cash in the big cities. But a word of advice: always keep a few bills in your pocket, especially if you want to sample the authenticity of more remote areas. As for payment, most places accept cards, but tips? A small gesture appreciated, but not obligatory. Whether you opt for a budget hostel, a comfortable hotel or a luxury establishment, Surinam will charm you without emptying your wallet. But remember, the real wealth here is in the experience!

Procedures

To enter Suriname, travelers must ensure that their papers are in order.

Since July 1, 2022, the tourist or family visa has been replaced by an entry fee of around €25 or $25. You can pay these amounts in different ways:

Directly online via the VFS portal.

By visiting the Suriname Consulate General in Cayenne or the consular office in Saint-Laurent du Maroni.

Travelers arriving from regions identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as areas at risk of yellow fever transmission must present a vaccination certificate. This applies both to those transiting for more than 12 hours and to those wishing to leave Suriname. Vaccination must be carried out at least 10 days before arrival in Suriname.

Health

Before setting off on your trip to Surinam, here are a few tips:

Vaccines and Surinam: if you are traveling to Surinam from a region at risk of yellow fever transmission, you must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Although this is the most commonly required vaccination, it's always a good idea to consult your doctor or an international vaccination center a few months before departure for specific advice and updates on other vaccinations that may be recommended.

Drinking water in Surinam: choose sealed bottled water rather than tap water. Even if tap water is treated in major cities such as Paramaribo, be cautious to avoid potential health problems. And remember to avoid ice cubes in your drinks, unless they are made from purified water.

Don't forget to take a basic first-aid kit with you, especially for minor everyday ailments.

How to go to Suriname? Our advice & tips

Suriname is an ecological treasure trove: opt for tours that highlight these riches, such as excursions to Brownsberg Nature Park or the Brokopondo districts. The country is also a blend of African, American, Javanese and Hindu cultures. Choose agencies that immerse you in this diversity, with visits to Maroon villages or local cooking sessions, for example. Paramaribo's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure your trip includes a visit to this area, as well as pirogue excursions or fishing trips. Sranan Tongo is widely spoken. A short introduction to this language will enrich your trip. Opt for agencies that work with local businesses. This not only supports the local economy, but also guarantees an authentic experience. Plan a means of communication with the agency or guide outside business hours, in case of emergency or need. And before committing yourself, read the feedback from previous travelers. This will give you an idea of what to expect!

Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destination

Travelling alone in Surinam is a singular experience. A country still largely unknown to traditional tourist circuits, it offers a rare authenticity. In Paramaribo, its capital, the rich colonial heritage is revealed around every corner. The tropical forests offer privileged encounters with exceptional flora and fauna. However, caution is advised, especially if you venture into remote areas. Preparing your itinerary well, asking the locals for information and respecting customs are essential. Alone, every interaction becomes an adventure, every discovery a unique memory. Surinam is an invitation to explore for solitary souls in search of the unexpected.

To get around Suriname, here are the means of transport you can use:

Buses, known locally asbussen"are one of the most popular ways of getting around Paramaribo.

In a country crossed by many rivers, getting around by water is a must. Pirogues, or"boten", are used to go from one bank to the other or to visit more remote areas less accessible by road.

Cabs are available in urban areas.

To explore the country, rent a car, but be careful during the rainy season, and be aware of the local way of driving!

Finally, for travel between towns or regions, there are"dienstbussen", a kind of minivan, which, although a little more expensive than traditional buses, offer a faster, more direct service.

Whatever you choose, always keep your budget in mind and look after your safety. And enjoy every mode of transport that offers a unique perspective on this surprising country.



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Pictures and images Suriname

Lodge d'Awarradam. MORGANE LESCOT
Kodebaku, juste avant un des sauts sur la Tapanahony. MORGANE LESCOT
Palais présidentiel de Paramaribo Mathieu DELMER
Fort Nieuw Amsterdam. JM-Guyon - Fotolia

Discover Suriname

When to travel?

When is the ideal time to discover Suriname, with its lively dances and lush Amazon rainforest?

Suriname...
Read more about it

Weather forecast

Surinam offers warmth and humidity all year round. The climate is typically equatorial. Temperatures in Surinam gener...
Read more about it

Budget

It's possible toexplore Surinam without breaking the bank! The local currency is the Surinamese dollar....
Read more about it

Formalities

To enter Suriname, travelers must ensure that their papers are in order.

Since July 1, 2022, the tourist...
Read more about it

Health

Before setting off on your trip to Surinam, here are a few tips:

Vaccines and Surinam: if you are...
Read more about it

How to travel by yourself?

Travelling alone in Surinam is a singular experience. A country still largely unknown to traditional tourist c...
Read more about it

How to get organized?

Suriname is an ecological treasure trove: opt for tours that highlight these riches, such as excursions to Bro...
Read more about it

Getting around

To get around Suriname, here are the means of transport you can use:

Buses, known locally asbussen...
Read more about it

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