South America
Suriname
Small, multicultural and Dutch-speaking, with a UNESCO-listed wooden capital and vast rainforest. Easygoing and fairly safe, but tourism infrastructure is thin and the interior needs organised trips.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa24 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencySRDUS$1 ≈ SRD37.75Details
- Price level31%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English4/5Widely spoken
- PlugsType A, B, C, F127 V, 60 HzDetails
- Emergency115Police 115 · Ambulance 113 · Fire 110 · All emergencies 115
- Tap waterFilter or boilParamaribo's mains water is treated and many locals drink it; use bottled or filtered water in the interior.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalTolerant but discreet; Paramaribo has a small scene and Pride events.Details
- Internet183 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 64 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the leftCarry an International Driving Permit with the home licence; rental firms may set higher age limits. Drive on the left.
Where to go in Suriname
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ParamariboCapital city | 3/5 | $662–1,060 | Feb–Mar, Aug–Oct | 91/100 |
When to visit Suriname
The main dry season runs mid-August to November, with a short dry spell in February–March. Rains peak May–August, when the north floods.
Good to know
Entry
- Most visitors pay an online entry fee (about USD 50) before travel; some nationalities need an e-visa instead.
- Fill in the online Immigration and Customs Form up to three days before arrival and again before departure.
- A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a risk country.
- Bring US dollars or euros to exchange; British pounds and many other currencies can't be changed.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Drug offences bring severe penalties; pack bags personally
- Overstaying or working without a permit is illegal
Etiquette
- Hindu, Muslim, Christian and Maroon traditions coexist; dress modestly at temples and mosques
- Ask before photographing people in Maroon and Indigenous villages
- Greet shopkeepers before asking anything; Dutch, Sranan or English all work
Tipping
About 10% in restaurants if service isn't included; small tips for guides, boatmen and drivers.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Suriname
- Suriname e-visa and entry fee portal
- Speedtest Global Index: Suriname
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.