Suriname-3-day-itinerary

Suriname Itinerary: 3 Days of Adventure

Day 1: Paramaribo Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • 9:00 am: Visit the Fort Zeelandia, a historic fort that dates back to the 17th century. Explore the fort’s museum to learn about Suriname’s rich history.
  • 11:00 am: Walk through the vibrant Waterkant Market, where you can find local handicrafts, fresh produce, and try some traditional Surinamese cuisine like peanut soup or pom (a dish made from a type of palm fruit).
  • 2:00 pm: Head to the Palmentuin, a beautiful botanical garden with over 1,000 plant species.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants in the city center, such as ’t Vat or De Waag. Try some Surinamese specialties like roti (flatbread) with chicken or beef.

Day 2: Commewijne and Marowijne

  • 8:00 am: Take a day trip to the Commewijne River, which forms the border between Suriname and French Guiana. Enjoy a scenic boat tour and spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
  • 12:00 pm: Stop at the Marowijne River, where you can swim or relax on the riverbank.
  • 3:00 pm: Visit the Saramaka Maroon Village, where you can learn about the traditional way of life of the Saramaka people, a group of enslaved Africans who escaped and formed their own community in the jungle.
  • Evening: Return to Paramaribo and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Brownsberg Nature Reserve

  • 8:00 am: Depart for the Brownsberg Nature Reserve, a protected area with lush rainforest, waterfalls, and stunning views. Hike to the top of the reserve’s highest peak (450 meters) for breathtaking views.
  • 12:00 pm: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the reserve’s restaurant or bring your own food.
  • 3:00 pm: Return to Paramaribo and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city on your own.
  • Evening: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU nations, do not need a visa to enter Suriname. Check with the Surinamese embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: Taxis are widely available in Paramaribo, but you can also rent cars or take public transportation (buses) to get around.
  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but many people speak Sranan Tongo (a creole language) and English. You may also encounter other languages like Hindi and Javanese.
  • Currency: The Surinamese dollar (SRD) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs to withdraw cash.
  • Safety: Suriname is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Tips

  • Climate: Suriname has a tropical rainforest climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes.
  • Health: Vaccinations against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid are recommended. Take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
  • Respect Local Culture: Suriname is a culturally rich country with many ethnic groups. Be respectful of local customs, traditions, and the environment.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Paramaribo has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options like Hotel Palacio to more luxurious choices like Torarica Hotel & Casino.
  • Guesthouses: Consider staying at a guesthouse or B&B for a more homely experience. Options include Guesthouse Alberga and B&B De Hofstede.

Getting There

  • Flights: Fly into Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) from Amsterdam, Miami, or other major cities.
  • Airport Transfer: Arrange for airport transfers with your hotel or use a taxi service.