GlobLeo Travels

Suriname [Country Info]

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Things to know about Suriname before your next travel

Suriname is a country that often flies under the radar for many travelers, but it’s a place that’s full of surprises. This small nation on the northeastern coast of South America is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and diverse landscapes that range from pristine rainforests to bustling cities. Let’s dive into what makes Suriname a unique and exciting destination for adventurous travelers.

Where is Suriname located?

Suriname is situated on the northern coast of South America, bordering Brazil to the south, French Guiana to the east, and Guyana to the west. It faces the North Atlantic Ocean to the north. Despite being part of the South American continent, Suriname is culturally considered part of the Caribbean region due to its history and cultural influences. The country covers an area of about 163,820 square kilometers (63,250 square miles), making it the smallest independent country in South America.

Explore Suriname

A Brief History of Suriname

Suriname’s history is a complex tapestry of indigenous cultures, European colonization, and African influences. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Arawaks and Caribs. In the 17th century, European powers began to take an interest in the region, with the Dutch eventually establishing control.

The Dutch brought enslaved Africans to work on sugar, coffee, and cotton plantations. After the abolition of slavery in 1863, the Dutch brought indentured laborers from India, Java, and China to work on the plantations. This diverse mix of people and cultures has shaped Suriname’s unique identity.

Suriname gained independence from the Netherlands in 1975 but experienced political instability in the following years, including a period of military rule. Today, Suriname is a democratic republic with a growing economy based on its natural resources and increasing tourism sector.

Landscapes and Geographical Regions

Suriname’s landscape is dominated by tropical rainforest, which covers about 80% of the country. The coastal region, where most of the population lives, is a narrow strip of low-lying land with mangrove swamps and mudflats. As you move inland, the landscape changes dramatically.

The country can be divided into four main geographical regions:

  1. Coastal Plain: This low-lying area along the Atlantic coast is where most of Suriname’s population and agricultural activities are concentrated.
  2. Savanna Belt: Just south of the coastal plain, this region consists of sandy soils and grasslands.
  3. Tropical Rainforest: The vast interior of Suriname is covered in dense, pristine rainforest, home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species.
  4. Highlands: In the south and southwest, the land rises into hills and low mountains, including the Wilhelmina Mountains, which contain Suriname’s highest peak, Julianatop, at 1,280 meters (4,199 feet).

Tourism in Suriname

Tourism in Suriname is still developing, but the country offers a wealth of attractions for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The capital city, Paramaribo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique Dutch colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the historic inner city, visit Fort Zeelandia, or stroll through the Palm Garden.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Suriname’s interior. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve, another UNESCO World Heritage site, protects nearly 1.6 million hectares of pristine tropical forest. Visitors can take guided tours to spot diverse wildlife, including jaguars, giant river otters, and over 400 bird species.

For a cultural experience, travelers can visit Maroon villages along the Upper Suriname River or indigenous communities in the south. These visits offer insights into traditional ways of life and the opportunity to purchase authentic handicrafts.

Adventure seekers can enjoy activities like river rafting, hiking, and wildlife spotting in places like Brownsberg Nature Park or Galibi Nature Reserve, known for its sea turtle nesting sites.

Surinamese Cuisine

Surinamese cuisine is as diverse as its population, reflecting influences from African, Indian, Indonesian, Chinese, and Dutch culinary traditions. This unique blend results in a flavorful and exciting food scene that’s unlike anywhere else in the world.

One of the most popular dishes is roti, a flatbread served with various curries and vegetables, reflecting the Indian influence. Another favorite is pom, a festive dish with Creole roots, made from pomtajer (taro root) and chicken. For street food, try some bara (fried split pea flour balls) or bakabana (deep-fried plantain).

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some of Suriname’s tropical fruits, many of which are unique to the region. The diversity of flavors and culinary traditions makes eating your way through Suriname an adventure in itself.

Population and Demographics

As of 2022, Suriname’s population was estimated at around 632,638, making it one of the least populous countries in South America. Despite its small size, Suriname boasts an incredibly diverse population, reflecting its complex history of indigenous inhabitants, European colonization, African slavery, and Asian immigration.

The population is concentrated mainly in the coastal areas, particularly in and around the capital city, Paramaribo. The country’s ethnic makeup is a mosaic of different groups, including East Indians (also known as Hindustani), Maroons (descendants of escaped African slaves), Creoles, Javanese, mixed-race individuals, indigenous Amerindians, Chinese, and smaller communities of Europeans and other groups.

This diversity is reflected in Suriname’s religious landscape as well, with Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and indigenous beliefs all coexisting. This multicultural mix gives Suriname a unique and fascinating social fabric, where different traditions and customs blend and coexist.

Language in Suriname

The official language of Suriname is Dutch, a legacy of its colonial history. It’s used in government, education, and media. However, the linguistic landscape of Suriname is far more complex and interesting than this might suggest.

Sranan Tongo, an English-based creole language, serves as a lingua franca and is widely spoken across different ethnic groups. Depending on their background, many Surinamese people also speak languages related to their ethnic heritage. These include Sarnami Hindustani (related to Hindi), Javanese, various Maroon languages like Saramaccan and Aukan, and indigenous Amerindian languages.

English is widely understood, especially in the tourism industry, and many Surinamese people are multilingual. This linguistic diversity is a point of pride for many Surinamese and adds to the country’s unique cultural character.

Travel Safety in Suriname

Suriname is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, but as with any foreign country, it’s important to exercise common sense and take standard precautions. The crime rate is relatively low compared to many other countries in the region, but petty theft can occur, especially in urban areas.

When visiting Paramaribo or other cities, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuable items openly and be cautious when using ATMs. In the interior, the main risks are related to the natural environment – always follow your guide’s instructions and take necessary precautions against insects and sun exposure.

It’s advisable to drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues. When venturing into the interior, make sure to use reputable tour operators and inform someone of your plans. Overall, most visitors to Suriname have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Emergency Numbers:

  • Police: 115
  • Fire Department: 110
  • Ambulance: 113

Currency Used in Suriname

The official currency of Suriname is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD). It replaced the Surinamese guilder in 2004, with one dollar being equal to 1,000 guilders. The Surinamese dollar is divided into 100 cents.

As of February 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 35.10 SRD to 1 USD, but exchange rates can fluctuate, so it’s best to check current rates before traveling. While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants in Paramaribo, cash is king in most of the country, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. It’s advisable to carry some cash with you, particularly when traveling to the interior.

Top 20 Cities in Suriname:

  1. Paramaribo
  2. Lelydorp
  3. Nieuw Nickerie
  4. Moengo
  5. Albina
  6. Mariënburg
  7. Wageningen
  8. Brownsweg
  9. Groningen
  10. Brokopondo
  11. Totness
  12. Nieuw Amsterdam
  13. Apoera
  14. Tamanredjo
  15. Onverwacht
  16. Jenny
  17. Zanderij
  18. Meerzorg
  19. Domburg
  20. Nieuw Jacobkondre

Interesting Facts about Suriname:

  1. Suriname is the smallest independent country in South America.
  2. It’s one of the few countries in South America where Dutch is the official language.
  3. About 90% of Suriname is covered in pristine rainforest.
  4. Suriname is home to the largest nature reserve in Central America and the Caribbean region.
  5. The country has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world.
  6. Suriname’s population is one of the most ethnically diverse in the world.
  7. It’s the only country outside Europe where Dutch is spoken by a majority of the population.
  8. Suriname was once a British colony before being traded to the Dutch for New Amsterdam (now New York).
  9. The country is home to the rare Leatherback sea turtle.
  10. Suriname’s coat of arms features two indigenous people as supporters.

Customs, Norms, and Etiquettes in Suriname

  • Greetings and Interactions:
    Surinamese people are generally friendly and welcoming. Handshakes are common for greetings, though close friends might hug or kiss on the cheek. It’s polite to greet everyone when entering a room or shop, even if you don’t know them.
  • Dress Code:
    Dress in Suriname is generally casual, but modest. In cities, people tend to dress neatly. When visiting religious sites or rural communities, it’s respectful to dress more conservatively.
  • Dining Etiquette:
    If invited to a Surinamese home, it’s polite to bring a small gift for the host. It’s common to eat with utensils, but some dishes may be eaten with hands. Always wait for the host to begin eating before you start.
  • Religious Respect:
    Suriname is a multi-religious society. It’s important to respect different religious practices and dress codes when visiting places of worship.
  • Time and Punctuality:
    Suriname operates on a more relaxed time schedule than many Western countries. While punctuality is appreciated in business settings, social gatherings often have a more flexible approach to time.
  • Photography:
    Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural or indigenous communities. Some people may expect a small payment for photos.
  • Environmental Awareness:
    Suriname takes pride in its natural environment. Be respectful of nature and wildlife, and follow local guidelines for eco-tourism.

External Resources

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Cosmic Voyager

The Cosmic Voyager is a passionate traveler with an insatiable curiosity for the wonders of the universe, always seeking new horizons and experiences that expand the mind and soul.

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