Suriname 3 Day Itinerary

Suriname 3-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Diverse Landscapes and Cultures

Day 1: Paramaribo - Capital City Discovery

  • Morning: Arrive at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM). Complete any necessary customs and immigration procedures. Grab a taxi or hire a car to start your exploration of Paramaribo, the capital city.

  • Visit the St. Peter and Paul Basilica - This beautiful church is one of the most iconic buildings in Suriname and offers a glimpse into the country’s Dutch colonial past.

  • Lunch: Enjoy local Surinamese cuisine at one of the many restaurants in downtown Paramaribo. Don’t miss dishes like ‘Pasto’ (a stew made from cassava leaves), ‘Galjoen’ (a fish similar to catfish), and ‘Rum’ punch for a taste of traditional Surinamese flavors.

  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Waterkant Street, lined with colorful colonial-era buildings and the iconic wooden bridges over the Suriname River. Visit the Fort Zeelandia, a Dutch fort built in 1640 that now houses the National Museum of Suriname.

  • Evening: Explore the Maroon neighbourhoods of Johan Albrecht en Susanna’s Plein and Waterkant, known for their vibrant culture, unique architecture, and local markets selling everything from crafts to street food.

Things to know:

  • Suriname uses the Surinam dollar (SRD) as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in Paramaribo, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • The official language is Dutch, but many people also speak English and local languages such as Sranan Tongo.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, especially when visiting markets or walking along the streets.

Day 2: Exploring Suriname’s Nature and History

  • Morning: Travel to Nieuw Nickerie (approx. 1.5 hours drive from Paramaribo). Visit the Jodensavanne, the oldest Jewish settlement in the Americas, founded in 1635.

  • Afternoon: Head to Brownsberg Nature Park (approx. 2 hours from Nieuw Nickerie) for a guided tour of the tropical rainforest and a visit to the Suriname Toekomst Zoo. Keep an eye out for red-headed spider monkeys, giant otters, caimans, and various bird species.

  • Evening: Return to Paramaribo and unwind at one of the city’s many bars or restaurants.

Day 3: Coastal Beauty and Plantation Life

  • Morning: Head to the coast (approx. 1 hour from Paramaribo) and visit the plantation districts of Wanica, Afobaka, and Galibi. Learn about the history of Suriname’s sugar plantations and the impact of slavery on the region.

  • Afternoon: Spend some time at the beautiful Galibi Beach, home to a sea turtle sanctuary where you can observe the nesting and hatching process (during the appropriate season).

  • Evening: Return to Paramaribo for a final dinner in this vibrant city. Reflect on your journey through Suriname’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Suriname. Check the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfa.sr) for up-to-date information regarding visa requirements and application processes.

Transportation:

  • Taxis and car rental services are readily available in Paramaribo. For longer journeys, consider booking a guided tour or hiring a private driver for safety and convenience.