Suriname-2-day-itinerary

Suriname: A Jungle Adventure - 2 Day Itinerary

This itinerary offers a taste of Suriname’s diverse landscape and cultural richness.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Surinamese Dollar (SRD). US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but English, Sranan Tongo (a creole language), Javanese, and Hindi are also spoken.
  • Safety: Suriname is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality: https://www.surinameembassyusa.org/visas

Transportation: Taxis are readily available, but negotiate the price beforehand. Shared minibuses (bush taxis) are a cheap and efficient way to travel between cities.

Day 1: Paramaribo Charm

  • Morning: Explore Paramaribo, the charming capital city. Wander through the historic inner city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and wooden houses on stilts.
  • Activity: Visit Fort Zeelandia, a 17th-century Dutch fort overlooking the Suriname River. Explore its dungeons and learn about Suriname’s colonial past.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Surinamese meal at “De Waterkant,” a lively waterfront street with various restaurants. Try “pom,” a popular dish of mashed plantains.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the Suriname River to see sloths, monkeys, and colorful birdlife.
  • Evening: Indulge in Suriname’s nightlife. Enjoy live music at a local bar or dine at one of Paramaribo’s many restaurants offering international cuisine.

Day 2: Nature’s Embrace

  • Morning: Embark on a day trip to Brownsberg Nature Park, located about 130km south of Paramaribo.
  • Activity: Hike through the rainforest trails, climb the observation tower for panoramic views, and swim in refreshing waterfalls. Spot diverse wildlife like monkeys, sloths, toucans, and even jaguars if you’re lucky!
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of Brownsberg Nature Park.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the sandy shores of Brokopondo Reservoir, Suriname’s largest lake, formed by a hydroelectric dam. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the water.
  • Evening: Return to Paramaribo and savor a farewell dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants, reflecting on your Surinamese adventure.

Other Activities & Points of Interest:

  • Central Suriname Nature Reserve: Explore the untouched rainforest with diverse flora and fauna, including giant anteaters and harpy eagles.
  • Raleighvallen Nature Reserve: Discover ancient Amerindian rock paintings, cascading waterfalls, and unique plant life.
  • Commewijne River Resort: Enjoy a relaxing stay at this riverside resort, offering boat trips, fishing, and birdwatching.
  • Jodensavanne: Visit the ruins of a 17th-century Jewish settlement, offering a glimpse into Suriname’s colonial history.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
  • Learn some basic Dutch phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
  • Bargain when shopping at markets and with taxi drivers.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Suriname!