Smack dab in the northern reaches of South America is Suriname, one of the best-kept secrets of the continent. Nestled between Guyana, French Guiana, and Brazil, this tiny nation is a treasure trove of untamed rainforests, majestic rivers, and vibrant cultural heritage. But one need not break the bank to explore this off-the-beaten-path destination.
On the quest for raw beauty and uncharted territories, I journeyed through Suriname on broke budgeting, with a thirst for adventure. From hitchhiking along steamy jungle roads to camping underneath star-studded skies, I share experiences, tips, and tricks for navigating this breathtaking country on a dime.
Come with me on a journey into the uncharted world of broke backpacking in Suriname, where the thrill of the unknown meets the beauty of unexplored worlds.
How to get there:
From Guyana
- Georgetown to Moleson Creek: From Georgetown, take a minibus or taxi to Moleson Creek, the Guyana-Suriname border ($5-10 USD, 2-3 hours).
- Moleson Creek to Nieuw Nickerie: Cross the border on foot and continue to Nieuw Nickerie, Suriname’s westernmost city, by taxi or shared bus ($10-20 USD, 1-2 hours).
- Nieuw Nickerie to Paramaribo: Take a daytime or overnight bus to Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital ($20-30 USD, 4-6 hours).
From French Guiana
- Cayenne to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni: From Cayenne, take a bus or taxi to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni ($10-20 EUR, 2-3 hours).
- Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni to Albina: Cross the Marowijne River by ferry ($5-10 EUR, 30 minutes) to Albina, Suriname.
- Albina to Paramaribo: Take a shared bus or taxi to Paramaribo ($30-50 USD, 4-6 hours).
From Brazil
Tayamba to Paramaribo: Take a shared bus or taxi to Paramaribo ($40-60 USD, 6-8 hours).
Boa Vista to Bonfim: From Boa Vista, take a bus or taxi to Bonfim ($20-30 BRL, 2-3 hours).
Bonfim to Tayamba: Cross the border and continue to Tayamba ($10-20 USD, 1-2 hours).
When to go:
Dry Season (December to April)
- Pros:
- Easier jungle trekking and outdoor explorations
- Less rainfall, reducing travel disruptions
- Cooler temperatures (22-28°C/72-82°F)
- Cons:
- Peak tourist season, higher prices
- Increased risk of forest fires
Shoulder Season (May to June and September to November)
- Pros:
- Fewer tourists, lower prices
- Lush green landscapes after rainy season
- Comfortable temperatures (23-29°C/73-84°F)
- Cons:
- Occasional rain showers
- Some tourist attractions may be closed
Rainy Season (July to August)
- Pros:
- Lowest prices for accommodations and tours
- Waterfalls and rivers at their peak
- Fewer tourists, authentic local experiences
- Cons:
- Difficult jungle treks, potential flooding
- Higher risk of malaria and Zika
Special Events and Festivals
Diwali (varies, typically October/November): Join in the festive Hindu celebrations.
Srefidensi Day (July 1st): Celebrate Suriname’s independence with vibrant cultural performances.
Maroon Day (October 10th): Experience the rich heritage of Suriname’s Maroon communities.
Best Itineraries:
3-Day Itinerary: Paramaribo Explorer
Day 1:
- Explore Paramaribo’s historic center
- Visit Fort Zeelandia
- Overnight at a budget hostel
Day 2:
- Take a ferry to Meerzorg
- Visit the Meerzorg Mosque
- Enjoy local street food
Day 3:
- Visit the Paramaribo Market
- Take a walking tour of the city’s colonial architecture
- Depart for next destination
1-Week Itinerary: Northern Suriname Adventure
Day 1-2: Paramaribo
- Explore the city, Fort Zeelandia, and markets
Day 3:
- Take a bus to Nieuw Nickerie
- Visit the Nieuw Nickerie Beach
Day 4:
- Take a boat tour to the Bigi Pan Nature Reserve
- Overnight at a local guesthouse
Day 5:
- Visit the Marowijne River and Albina
- Return to Paramaribo
Day 6-7:
- Explore Paramaribo’s surroundings, such as the Colakreek Recreational Resort
2-Week Itinerary: Southern Suriname Expedition
Day 1-3: Paramaribo
- Explore the city, Fort Zeelandia, and markets
Day 4:
- Take a bus to Brokopondo
- Visit the Brokopondo Reservoir
Day 5:
- Take a boat tour to the Afobaka Dam
- Overnight at a local guesthouse
Day 6-7:
- Visit the Brownsberg Nature Reserve
- Explore the Saramacca region
Day 8:
- Take a bus to Atjoni
- Visit the Marowijne River and Atjoni
Day 9-14:
- Explore the Saramacca region, visit Maroon communities, and enjoy outdoor activities
1-Month Itinerary: Ultimate Suriname Adventure
Week 1: Paramaribo and Northern Suriname
- Explore the city, Fort Zeelandia, and markets
- Visit Nieuw Nickerie, Bigi Pan, and Albina
Week 2: Southern Suriname
- Visit Brokopondo, Afobaka Dam, and Brownsberg Nature Reserve
- Explore the Saramacca region and Maroon communities
Week 3: Central Suriname
- Take a bus to Pokigron
- Visit the Pokigron Falls
- Explore the interior, including the Tafelberg Nature Reserve
Week 4:
Depart from Paramaribo
Return to Paramaribo, explore surrounding areas
Visit the Colakreek Recreational Resort
Transportation:
The Bus System
Suriname’s bus system is extensive, covering most towns and villages. Buses are a great way to see the countryside and meet locals. You can pay with cash or use a rechargeable card (called a “chipkaart”). Don’t be surprised if the bus is packed – Surinamese love to socialize during their daily commutes!
Minibuses (Teddy’s)
Minibuses, affectionately called “Teddy’s,” are the workhorses of Suriname’s transportation system. These small vans operate on fixed routes, often connecting smaller towns and villages. Be prepared for a cozy ride, as Teddy’s can get quite full!
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Paramaribo and other larger towns. They’re a good option for shorter trips or when you’re in a hurry. Make sure to agree on a price beforehand, as some taxis might not have meters.
Water Taxis
In coastal areas, water taxis are a fun way to travel along the rivers and canals. You’ll get a glimpse of Suriname’s stunning waterways and maybe even spot some dolphins!
Tips and Tricks
Enjoy the scenery and strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers – Surinamese are known for their hospitality!
Always negotiate prices beforehand, especially with taxis and minibuses.
Be prepared for crowded buses and minibuses – it’s all part of the adventure!
Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) when possible.
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Top things to do:
Paramaribo Area
- Explore the historic city center
- Visit Fort Zeelandia
- Paramaribo Market
- St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral
- Walking tour of colonial architecture
- Colakreek Recreational Resort (swimming, hiking)
- Suriname Museum
- Palace of the Governor
- National Assembly Building
- Waterkant (waterfront promenade)
Northern Suriname
- Nieuw Nickerie Beach
- Bigi Pan Nature Reserve (boat tour)
- Marowijne River and Albina
- Meerzorg Mosque
- Ferry ride across the Marowijne River
- Nieuw Nickerie Lighthouse
- Washabo Village
- Totness Island
Southern Suriname
- Brokopondo Reservoir
- Afobaka Dam (boat tour)
- Brownsberg Nature Reserve (hiking)
- Saramacca region (Maroon communities)
- Atjoni (Marowijne River)
- Moengo Town
- Brokopondo Lake
- Sarakreek Nature Reserve
Central Suriname
- Pokigron Falls
- Tafelberg Nature Reserve (hiking)
- Raleighvallen Nature Reserve (hiking)
- Voltzberg Nature Reserve (hiking)
- Indigenous communities
- Apoera Village
- Washabo Village
- Saramacca River
Eastern Suriname
- Marowijne National Park (hiking)
- Galibi Nature Reserve (sea turtles)
- Albina Market
- St. Laurent du Maroni (French Guiana border town)
- Tribal communities
- Cottica River
- Lawa River
- Marowijne River Mouth
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking in nature reserves
- Boat tours on Marowijne River
- Swimming in waterfalls
- Jungle treks
- Kayaking or canoeing
- Fishing
- Birdwatching
- Cycling
Cultural Experiences
- Visit Maroon communities
- Attend traditional ceremonies
- Learn about indigenous cultures
- Try local cuisine (Pom, peanut soup, etc.)
- Visit local markets
- Attend a Hindu or Islamic festival
- Visit a traditional Saramaccan village
- Learn traditional crafts (woodcarving, etc.)
Other Experiences
- Visit old plantations
- Explore abandoned colonial towns
- Take a traditional Saramaccan canoe ride
- Attend a local music festival
- Visit a local orphanage or community project
- Go on a city tour
- Visit a local farm
- Take a cooking class
Areas to Explore
- Paramaribo’s historic center
- Nieuw Nickerie’s coastal strip
- Brokopondo’s lake district
- Saramacca’s Maroon communities
- Marowijne’s national parks
- Commewijne’s coastal villages
- Suriname’s interior rainforests
- French Guiana border region
Festivals and Events
Indigenous Cultural Festival (varies)
Srefidensi Day (July 1st)
Maroon Day (October 10th)
Diwali (varies)
Eid al-Fitr (varies)
Suriname Jazz Festival (varies)
Paramaribo Film Festival (varies)
Marowijne River Festival (varies)
Food:
Food in Suriname is more than just having a meal; it is a uniting aspect, cultural, and friendly. It gives meaning to everything because every single dish has a story combining flavors and methods from multiple cultures.
One of the most iconic dishes is Pom, a hearty stew made from root vegetables, chicken or beef, and a kind of tuber called “tayer.” It is comforting and a staple dish during many family gatherings.
Another staple is peanut soup, a creamy and flavorful concoction of peanuts, vegetables, and spices. This popular dish speaks to the African influences within the country and is also greatly complemented with rice or bread.
Indigenous people in Suriname have also contributed significantly to the country’s culinary outlook. Traditional dishes such as “kippiring” or grilled fish and “kasaba” or boiled cassava are simple yet delicious representations of the native cuisine of this country.
Equally, the effects of Asian immigration can be seen in Surinamese cuisine. Probably the most favorite and eaten dish is “moksi-aleisi,” or mixed rice. This flavorous one-pot meal consists of rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, showing the cultural diversity of the country.
In the capital city of Paramaribo, street food vendors and markets sell all kinds of local delicacies. From crispy fried plantains to spicy sauces and fresh tropical fruits, each bite is a real taste sensation.
Despite this rich history of food, Surinamese cuisine too faces some problems. Its traditional ways of cooking and ingredients are giving way to modern conveniences and imported goods.
Despite this fact, certain efforts have been made to preserve and promote Suriname’s unique cuisine. The local chefs, along with the food enthusiasts, also work together in community initiatives on documentation and sharing of traditional recipes, ingredients, and ways of preparing them.
Relish the flavors of this eclectic mixture that is Surinamese food, visit local markets, and mingle with the friendliest of people. Every bite has a story it will tell, every meal a possibility to connect with rich heritage.
Culture:
Suriname is a tiny nation with a colossal cultural identity. This former Dutch colony has woven a vibrant tapestry of indigenous, African, Asian, and European influences, creating a unique cultural landscape.
Indigenous Roots
Suriname’s indigenous people, comprising the Saramaccan, Arawak, and Tiriyó communities, have preserved their ancient traditions despite centuries of colonization. Their cultural practices, such as storytelling, music, and dance, continue to thrive.
African Legacy
The transatlantic slave trade brought enslaved Africans to Suriname’s plantations, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s culture. African rhythms, rituals, and customs have blended with indigenous and European traditions, giving birth to distinctive Creole and Maroon cultures.
Asian Influences
Asian immigrants, primarily from China, Indonesia, and India, arrived in Suriname as contract laborers. They introduced new culinary traditions, festivals, and cultural practices, further enriching the country’s diversity.
European Heritage
Suriname’s colonial past has left a lasting European imprint. Dutch, British, and French influences are evident in architecture, language, and customs.
Cultural Expressions
Suriname’s cultural expressions are as diverse as its people:
- Music: Saramaccan drumming, Creole calypso, and traditional folk songs.
- Dance: Maroon war dances, indigenous ritual dances, and modern fusion styles.
- Art: Woodcarvings, pottery, and vibrant textiles reflecting African and indigenous motifs.
- Literature: Creole poetry, Dutch-influenced novels, and oral storytelling.
Festivals and Celebrations
Suriname’s cultural calendar is filled with vibrant festivals:
- Srefidensi Day (July 1st): Celebrating independence from the Netherlands.
- Maroon Day (October 10th): Honoring Maroon heritage and cultural resilience.
- Diwali (varies): Suriname’s Hindu community celebrates the Festival of Lights.
- Eid al-Fitr (varies): Muslims mark the end of Ramadan.
Cultural Preservation
Efforts are underway to safeguard Suriname’s cultural heritage:
Cultural exchange: International collaborations and festivals showcase Suriname’s unique culture.
Language preservation: Creole, Saramaccan, and indigenous languages are being documented.
Traditional crafts: Workshops and training programs promote artisanal skills.
Accommodations:
Suriname, being one of the most tucked-away countries in South America, has quite an exciting adventure for a traveler. Speaking about accommodation, the best deals that any budget-oriented explorer can find are hostels. Here is a short guide on how to navigate the world of hostels in Suriname.
Ranging from low-budget, offering just dorm rooms with shared facilities to mid-range, private room hostels with common areas depending on your needs and preferences, Suriname’s hostels vary. You will also see some eco-lodges or sustainable hostels nestled in nature preserves or even social hostels with a lively atmosphere, having activities organized on site.
Picking a hostel, let location be your guide. Centrally-located hostels in Paramaribo put guests within walking distances from historic sites and markets. Along the coast, find beachfront hostels with breathtaking ocean views. Eco-lodges or hostels in the jungle give you an immersive experience in the rainforest. Community-run hostels in more rural areas provide authentic cultural immersion.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak season that starts from December to April. Amenities and location determine the prices, but one can expect prices starting from 10-50 USD per night. Do ask about discounts, packages, and membership benefits.
Safety and security should come first in the agenda. Research greatly into hostels, read through reviews, and check the ratings. Also, check for facilities on the basis of 24*7 reception, security, and displacement of personal belongings and valuables.
The hostels in Suriname offer a great opportunity to get together with fellow travelers and locals. Join in on cultural activities and events, interact with the local staff, and enjoy common areas. Be flexible, open-minded, and respectful to local customs and the rules of the hostel.
Backpacking costs:
Daily Budget
Accommodation:
- Shared hostel room or camping: $5-7 USD (SRD 40-55)
Food:
- Street food or market meals: $2-3 USD (SRD 15-25)
- Groceries: $1-2 USD (SRD 8-15)
- Total food budget: $3-5 USD (SRD 25-40)
Transportation:
- Local buses: $1-2 USD (SRD 8-15)
- Walking or hitchhiking: free
Activities:
- Explore local markets or parks: free
- Visit cultural sites: $1-2 USD (SRD 8-15)
Other expenses:
- Miscellaneous: $1-2 USD (SRD 8-15)
Total daily budget: $10-15 USD (SRD 80-120)
Weekly Budget
Accommodation:
- Shared hostel room or camping: $35-49 USD (SRD 280-390)
Food:
- Street food or market meals: $14-21 USD (SRD 110-160)
- Groceries: $7-14 USD (SRD 55-110)
- Total food budget: $21-35 USD (SRD 160-280)
Transportation:
- Local buses: $7-14 USD (SRD 55-110)
Activities:
- Explore local markets or parks: free
- Visit cultural sites: $7-14 USD (SRD 55-110)
Other expenses:
- Miscellaneous: $7-14 USD (SRD 55-110)
Total weekly budget: $70-105 USD (SRD 560-840)
Conclusion:
As we wrap up this Suriname adventure on a Broke Backpacker budget, one finds that this underrated South American country is, in fact, an adventure waiting to happen for those who love venturing off the beaten track.
Within the $10-15 per day budget, we have been able to experience the busy streets of Paramaribo, gaze in utter bewilderment at rainforest giants, and dip into the cultural treasure box that this nation is.
With warm hospitality, beautiful surroundings, and affordability, Suriname offers ideal grounds for budget travelers in search of an authentic experience. Every dollar goes a bit further in Suriname, affording the backpacker the opportunity to enjoy local food, find hidden waterfalls, and engage in meaningful exchange with these friendly locals.
On the way, we learned that the soul of Suriname is in unscripted moments: sharing stories with fellow travelers, trying street food, and discovering one or another nook. To travel in Suriname means to be ready to step aside from the beaten path, to reconcile with the fact of unpredictability and to show respect for the traditional way of life. Flexibility, open-mindedness, and readiness for adventure are your companions on this trip.
Suriname is a broke backpacker’s heaven for an unforgettable adventure on the cheap. So pack your rucksack, grab your sense of adventure, and take an unforgettable journey through this incredible country.
As you leave Suriname, the memories of a lifetime will be with you: the friendliness of its people, the beauty of its sceneries, and the thrill of finding something new.
