Things To Do
in Paramaribo
Paramaribo is a vibrant capital where Dutch colonial wooden architecture lines a lively riverfront. Its culture is a rich tapestry woven from Creole, Indian, Javanese, African, Chinese and Indigenous influences. The city pulses with markets, mosques, churches, and a dynamic street food scene.
Surrounded by lush mangroves and river life, Paramaribo offers easy access to nature reserves and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Surinamese dishes like cassava and cheese. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour of the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can admire the colonial architecture and learn about the city’s rich history. Pause to take in the sights of the Presidential Palace and the iconic Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral.
For lunch, savor some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes such as pom and roti. Continue your exploration by visiting the Fort Zeelandia, where you can delve deeper into Suriname's colonial past and enjoy stunning views of the river. Spend some time wandering through the vibrant markets, where the colors and scents of fresh produce and spices will delight your senses.
As the sun sets, head to the riverfront for a scenic stroll along the Suriname River, enjoying the warm breeze and lively atmosphere. Choose a charming restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in a mix of Creole and Indian flavors. End your evening with some live music at a local bar or café, soaking in the vibrant culture of Paramaribo.
After breakfast, embark on a river expedition along the Suriname River, where you'll be greeted by the lush greenery of the rainforest. Keep your eyes peeled for various wildlife species, including monkeys and colorful birds, as your guide shares insights about the local ecosystem. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the river, surrounded by the natural beauty of the tropical landscape.
Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch on a riverbank, featuring local fruits and snacks while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Continue your adventure with a visit to the nearby Palumeu village, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous people. Participate in cultural activities and learn about their customs and crafts.
Return to Paramaribo in the evening and unwind at your hotel. For dinner, explore the culinary scene by trying out a restaurant that specializes in seafood dishes. End the night with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich multicultural heritage and welcoming people
- UNESCO-listed historic center with beautiful wooden architecture
- Excellent accessibility to nature and easy day trips
- Very hot and humid year-round
- Mosquitoes and occasional street noise in busy areas
- Limited high-end nightlife and some services may vary outside the city center
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Asjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sranan Tongo: Mi no komprendi" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Paramaribo
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic fortress with colonial architecture and river views, a classic backdrop for photos of Paramaribo’s heritage.
Colorful wooden houses, boats, and the expansive Suriname River provide vibrant, dynamic photo opportunities.
Shaded avenues of royal palms and colonial trees, ideal for portrait and nature photography.
A striking wooden church with distinctive towers, set against the city’s skyline.
Wide avenues, statues, and restored façades offer a snapshot of Paramaribo’s broader urban heritage.
Food in Paramaribo
Paramaribo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty cassava root and root vegetable mash baked with meat or fish and coconut milk; creamy, comforting Surinamese staple.
Must-Try!
A disk of unleavened bread wrapped around curried vegetables, lentils, and sometimes meat or chickpeas; a beloved Indian-Surinamese classic.
A flavorful mixed meat dish (often pork, beef, or chicken) spiced and slow-cooked; a crowd favorite at many local eateries.
Fried plantains often served with a peanut or shrimp sauce; a popular street snack and side dish.
Salted and dried cod fish prepared with onions, peppers, and tomatoes; typically served with rice and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The busiest market in town, full of fresh produce, fish, spices, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks. A great place to taste local ingredients and observe daily life.
Evening bites along the river featuring fried plantains, dumplings, roti, and fresh juices with a view of passing boats.
Casual spots around the city offering roti wraps, curries, and Indonesian-inspired dishes that reflect Suriname’s diverse influences.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, informal interactions are common. A polite handshake is typical when meeting; addressing people by title is appreciated in formal settings.
Paramaribo is multiethnic and multi-religious; show respect when visiting places of worship and avoid loud behavior in residential areas after dark.
Dress modestly in religious or traditional settings. In markets and during communal events, casual, comfortable clothing is normal.
Safety
Tipping in Paramaribo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. If service charges are not included, leave around 5–10% in restaurants and tip taxi drivers and guides modestly for good service.
Cash (Surinamese dollar SRD or US dollars) is widely accepted in markets; many restaurants accept credit/debit cards, especially in urban areas and larger hotels. ATMs are common in Paramaribo; inform your bank of travel plans to avoid holds on cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and mostly sunny days with lower rainfall. Great for outdoor activities, river trips, and photography in bright light. Evenings are warm but more comfortable; mosquitoes can still be present outdoors.
Frequent rain showers and high humidity; lush greenery and dramatic skies make for dramatic landscapes, but outdoor plans may require flexibility. Mosquito protection and rain gear are recommended.
Paramaribo at Night
Hiking in Paramaribo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rainforest reserve about a 2–3 hour drive from Paramaribo with trails to viewpoints and waterfalls.
A former plantation turned nature park near Paramaribo with forest trails and wildlife viewing.
A UNESCO-listed vast rainforest area ideal for longer wildlife hikes and expedition-style trips.
Airports
How to reach Paramaribo by plane.
Main international gateway for Suriname, located about 45–60 minutes from Paramaribo by road. Taxis, shuttles, and some hotel transfers are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population with a rich cultural presence in music, cuisine, and daily life.
A major community contributing to food and cultural traditions in the city.
Influential in cuisine and cultural practices, reflecting Suriname’s diverse roots.
Active communities with distinct customs and contributions to the city’s mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Suriname; local matches and informal games are common around the city.
Common recreational sports in clubs and schools, with playgrounds and indoor courts in urban areas.
Played by communities with South Asian roots; occasional public games and club matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paramaribo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Surinamese dishes can be made vegetarian or replaced with legumes and vegetables. Look for dal, curries with vegetables, roti fillings without meat, and fresh fruit and salads.