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Is Suriname Safe for Travelers? Complete 2025 Safety Guide

Comprehensive 2025 safety guide for travelers to Suriname with first-hand insights on crime prevention, transportation safety, health precautions, and region-specific tips from an experienced traveler who's visited multiple times.

The Truth About Safety in Suriname: My Personal Experience

The first time I landed at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport in Paramaribo, I’ll admit I was nervous. The warnings from friends and family about traveling solo to this small South American nation were ringing in my ears. “Is Suriname safe?” was the question I’d been asking myself for weeks. Fast forward to my fourth visit last month, and I can’t help but laugh at my initial fears.

Over the years, I’ve explored every corner of this fascinating country, from the lively streets of Paramaribo to remote jungle lodges deep in the Amazon rainforest. I’ve made my share of mistakes (like the time I left my backpack unattended at Brownsberg Nature Park—more on that later), but I’ve gained invaluable insights about navigating Suriname safely.

In this comprehensive 2025 safety guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about staying safe while experiencing the incredible cultural diversity, pristine nature, and warm hospitality that makes Suriname such a special destination.

Overall Safety Situation in Suriname in 2025

Let’s address the big question right away: Yes, Suriname is generally safe for travelers, but like any destination, it requires common sense and awareness. According to the latest Global Peace Index, Suriname ranks as one of the safer countries in South America, with crime rates significantly lower than in neighboring countries.

What I’ve found most surprising is how the safety situation has evolved since the pandemic. The Surinamese government has made substantial investments in tourism infrastructure and security, particularly in popular tourist areas like Paramaribo and the nature reserves. The introduction of dedicated tourist police units in 2023 has made a noticeable difference.

Insider Tip: Download the new “Safe Suriname” app launched in early 2025. It provides real-time safety alerts, emergency contact information, and allows you to register your travel plans with local authorities. I used it during my last trip, and it provided peace of mind, especially when exploring more remote areas.

That said, economic challenges remain. Inflation has put pressure on many local families, which has led to an increase in petty theft in some areas. Understanding these dynamics helps put safety concerns in context.

Safety by Regions and Cities in Suriname

Paramaribo: The Capital City

Paramaribo, with its beautiful UNESCO-listed colonial architecture and vibrant waterfront, is where most visitors spend the majority of their time. During daylight hours, I’ve always felt very safe walking around, even alone. The historic center, including the Palm Garden, Fort Zeelandia, and the Central Market, is well-patrolled and generally safe.

However, I’ve noticed that certain neighborhoods require more caution, especially after dark. Areas to be more vigilant include:

  • Combé Market area – While fascinating during the day, it becomes less secure after sunset
  • Parts of Tourtonne – Particularly the southwestern sections
  • Latour – A residential area where tourists have little reason to visit anyway

One night in 2023, I found myself walking back to my guesthouse in central Paramaribo around 10 PM. The normally bustling streets were nearly empty, and I immediately felt the shift in atmosphere. I quickly called a taxi using the local Uru app (Suriname’s version of Uber). That experience taught me to plan my evening returns carefully.

Coastal Areas and Galibi

The northern coastal region, including beaches like Albina and the turtle-nesting site of Galibi, are generally safe. In fact, I’ve found these areas to be among the most relaxed in the country. The indigenous communities are welcoming, though they appreciate visitors who respect their customs.

The biggest safety concerns here aren’t crime-related but rather environmental: strong currents at certain beaches and sun exposure. During my visit to Galibi Nature Reserve last year, our local guide Meneer Johan constantly reminded us “A watra no de sprey” (The water is not playing) – meaning to take the ocean currents seriously.

The Interior and Jungle Regions

Suriname’s interior jungle regions, including Brownsberg Nature Park, the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, and communities along the Suriname River like Atjoni and Palumeu, are remarkably safe from a crime perspective.

The real safety concerns here are:

  1. Getting lost without proper guidance
  2. Health issues without nearby medical facilities
  3. Transportation reliability (especially during rainy season)

When I visited the Maroon villages near Brownsberg in 2024, I was struck by how different the safety dynamics were compared to urban areas. The community-based tourism model means that visitors are integrated into village life, with locals feeling responsible for guest safety. However, you’re often hours away from the nearest hospital, which presents its own kind of risk.

Region Overall Safety Level Main Concerns Recommended Precautions
Paramaribo (Center) High Petty theft, occasional bag snatching Normal urban precautions, secure valuables
Paramaribo (Outskirts) Medium Higher crime rate at night Avoid walking alone after dark, use taxis
Coastal Areas High Environmental (currents, sun) Swim only in designated areas, use sunscreen
Interior/Jungle High (crime), Medium (overall) Remote medical access, transportation reliability Travel with guides, bring first aid kit, inform others of plans
Border Regions Medium Smuggling activity, less police presence Stay in established accommodations, avoid night travel

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Petty Theft and Street Crime

The most common safety issue travelers face in Suriname is opportunistic theft. During my second visit, I briefly left my camera bag on a chair at an outdoor café on Waterkant Street while I went to order. By the time I returned, it was gone. That costly mistake taught me to always keep valuables secure and within sight.

Particularly in Paramaribo, be aware of these high-risk scenarios:

  • Crowded markets (especially Central Market and Saramacca Market)
  • Public transportation hubs
  • Popular tourist sites during peak hours
  • Festivals and public celebrations

Scams Targeting Tourists

While Suriname has fewer tourist scams than many destinations, I’ve encountered a few worth mentioning:

The “Special Tour” Scam

Occasionally, individuals will approach tourists offering exclusive tours at suspiciously low prices. These often result in pressure for additional payments mid-tour or visits to commission-based shops. In 2024, I was approached near Independence Square by someone offering a “special discounted jungle tour” at half the standard rate. When I inquired about details, the story quickly unraveled.

Currency Exchange Scams

With Suriname’s complex currency situation (the Surinamese Dollar or SRD fluctuates considerably), money changers sometimes offer favorable rates but then use sleight of hand to short-change tourists. I only exchange money at official banks or established forex bureaus now.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Most locals don’t expect tourists to know this, but many businesses will accept USD or EUR at better rates than official exchanges during economic downturns. In early 2025, I was able to pay for my stay at a jungle lodge in euros and saved about 8% compared to the bank exchange rate. Just confirm the rate before handing over foreign currency.

Violent Crime Statistics

Violent crime targeting tourists in Suriname is rare. According to the latest statistics from the Suriname Police Corps, incidents involving tourists decreased by 17% between 2023 and 2025. Most violent crime is concentrated in specific neighborhoods of Paramaribo and is typically related to local disputes.

Armed robberies occasionally occur but are almost never directed at visitors. In my multiple trips covering nearly every region of the country, I’ve never felt personally threatened. That said, displaying obvious wealth through expensive jewelry or electronics can increase risk anywhere.

Health Safety and Medical Information

Required Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Health safety in Suriname requires more preparation than crime prevention. Here’s what I’ve learned:

  • Yellow Fever Vaccination: Not just recommended but required for entry. Border officials checked mine every time.
  • Malaria Prevention: Necessary for trips to the interior. The coastal areas including Paramaribo are generally low-risk.
  • Mosquito Protection: Essential for preventing dengue, chikungunya and Zika, which are present year-round.

During my jungle stay at Brownsberg in 2024, I ran out of mosquito repellent and paid dearly with dozens of bites despite sleeping under a net. The local remedy I was offered—a paste made from makamaka leaves—helped with the itching but couldn’t undo my mistake.

Medical Facilities and Access

Medical care in Suriname varies dramatically by location:

  • Paramaribo: Has several adequate hospitals including Academic Hospital Paramaribo (AZP) and Sint Vincentius Hospital where some staff speak English
  • Secondary cities (Nieuw Nickerie, Albina): Basic clinical facilities with limited emergency capabilities
  • Interior: Minimal medical infrastructure; serious conditions require evacuation

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Travel insurance is non-negotiable for Suriname. However, here’s something few travelers know: if you book your accommodation through certain Surinamese tour operators like METS, they sometimes offer discounted medical evacuation coverage that’s significantly cheaper than adding it to your standard travel insurance. I saved over $200 using this approach on my last trip.

One surprising thing I discovered is that pharmacies (apotheek) in Suriname often provide consultations for minor ailments at no cost. The pharmacist at Nieuwe Grond Apotheek near my guesthouse diagnosed and treated my food poisoning symptoms without requiring a doctor’s visit, saving both time and money.

Transportation Safety in Suriname

Road Safety and Driving Conditions

Driving in Suriname comes with unique challenges. Roads outside Paramaribo vary from decent paved highways to rutted dirt tracks that become nearly impassable during the rainy season (April-August).

My worst travel experience in Suriname happened when our 4×4 got stuck for hours on the road to Brownsweg during an unexpected downpour. What was supposed to be a 2-hour journey took nearly 8 hours. Since then, I always build extra time into my itineraries during rainy season and check road conditions with locals.

If you’re renting a vehicle, note that:

  • Driving is on the left (a Dutch colonial remnant)
  • Local driving can be erratic, especially in Paramaribo
  • Gas stations are scarce outside major population centers
  • Night driving outside cities is not recommended due to poor lighting and wildlife hazards

Public Transportation Options and Safety

Public transportation in Suriname comes in several forms, each with different safety profiles:

Mini-buses (“Collective Taxis”)

These follow set routes in and around Paramaribo and are incredibly affordable (about 5-10 SRD or $0.15-0.30 USD per ride). They’re generally safe during daylight hours but can be overcrowded and drive erratically. I use them regularly for short trips within the city but avoid them at night.

River Transportation

Boat travel is essential for reaching many interior locations. Safety standards vary widely. Government-regulated ferries (like those to Nieuw Amsterdam) are reliable, while smaller private boats may lack basic safety equipment.

When I traveled up the Suriname River to visit Maroon communities, I made sure to choose operators recommended by my guesthouse and always wore the provided life jacket, even when locals didn’t. The boat captain initially laughed but later explained that several tourists had fallen overboard during sudden rainstorms in recent years.

Taxis and Ride Services

Taxis are prevalent in Paramaribo and are my preferred transportation method after dark. Always use registered taxis (with a “Taxi” sign and registration) or the local ride-hailing app Uru. Current rates from the airport to central Paramaribo are approximately 200-250 SRD ($6-8 USD).

Money-Saving Insider Tip: The “korting” system (shared taxi) can save you up to 70% on transportation costs. At major hotels and the airport, ask if anyone is heading in your direction to share a taxi. This isn’t just economical but also safer than waiting alone for public transportation, especially when arriving on late flights.

Cultural Customs and Legal Considerations

Cultural Sensitivities and Respect

Suriname’s extraordinary cultural diversity—with influences from Indigenous peoples, Maroons (descendants of escaped slaves), East Indians, Javanese, Chinese, and Dutch colonists—means navigating various cultural expectations.

When visiting Maroon villages in the interior, I learned the phrase “Mi wani taki” (I want to speak) as a respectful way to address village elders. This simple gesture earned immediate appreciation and created a more welcoming atmosphere.

Some key cultural considerations that affect safety:

  • Ask permission before photographing people, especially in indigenous and Maroon communities
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (Hindu temples, mosques, and churches)
  • Remove shoes when entering someone’s home
  • The left hand is considered unclean in many cultures; use right hand for eating or giving/receiving items

Legal Issues Travelers Should Know

Suriname’s legal system blends Dutch colonial law with local traditions, creating some unexpected regulations:

  • Identification: Always carry a copy of your passport and visa; police checkpoints are common, especially when traveling between regions
  • Photography restrictions: Military installations, government buildings, and some bridges are off-limits for photography
  • Drug laws: Despite the relaxed atmosphere, drug penalties are severe
  • Border regulations: The borders with French Guiana and Guyana have specific crossing procedures that must be followed

During my 2024 visit, I nearly got into trouble for taking photos near the Presidential Palace without realizing it was prohibited. A police officer approached and firmly but politely asked me to delete the images. Claiming ignorance as a tourist worked in this case, but it was a good reminder to research restricted areas.

Safety Tips for Different Types of Travelers

Solo Travelers

As someone who’s traveled solo through Suriname multiple times, I’ve developed these habits:

  • Share itinerary details with someone back home and check in regularly
  • Stay in accommodations with 24-hour reception or security
  • Use group tours for visiting remote areas rather than going alone
  • Build relationships with guesthouse owners who often provide invaluable local advice
  • Be especially cautious about night activities; I stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark

Women Travelers

While I have male privilege when traveling, I’ve gathered insights from women travelers I’ve met in Suriname:

  • Catcalling occurs but is rarely threatening; most women ignore it and move on
  • Dress somewhat conservatively outside beach/resort areas to avoid unwanted attention
  • Women-only accommodations are available in Paramaribo and provide additional security
  • Solo female travelers report feeling safer in Suriname than in many neighboring countries

My friend Maria, who solo backpacked through Suriname in early 2025, mentioned that she felt most comfortable using the buddy system when exploring markets or nightlife areas, often connecting with other travelers at hostels.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Suriname presents a mixed picture for LGBTQ+ travelers:

  • Homosexuality is legal, but local attitudes vary widely
  • Public displays of affection (for any couples) are generally uncommon
  • Urban areas, especially Paramaribo, are more accepting than rural communities
  • There are a few LGBTQ+-friendly venues in Paramaribo, though they maintain a low profile

A gay couple I met during my stay at Torarica Hotel mentioned they had no issues when booking a double bed but were advised by the hotel staff to be discreet in smaller communities.

Family Travel

Suriname can be wonderfully enriching for family travel, but requires extra planning:

  • Medical facilities for children are limited outside Paramaribo
  • Bring all essential baby/child supplies as specific brands may be unavailable
  • Many jungle lodges welcome children but may have age restrictions for certain activities
  • The heat and humidity can be challenging; plan plenty of rest periods and hydration breaks

Money-Saving Sustainability Tip: When traveling with kids, I’ve found that bringing a portable water purifier saves both money and reduces plastic waste. The Grayl Geopress has been invaluable in Suriname where buying bottled water for a family can cost up to $10 USD daily. The purifier paid for itself within a week on my last trip.

Emergency Resources and Contacts

Emergency Phone Numbers

  • General Emergency: 115
  • Police: 115 or 117
  • Ambulance: 113
  • Fire: 110
  • Tourist Police (Paramaribo): +597 476 881

Embassy and Consular Support

Your country’s embassy should be one of your first contacts in a serious emergency. The main embassies in Paramaribo include:

  • U.S. Embassy: 165 Kristalstraat, Paramaribo; +597 556 700
  • Dutch Embassy: Mauritskade 9, Paramaribo; +597 477 211
  • British Honorary Consulate: +597 520 412
  • Canadian Honorary Consulate: +597 424 313

Local Emergency Phrases

Knowing a few key phrases in the local languages can be crucial in emergencies:

  • “Help!” – “Help!” (Dutch, widely understood)
  • “I need a doctor” – “Ik heb een dokter nodig” (Dutch)
  • “Call the police” – “Bel de politie” (Dutch)
  • “I need help” – “Mi abi yepi” (Sranan Tongo)

Conclusion: My 5-Step Safety Plan for Suriname

After multiple trips to Suriname spanning several years, I’ve developed a simple 5-step safety approach that has served me well and should work for most travelers:

Step 1: Pre-Trip Preparation

Invest time before your trip in medical preparation (vaccinations and prescriptions), register with your embassy through their traveler program, and research current conditions. The extra hour spent on preparation can save days of headaches later.

Step 2: Arrival Strategy

Plan your airport arrival carefully, especially if landing at night. Pre-arrange transportation through your accommodation, keep valuables secured, and have small denominations of local currency (SRD) or US dollars for immediate expenses.

Step 3: Daily Security Routine

Develop habits that protect you: separate your money between different secure locations, keep digital and physical copies of important documents, use hotel safes when available, and carry only what you need for the day.

Step 4: Regional Adaptation

Adjust your safety measures based on where you are. What works in Paramaribo might not be appropriate for jungle expeditions or coastal communities. Listen to local guides and accommodation staff about area-specific concerns.

Step 5: Trust Your Instincts

Perhaps the most important safety tool is your intuition. If a situation feels wrong, remove yourself. I’ve avoided potential problems several times by simply walking away from uncomfortable scenarios, even if I couldn’t immediately identify why I felt uneasy.

Suriname has given me some of my most treasured travel experiences—from watching giant leatherback turtles nest on moonlit beaches to dancing to kaseko music with locals in Paramaribo. The country’s remarkable diversity, both cultural and natural, makes it truly unique in South America.

With reasonable precautions and an open heart, you’ll likely discover, as I did, that the question isn’t just “Is Suriname safe?” but rather “When can I return to Suriname?”

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Suriname

Is Paramaribo safe at night?

The central areas of Paramaribo are generally safe until about 9-10 PM, particularly around hotels and restaurants frequented by tourists. After that, it’s best to use taxis rather than walking, especially if you’re alone. Certain neighborhoods (mentioned earlier in this guide) should be avoided after dark. The safest nightlife areas include the Waterkant district and the hotel zone near Torarica.

Do I need special vaccinations for Suriname?

Yes. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Suriname, and officials check certificates at immigration. Additionally, depending on your itinerary, medical professionals may recommend typhoid, hepatitis A/B, and malaria prophylaxis, especially if you’re visiting jungle regions. Consult a travel health specialist at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Is tap water safe to drink in Suriname?

In Paramaribo, tap water is generally treated but still not recommended for tourists. Throughout the country, stick to bottled or purified water. In remote areas, even brushing teeth with tap water should be avoided. Most hotels provide drinking water or have it available for purchase.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Suriname?

Credit card acceptance has improved significantly since 2023, but Suriname remains largely a cash-based society. Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and tour companies in Paramaribo accept cards, but technical issues are common. Always carry sufficient cash, especially when traveling to smaller towns or the interior where cards are rarely accepted.

What’s the best way to get around Suriname safely?

For Paramaribo, registered taxis and the Uru app provide the safest transportation, especially at night. For intercity travel, tour operators offer the most reliable (if more expensive) transportation. Public minibuses are economical but can be crowded and sometimes drive erratically. For remote areas, organized tours with professional guides provide the safest access.

Is it safe to visit Suriname’s interior jungle regions?

The interior is very safe from a crime perspective but presents environmental and access challenges. Always visit with experienced guides, bring appropriate medications and supplies, and inform people of your itinerary. The biggest risks are medical emergencies in remote locations, not personal security issues.

How do I handle currency and avoid scams?

Exchange money only at banks, official exchange offices, or your hotel. The Surinamese Dollar (SRD) fluctuates, so check current rates before exchanging. Count your money immediately after any transaction, and be wary of extremely favorable rates offered on the street. US dollars and euros are widely accepted at many tourist establishments.

References and Additional Resources

For the most current information on traveling safely in Suriname, consult these reliable sources: