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Suriname travel industry is experiencing a surge, fueled by its recent implementation of visa-free travel for 24 countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and Russia. This strategic move is expected to significantly boost tourism, attracting visitors from diverse regions and enhancing the country’s appeal as a premier travel destination.
Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is characterized by its vast tropical rainforests. The economy is heavily reliant on its abundant natural resources, particularly bauxite, of which it is one of the world’s leading producers. Suriname is a culturally diverse nation with influences from the Caribbean, India, Africa, Asia, and the United States, reflected in its varied cuisine, musical styles, and languages. Expats living in Suriname enjoy good access to shops, restaurants, healthcare, and educational facilities.The country with the most visitors to Suriname is typically the Netherlands. This is due to historical connections, as Suriname was a former Dutch colony, and there are strong cultural and familial ties between the two countries.
Suriname experienced a steady increase in tourist arrivals from 2010 to 2017, reaching a peak of 279,000 visitors in 2017, the highest in 22 years. The country’s rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife attract visitors worldwide. Despite some fluctuations, Suriname’s tourism industry demonstrates promising growth.
Following 24 countries can visit Suriname without a Visa:
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Brazil
Dominica
Grenada
Guyana
Indonesia
Israel
Jamaica
Japan
Malaysia
Netherlands
Philippines
Russia
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Serbia
Seychelles
South Korea
Trinidad and Tobago
Airports in Suriname:
Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport located near Zanderij, is Suriname’s main airport, handling over 200,000 passengers annually. It serves as the primary gateway for international travelers, connecting Suriname with major destinations worldwide.
Zorg en Hoop Airport (IATA: ORG), situated in Paramaribo, primarily serves domestic flights and some regional destinations, handling around 30,000 passengers annually. It plays a crucial role in connecting the capital with remote areas within Suriname.
Laduani Airstrip (IATA: LDO), located in the interior of Suriname, primarily supports charter and domestic flights, handling approximately 5,000 passengers annually. It is essential for access to remote regions and serves as a vital link for local communities and tourists.
Moengo Airstrip,located in the eastern part of Suriname, primarily handles domestic flights and charter services, accommodating around 3,000 passengers annually. It provides crucial connectivity for the town of Moengo and surrounding areas.
Vliegveld Wageningen, situated in the Nickerie District of Suriname, primarily caters to domestic flights, handling approximately 2,000 passengers annually. It serves as an important hub for agricultural regions and local communities.
Airlines in Suriname:
Surinam Airways (SLM): The national airline, based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, handles approximately 150,000 passengers annually, operating international flights to major destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean.
Fly All Ways (FAW): Based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, this airline serves around 50,000 passengers annually, offering regional and international flights connecting Suriname with neighboring countries.
Blue Wing Airlines (BWI): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Blue Wing Airlines primarily operates domestic and regional flights across Suriname and the Caribbean, handling about 20,000 passengers annually.
Gum Air (GUM): Headquartered at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Gum Air provides charter services and domestic flights to remote locations within Suriname, accommodating around 10,000 passengers annually.
MAF Suriname (MAF): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, MAF Suriname specializes in humanitarian and mission flights to remote and underserved areas, transporting approximately 5,000 passengers annually.
Best hotels in Suriname:
Hotel Palacio: Centrally located, Hotel Palacio offers clean rooms, personalized service, and a complimentary breakfast for guests.
Kekemba Resort Paramaribo: Kekemba Resort features comfortable houses with spacious living rooms, separate bedrooms, and modern toilet/shower facilities.
Torarica Resort: This expansive property is close to a beautiful river and is known for its friendly staff and extensive amenities.
Royal Torarica: Guests at Royal Torarica enjoy attentive service, a good breakfast, and lovely huge gardens that lead to the Suriname River.
Greenheart Boutique Hotel: An eco-friendly hotel, Greenheart Boutique Hotel offers unique Suriname cuisine and jungle tours, providing an immersive experience for guests.
Top tourist attractions places in Suriname:
Saint-Peter-and-Paul Basilica of Paramaribo: A stunning all-wooden church.
Fort Zeelandia: Historic site with river views.
Jodensavanne: Former residence of Dutch Jews during slavery.
Peperpot Nature Park: Offers hiking and wildlife sightings.
Bigi Pan: Ideal for birdwatching, kayaking, fishing, and eco-tours.
Commewijne River: Perfect for river tours.
Het Koto Museum: Showcases traditional Surinamese dress and culture.
Festivals in Suriname:
Brazilian Carnival: Celebrated in February, featuring parades, music, dance, and food similar to Brazil’s Carnival.
International Film Festival: Held in April in Paramaribo, showcasing films from over 12 countries.
Swimming Marathon: An 11-mile open water marathon down the Suriname River, from Domburg to Paramaribo.
Fete de la Musique: Celebrated on June 21st with free concerts throughout Paramaribo, similar to World Music Day.
Suriname Jazz Festival: Celebrated in October, offering music lovers a variety of jazz genres.
Suriname, a country rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, offers a unique blend of historical sites, vibrant festivals, and diverse wildlife. With its welcoming locals and increasing tourist infrastructure, Suriname presents an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Paramaribo to the serene rainforests and rivers, Suriname promises an unforgettable journey filled with memorable encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
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