Secure Cheap Flights to Suriname and Explore the Amazon Rainforest

Spring coincides with the minor rainy season. It is a great time for birdwatching as the forest becomes incredibly vibrant and alive with activity.

Summer marks the major rainy season. While it rains frequently, the rivers are high, making it the best time for deep jungle boat expeditions.

Fall is the major dry season. This is the best time for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the sunny weather in the capital.

Winter is the minor dry season. It offers pleasant weather and is a culturally rich time to visit during the end-of-year festivities.

Brazilian citizens do not need a traditional visa to enter Suriname for tourism purposes. Instead, you must apply for an Entry Fee voucher online before your departure. This digital document allows a stay of up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry. You must also present a yellow fever vaccination certificate, which is a mandatory requirement for travelers coming from Brazil. Having a printed copy of your return flight and proof of accommodation is recommended for immigration. The process is straightforward, but completing it at least 72 hours before your flight prevents last-minute issues at the airport. Local authorities are strict about the vaccination record, so keep your international certificate of vaccination or prophylaxis handy throughout your journey through South America.

Navigating Suriname requires some planning as public transport is limited. In Paramaribo, private taxis are the most reliable way to travel, but they do not use meters, so always agree on a price before starting your journey. For a more local experience, use the colorful 'wild bush' buses which are inexpensive but follow flexible schedules. Driving is on the left side of the road, a legacy of British influence, which might be a significant change for Brazilian drivers used to the right side. If you plan to explore the interior rainforest, you will mostly rely on small domestic aircraft or motorized dugout canoes known as korjaals. Renting a car is possible in the capital with an international driving permit, though traffic in the city center can be congested during peak hours. Always carry cash in local currency for transport fares as cards are rarely accepted.

Suriname is a melting pot of Dutch, Javanese, Hindustani, African, and Indigenous cultures. Respecting this diversity is key. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship. While Dutch is the official language, Sranan Tongo is the widely spoken lingua franca. Learning a few basic greetings in Dutch or Sranan Tongo is highly appreciated by locals. Unlike the more boisterous social scenes in Brazil, Surinamese culture tends to be slightly more reserved but very welcoming. Tipping is not mandatory but 10% is appreciated in upscale restaurants. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in Maroon or Indigenous villages. Being mindful of these nuances ensures a respectful interaction with the diverse communities that make this country so unique and vibrant.

The food in Suriname is a highlight of any trip, blending flavors from across the globe. You must try Pom, a traditional oven-baked dish made from taro root and chicken, often served at celebrations. For a quick and delicious lunch, visit a 'warung' for Javanese specialties like Saoto soup or Bami. Hindustani influences are found in Roti, a flatbread served with curried potatoes and meat. Unlike the beef-heavy diet often found in Brazil, Surinamese cuisine utilizes a wide variety of spices, peppers, and root vegetables. Don't be a tourist; head to the Waterkant in Paramaribo at sunset to enjoy a Parbo beer with local snacks while watching the river. For a truly local experience, visit the central market early in the morning to taste exotic fruits like awarra or pomme de cythère. TICKETS.COM.BR recommends visiting the Blauwgrond neighborhood for the best Javanese satay to get the most authentic culinary emotions.