Paramaribo, Suriname: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Paramaribo, Suriname? If you're planning to go to Paramaribo, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Paramaribo, Suriname

Based on the climate and weather in Paramaribo, Suriname, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Paramaribo, Suriname

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Paramaribo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Paramaribo, Suriname by month

January

If you are traveling to Paramaribo in January, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Paramaribo is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Paramaribo is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Paramaribo during April, you might see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May for Paramaribo is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June for Paramaribo can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you visit Paramaribo during July, you may see that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. It's important that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you go to Paramaribo in August, you will notice that it is constantly hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. It's important that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Paramaribo in September, you will notice that it is extremely hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Paramaribo is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you visit Paramaribo during November, you are likely to see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Take care to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Paramaribo in December, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Suriname has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Paramaribo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you are going to check out the majestic St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to ''Palmentuin'' (Palm Gardens), you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Paramaribo, Suriname

Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the lesser-known destinations of South America. The city is known for its colonial architecture, clear waterways, diverse cuisine, and rich history. Here are the top tourist attractions in Paramaribo that you should consider visiting.

1. Historic Inner City

The historic inner city of Paramaribo has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to explore the colonial history and Dutch influences of Suriname. This area features unique and well-preserved buildings, including government buildings, churches, museums, and the Presidential Palace.

2. Fort Zeelandia

Fort Zeelandia is a significant historical site in Paramaribo that played an essential role in the colonial past of Suriname. This fort is now a museum where visitors can learn about the city's history and see many of the remnants of the fort's Dutch colonial past.

3. Peperpot Nature Park

Peperpot Nature Park is a beautiful nature reserve located near the city of Paramaribo. It is filled with lush greenery, waterways, and wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can take a guided tour, hike the park's trails, or relax in one of the many picnic areas.

4. Paramaribo Zoo

The Paramaribo Zoo showcases a vast collection of exotic animals, including rare monkeys, big cats, and reptiles. You can go on a guided tour of the zoo, explore the different animal enclosures or participate in a feeding activity.

5. Waterfront

The Waterfront of Paramaribo is a bustling district filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Tourists can explore the unique architecture, sample the diverse foods, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

6. Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral

The Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Suriname, and it is a must-visit for anyone visiting Paramaribo. The church is known for its unique design and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors can also climb up the church tower and get a panoramic view of the city.

7. Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge

The Jules Wijdenbosch Bridge is a prominent landmark in Paramaribo that spans across the Suriname River. The bridge provides visitors with breathtaking views of the city and is a great spot for photography.

Conclusion

Paramaribo is a beautiful city filled with attractions and experiences that make it one of South America's most unique destinations. The city boasts a strong cultural identity, and the blend of European, African, and indigenous heritage is visible in everything from the architecture to the cuisine. Whether you're looking to explore the rich history of Suriname or indulge in the natural beauty, Paramaribo has something for everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Levice, Slovakia, Kukup, Malaysia, Sandown and Shanklin, England, United Kingdom, Misty Fiords National Monument, British Columbia, United States of America, Bega, New South Wales, Australia, Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico, United States of America, Arrow Rock, Missouri, United States of America, Danachi, Azerbaijan, Sztutowo, Poland, Łęknica, Poland, and Martin, Slovakia.