Arrival and Getting into Town

Local Transport in the City

• In downtown Paramaribo, taxis and minibuses are the main modes of transport. Taxis do not have meters — agree on a fare before getting in.
• Most city attractions are centrally located, and some areas can be explored on foot. However, watch out for strong sun and sudden rain showers.
• Ride-hailing apps are not widely used; it’s better to book through your hotel or use local taxis.

Inter-city and Inland Travel

• Chauffeured Car Hire: Visits to nearby areas like Commewijne and Johan Zeevenaan usually require a private car or joining a day tour. Prices vary depending on the vehicle or per person rate.
• River Boats: Inland rainforest areas and riverside villages are mainly accessible by boat, often included in eco-tours. Trips may take longer due to water conditions.
• Small Aircraft: Some inland protected areas can be reached by small planes, which must be booked in advance through a travel agency. Seats are limited.

Tips

• Make sure to carry enough cash and fill up your fuel tank before leaving Paramaribo, as supplies are scarce in inland areas.
• Road and river conditions can change rapidly during the rainy season. Leave buffer time in your itinerary and avoid overpacking your schedule.
• Avoid long-distance driving at night due to poor road and lighting conditions. Safety comes first.

Tickets and Useful Tools

• Taxis: There are no unified meters. For short trips, ask for a price estimate in advance. Hotel-arranged taxis are usually more transparent in pricing.
• Chauffeured Car Hire Fees: Costs for a one-day car hire to nearby areas depend on the route and number of passengers. Sharing the cost among several travelers is more economical.
• Inland Packages: Rainforest and beach tours are often sold as all-inclusive packages, covering transport, accommodation, meals, and guides.
• Communication and Maps: Mobile signals are decent in the city, but connectivity in inland areas is unstable. It’s recommended to use both offline maps and a local SIM card.

Please note, transportation in Suriname mainly relies on private cars, minibuses, and boats, with limited public transit options. Always agree on taxi and car hire prices in advance to prevent issues when returning. For inland travel, it’s best to go through a travel agency — do not attempt to rent a boat and venture into the rainforest on your own. Road and river conditions can vary greatly in the rainy season, so always allow extra time for cross-region travel. Arrive at the airport two to three hours before your international flight, as check-in and security procedures can be slow. Don’t cut it too close.