last edited Dec 11, 2019
Introduction to Suriname
Quick Overview
Suriname is located in the northeast of the South American continent, on the Atlantic coastline, at the heart of the Guiana Shield.
Key Facts
- Location: on the northeast coast of South America between French Guiana and Guyana.
- Latitude/longitude: 5.50' N, 55.10' W.
- Local time:
- Capital: Paramaribo.
- Nature of the state:
- Official language: Dutch
- Currency: Surinamese dollar.
- Population: 597,927 inhabitants (2018).
- Area: 163,270 km².
- Density: 3.5 inhabitants/km².
- Highest point:
- Lowest point: sea level.
- Coastline:
- Driving: on the left.
- Flag: [drapeau: Surinam]
Tourism
Like its neighbor French Guiana, Suriname is largely covered by the Amazon rainforest, which is its main tourist attraction. Naturally, the destination will appeal first to nature lovers and even those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure. Each year, the country attracts between 250,000 and 300,000 visitors (278,000 in 2017), which is in line with the visitor numbers for its two neighbors.
Travel Essentials
- Destination: for beginner/somewhat experienced travelers.
- By air: France-Paramaribo.
- Entry requirements: passport valid for at least 6 months after entry date + visa or tourist card.
- Currency to bring:
- Exchange rate:
- Daily budget for budget travelers:
- Best for accommodation:
- Best for getting around:
- Risks:
- Best time for climate/crowds/prices: the dry season, from mid-August to November.
- Interests (out of ): Nature ; Adventure ; Culture ; Relaxation/holidays .
Useful Addresses
Socio-Economic Statistics
- "Quality of life": 100/188 (rank in 2018)
- GDP per capita: $14,900 (2017)
- Average monthly income: ()
- Inflation: +22% (2017)
- "Official" unemployment: 8.9% (2017)
- Population below poverty line: ()
- Life expectancy: 72.8 years (2018)
- Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: +0.6 (2017)
- Population growth: +1% (2018)
- Literacy rate: 95.6% (2015)
- Urban population: 66.1% (2018)
- Press freedom: 21/180 (rank in 2018)
- Political regime: flawed democracy (49/167 in 2018)
Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook