Suriname is a hidden gem in South America, offering pristine rainforests, diverse wildlife, and a unique multicultural heritage blending Dutch colonial architecture with Caribbean, Javanese, Hindustani, and indigenous cultures. From the UNESCO-listed capital Paramaribo to untouched jungle adventures, this small nation delivers authentic experiences far from mass tourism.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Maroon Wood Carvings
Intricate wooden sculptures and carved bowls crafted by Suriname's Maroon communities using traditional techniques passed down generations. Designs feature geometric patterns with deep cultural significance.
Price: $15-80
Where: Central Market, Waterkant craft stalls
Maroon Patchwork Fabric (Pangi)
Colorful wrap garments in traditional Maroon patterns, worn by both men and women. These bright, geometric-patterned cloths are used for clothing, decoration, and ceremony.
Price: $10-35
Where: Central Market, craft shops near Fort Zeelandia
Gold Jewelry
Suriname has gold-working traditions influenced by its diverse cultures. Small gold pendants, earrings, and bracelets in Dutch colonial and Hindustani-inspired designs.
Price: $20-200
Where: Waterkant jewelry shops, Domineestraat
Saoto and Roti Spice Mixes
Authentic spice blends for making Surinamese saoto soup and roti curries at home. Packaged by local producers and widely available at the Central Market.
Price: $3-8
Where: Central Market, supermarkets
Borgoe Rum
Suriname's famous locally-produced rum distilled since 1965, now exported worldwide. The aged varieties make excellent gifts with distinctive Caribbean-South American character.
Price: $8-25
Where: Supermarkets, duty-free at PBM Airport
Amerindian Baskets and Hammocks
Hand-woven baskets using traditional techniques from indigenous Amerindian communities, along with cotton hammocks used throughout Suriname for relaxing in the tropical heat.
Price: $12-60
Where: Central Market, Tourtonne craft shops
Roasted Surinamese Coffee
Coffee grown in the interior highlands, roasted locally and packaged for export. A niche product representing Suriname's lesser-known agricultural heritage.
Price: $5-12
Where: Garden of Eden cafe, specialty food shops
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Central Market (Centrale Markt)
Paramaribo's bustling main market spread across several blocks near the waterfront. A sensory overload of tropical fruits, vegetables, dried fish, spices, and household goods reflecting the city's multicultural character.
Where: Waterkant, Paramaribo
Hours: Monday-Saturday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sunday 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Tourtonne Market
A neighborhood market popular with locals for fresh produce, fish, and everyday goods at lower prices than the Central Market. Less touristy and more authentic local shopping experience.
Where: Tourtonnelaan, Paramaribo
Hours: Daily 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saramaccastraat Craft Stalls
Rows of informal craft vendors selling Maroon wood carvings, textiles, hammocks, and Amerindian baskets. The main street for souvenir shopping with good selection and negotiating expected.
Where: Saramaccastraat, Paramaribo
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Waterkant
The scenic riverside strip lined with colonial buildings houses boutique shops, craft stalls, and souvenir vendors. A pleasant area for browsing while enjoying the historic atmosphere and river views.
Best for: souvenirs, crafts, browsing
Domineestraat
Paramaribo's main shopping street with a mix of clothing stores, electronics shops, pharmacies, and local retailers. Good for everyday needs and local fashion, with Chinese-owned stores offering budget goods.
Best for: clothing, electronics, everyday shopping
Torarica Shopping Area
The area around Royal Torarica Hotel and Kleine Waterstraat has upscale shops, jewelry stores, and boutiques catering to international travelers and business visitors.
Best for: jewelry, luxury goods, international brands
Malls & modern shopping
Air-conditioned, international brands, and food courts.
TBG Shopping Mall
One of Paramaribo's larger modern shopping centers offering local and international retail brands, a food court with Surinamese and international options, and a cinema. Air-conditioned and popular with local families on weekends.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Hermitage Mall
Mid-sized shopping mall near the historic district with clothing, electronics, and household stores. The food court includes several Surinamese food stalls making it a good lunch stop while shopping.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Bargaining tips
Negotiate like a local.
Bargaining is expected and accepted at the Central Market, Saramaccastraat craft stalls, and smaller souvenir vendors — start at 60-70% of the asking price
Fixed prices apply in malls, supermarkets, and established retail stores — do not attempt to negotiate
Friendly, polite negotiation yields better results than aggressive tactics — Surinamese sellers respond well to respectful interaction
Buying multiple items from one vendor opens better opportunities for discounts
Early morning is the best time to shop at the Central Market for freshest produce and most cooperative vendors
Customs & restrictions
What you can and can't take home.
Restrictions: Cannot export antiques, wildlife products, or items made from protected species — rainforest wood carvings from sustainable sources are generally permitted. Check CITES regulations for any wildlife-derived products.
Tax Refund: No formal VAT refund scheme for tourists — prices typically include all taxes
Duty Free: PBM Airport has duty-free shops. Alcohol allowance entering most countries is 1-2 liters; check your home country regulations
Shipping: International shipping available through Post Suriname and DHL in Paramaribo. Allow 2-4 weeks for surface mail; 3-7 days by air. Package fragile items carefully as handling can be rough.