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.
- Public
- Limited public minibus network covers Paramaribo but routes are confusing for visitors, buses often crowded, and the system lacks clear schedules — best for locals who know the routes
- Taxi
- Taxis are the main way visitors get around Paramaribo — widely available but no meters, requiring fare negotiation before every trip. Hotel taxis more reliable but more expensive.
- Rental
- Car rental useful for day trips to Brownsberg and surrounding areas — 4WD strongly recommended for any travel beyond paved coastal roads. Drives on left side of road.
- Walking
- Paramaribo's UNESCO historic center is very walkable with major attractions within 2 km of each other. Flat terrain and good pavements in the heritage district, though heat limits walking to early morning and evenings.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- Official taxi $25-30 (175-250 SRD), 50-60 minutes
- Shuttle
- Hotel shuttle (check with accommodation)
- Bus
- Rental car available at airport
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Limited public bus service. Minibuses operate on fixed routes throughout Paramaribo, cost around 3-5 SRD ($0.10-0.15). Routes can be confusing for visitors. Most popular with locals.
Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare, car_rental, bicycle
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- No meters - negotiate fare before departure. Base fare starts around 30-40 SRD ($1-1.50) for short trips in city. Typical cross-city fare 80-120 SRD ($2-3). Licensed taxis recommended, especially at night. Hotel taxis more expensive but safer.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
Minibuses connect Paramaribo to major towns like Nieuw Nickerie, Albina, and Brownsweg. Fares are cheap (100-300 SRD/$3-8 depending on distance). Departures from various points in Paramaribo. Schedules flexible - buses leave when full. Conditions vary from basic to very basic.
Flights
Small aircraft serve interior destinations from Zorg en Hoop Airport. Destinations include Palumeu, Stoelmanseiland, and other remote locations. Essential for reaching deep interior. Book through local tour operators. Flights are weather-dependent and schedules flexible.
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport
From centre: 45 km south of Paramaribo
Options: Official taxi $25-30 (175-250 SRD), 50-60 minutes; Hotel shuttle (check with accommodation); Rental car available at airport
Zorg en Hoop Airport
From centre: 5 km from city center
Options: Domestic flights only to interior destinations; Taxi $8-12; Easy access by personal vehicle
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Many Paramaribo taxi drivers operate via WhatsApp — hotels can provide numbers of reliable drivers for direct booking
Google Maps
Works in Paramaribo for navigation but unreliable in the interior — download offline maps for the coastal region before travel
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Always negotiate the taxi fare before getting in — agree on a price in SRD or USD upfront to avoid disputes on arrival
Official airport taxis at Johan Adolf Pengel charge fixed rates ($25-30) — use only the official taxi desk inside the terminal, not touts outside
Download a map offline before arriving — mobile data can be unreliable and the interior has no coverage whatsoever
For interior destinations like Brownsberg, renting a 4WD is essential — standard cars struggle on unpaved roads especially after rain
River boats and motorized canoes are the primary transport to interior jungle destinations — all organized through tour operators who provide boats and experienced boatmen
Minibuses to other towns depart when full, not on fixed schedules — arrive early or expect to wait