Contributed by Eyanie Bennett
Why Suriname is Becoming the New Must Visit for Savvy Travelers
When most people think of South America, they picture Brazil, Argentina, or Peru.
But tucked away on the continent’s north-eastern edge, is a country many haven’t explored in relative depth, yet —
Suriname. On the scale of the South American Continent, Suriname is smallest in size (approximate land area of 163,820km sq.) but big on culture, nature, and adventure.
From its deep rainforests-covering up to 93% of it’s landmass, to its Dutch-Caribbean capital, Suriname offers a predominantly eco travel experience.
So why is Suriname becoming the new “must-visit” for savvy travelers?
It’s the only country in South America where Dutch is the official language. It’s where Javanese, Maroons, Hindustanis, Creoles, Chinese, and Indigenous cultures blend like nowhere else. Suriname offers pristine rainforests, with over 90% of its land covered in lush, untouched green. You can cruise the Suriname River by day, and stargaze in a jungle lodge by night.
From Paramaribo’s UNESCO-listed city center to the interior villages where time stands still-this is where adventure meets authenticity.
And what’s more?
It’s not overrun by tourists, which means more space for connection, exploration, and discovery.
Suriname Isn’t Mass Market. It’s Experience
Suriname isn’t mass-market. It attracts curious, conscious travelers – especially from the Netherlands, due to their shared colonial history. Tourists also come from French Guiana, Brazil, and the Caribbean, particularly Trinidad, Guyana, and Jamaica.
For many in the Caribbean, Suriname feels both familiar and exotic, offering tropical comfort with a whole new cultural flavor. It’s a destination for those who want more than beaches; for those who want depth, heritage, and a bit of jungle grit.
Suriname’s tourism sector is small but mighty – and it’s growing fast. In 2020 (year of COVID 19) their revenue earned was 19 million USD–a sharp decline from 64 million USD in 2019
(Suriname International tourism revenue – data, chart The Global Economy.com)
Suriname revenue from Eco-Tourism & cultural travel, is projected to grow to approximately US$125 million by 2028 (Suriname Tourism Industry Outlook 2024 – 2028). With investments in community-based tourism and conservation, Suriname is positioning itself as a sustainable travel destination to watch.
Suriname isn’t about all-inclusive resorts or luxury malls – it’s about experience.
Hike through Brownsberg Nature Park, where monkeys swing above you and waterfalls greet you at the end of the trail.
Take a boat deep into the jungle to reach Palumeu, a remote Amerindian village, accessible only by river. Savor pan, roti, and sate in Paramaribo, then dance at a kaseko festival under the stars.
Want to challenge your body and mind?
Go on a multi-day trek into the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where few outsiders ever set foot.
Suriname Intrigue for Caribbean Travelers
For Caribbean travelers, Suriname offers a cultural mirror with a fresh twist.
It’s a place where Caribbean rhythms, African traditions, and Asian spirituality come together. It’s affordable, filled with adventure, and close enough to feel like home – yet different enough to awaken
your wanderlust.
Whether you’re in it for the wild rivers, the deep forests, the food, or the feeling, Suriname invites you to take the road less traveled.
So, travel to Suriname, with an open mind receptive of their culture and adventure; and leave with a full heart.
Suriname: Not just a destination, it’s a discovery.