Frequently asked questions about Suriname
What are the entry requirements for Suriname?
German citizens need a valid passport and a visa to enter Suriname. The visa can be obtained on arrival at the border or in advance from the Embassy of Suriname in Brussels (Avenue Louise 379, 1050 Brussels, Tel.: +32 2 6401172) and from the consulate in Amsterdam (De Cuser Straat 11, 1681 CK Amsterdam, Tel.: +31 20 6426137) can be requested. Travel documents must be valid for six months after the trip. Visit watchtutorials.org for America continent overview.
What vaccinations do you need to travel to Suriname?
There are no compulsory vaccinations, but a yellow fever vaccination can be required for all travelers older than 12 months upon entry. The yellow fever vaccination is also medically recommended, as transmission may be possible in Suriname. In addition to the standard vaccinations, vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended. These include vaccinations for adults against pertussis, diphtheria and tetanus as well as possibly against measles, rubella (MMR), mumps and influenza. In the case of long-term stays, vaccination against hepatitis B and, in the case of particular exposure, to typhoid and rabies is recommended. In Suriname there is a high risk of malaria transmission all year round. The risk is particularly high in Sipaliwini and Brokopondo. There is little risk in the coastal regions and in Paramaribo. Malaria prophylaxis is not necessary, but is recommended. Due to the mosquito-related risk of infection, all travelers are advised to repeatedly apply insect repellent to all exposed parts of the body during the day, in the evening and at night, to wear clothing that covers the body and to sleep under a mosquito net. We urgently recommend taking out health insurance abroad, which should include repatriation.
Cities and places in Suriname
Central Suriname Nature Reserve
The Central Suriname Conservation Area is the largest nature reserve in Suriname and one of the most important protected rainforest areas in South America. The area of the reserve is 16,000 km² and it was created in 1998 through a merger of various national parks. The nature reserve was placed on the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in 2000. Due to its great diversity of ecosystems, in addition to floodplains, mountain regions and the lowland rainforest, the area also has a diverse fauna such as otters, monkeys, sloths, tapirs, jaguars and over 600 species of birds.
Kabalebo
Kabalebo is a lodge in the middle of the uninhabited Amazon rainforest. It is named after the Kabalebo River that flows through the region. There are hiking trails from the lodge to the base of Misty Mountain. The mountain hike to Misty Mountain (approx. 500 m) takes approx. 5 hours. It is the best way to get to know the rainforest with its diverse flora and fauna. Exotic birds, monkeys and with a little luck also tapirs or wild boars can be observed there. The summit offers a breathtaking view of the rainforest. You can take a boat tour of the Kabalebo River or cross the rapids in a kayak.
Suriname wildlife
Suriname has spectacular wildlife. Such as faucets, big cats and numerous species of birds. It is particularly interesting to watch the gigantic giant tortoises lay their eggs. They also like the tourist-poor beaches. If you are visiting the South American country at this time, you should not miss this event.
Paramaribo
Paramaribo is the capital of Suriname. It is located on the Suriname River 2 km inland from the Atlantic and is the economic, political and cultural center of the country. It is a city with a multicultural history that is reflected in its architecture. It is a mixture of Dutch, French and later also American influences. Paramaribo has developed its own style, mainly using wood and less bricks. The large number of differently designed religious buildings shows that the city is multi-ethnic and multi-religious. The Fort Zelandia with the Suriname Museum, the old town with the wooden cathedral as well as the old port and the Asian-looking market are worth seeing.
