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Paramaribo, the capital and biggest city of Suriname, sits along the Suriname River. It’s an amazing mix of history, cultures, and unspoiled beauty. Paramaribo forms the hub of the politics, business, and culture of this little South American nation. Because of centuries of colonization and immigration from all around the world, it provides visitors with a unique view into a society quite unlike others. Paramaribo’s busy markets, Dutch colonial architecture, and mild tropical temperature make it a delightful destination. It’s also the portal to Suriname’s verdant interior rainforests.
On the North-east coast of South America, Suriname is a little but culturally rich nation. Its beating core is Paramaribo, on the banks of the Suriname River. The capital and biggest city of Suriname is Paramaribo. About 240,000 people call it home—almost half of the nation’s population.
Though many foreign visitors are unaware of Paramaribo, it is a fantastic destination because of its rich cultural diversity, well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, and gateway to Suriname’s verdant interior rainforests. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, Paramaribo’s historic center features its exquisite white wooden buildings. This made Paramaribo a destination everyone ought to see.
Paramaribo is a fantastic place to start learning about Suriname’s distinct history and natural beauty if you are heading to this area of South America. Visitors of Paramaribo can savor the friendly people and varied cuisine derived from African, Asian, and European backgrounds. They can also saunter across the lovely streets of the old town.
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First occupants of Paramaribo were the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. Most likely the Tupi-Guarani people lived in the area, and their town, Parmurbo, means “inhabitants of the large river.” Early 17th century European colonization started with the Dutch building a trading station in 1613. Along with trying to settle in the region, French and English immigrants also aimed at this period.
English immigrants dispatched by Lord Francis Willoughby from Barbados were sent in 1650 to establish a town under Fort Willoughby’s protection. Later, this town would develop as modern Paramaribo. Though during the Second Anglo-Dutch War, the Dutch seized the town in 1667. The Treaty of Breda confirmed Dutch rule over the Suriname colony, which comprised Paramaribo as capital, in the same year. Rembrandt to Fort Zeelandia honoring the Dutch province that sponsored the expedition.
During Dutch colonial times, Paramaribo developed into a significant trading hub for tropical products grown on estates along the Suriname River. Among these things were sugar, coffee, cocoa, and more. The city expanded and its population grew more varied, including enslaved Africans and Jewish immigrants from Brazil and the Netherlands in addition to European colonists. City’s old religious buildings mirror this variety. For instance, among the oldest synagogues in the Americas, the 1723-built Neveh Shalom Synagogue
Two terrible fires tore across Paramaribo in the nineteenth century, destroying vast areas of the city in 1821 and 1832 respectively. Once slavery was outlawed in 1863, many former slaves moved from rural farms to Paramaribo, resulting in significant changes to the demographic makeup of the city. Suriname remained the administrative center of the nation and kept growing and modernizing even after it acquired its independence from the Netherlands in 1975.
About 15 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean, Paramaribo is on the west bank of the Suriname River. Just 3 meters (10 feet) above sea level, the city boasts an area of 182 square kilometers (70 square miles). Low-lying coastal location of Paramaribo makes it vulnerable to flooding and possible consequences of climate change.
The city boasts a tropical rainforest climate with year-round high humidity and regularly warm temperatures. There is little seasonal variation in average daily temperatures, which run between 27°C (81°F) and 30°C (86°F). At 2,135 millimeters (84 inches) annually, rainfall is plentiful. Although there isn’t a real dry season, April to July usually produces the highest precipitation while August through November usually produces the lowest.
This tropical environment encourages plenty of greener areas all around the city, including many parks. Suriname’s interior is covered in thick Amazon rainforest; the nearby coastline features large mangrove forests. Paramaribo’s closeness to several ecosystems makes it a perfect base for nature exploration and ecotourism.
About half of Suriname’s total population lives in Paramaribo, which boasts almost 241,000 residents. With so many Creole (mixed African and European descent), Hindustani (Indian), Javanese, Chinese, Indigenous, and European Dutch people, the city’s demographics mirror the great ethnic variety of the nation. Paramaribo’s multicultural legacy permeates the languages, cuisine, religious practices, and cultural events.
Though Sranan Tongo, an English-based creole language, is a common lingua franca, Dutch is still the official language and most often used tongue. Other often spoken languages are Hindi, Javanese, and several Chinese dialects. This linguistic variety supports Paramaribo’s vibrant street scene and markets, where several languages and cultural traditions coexist.
An other aspect of Paramaribo’s culture is religious variety. Christian church towers and spires, mosque domes, and elaborate Hindu temple roofs abound on the city skyline. On Keizerstraat, where a mosque sits next to the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, one of the most obvious displays of religious coexistence is evident. This proximity reflects the usually harmonic interactions among the several faith groups in Paramaribo.
With an appealing range of tastes and dishes, the city’s gastronomic scene mirrors its cosmopolitan past. Street food booths and neighborhood restaurants offer Creole, Indian, Indonesian, Chinese, and Dutch-influenced cuisine. Popular local specialties are bakabana (fried plantain fritters), roti (flatbread served with different curries), and pom—a casserole-like meal with chicken and tayer root.
The biggest city in Suriname as well as its political and economic center is Paramaribo The tourist business, the financial sector, and the service sector all help to define the economy of the city. Though most of it goes through the deep-water port at Nieuw-Amsterdam, which is closer to the coast, there is still a lot of international trade passing via the port of Paramaribo.
Paramaribo’s architectural result is a combination of its ongoing modernism and colonial past. The historic area features Dutch colonial era wooden constructions painted in pastels. More modern projects on the outskirts of the city run counter to this area, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
The transportation demands of Paramaribo depend on the large network of roads and bridges it boasts. Though minibuses and taxis are also accessible as public transportation choices, many residents rely on bicycles or motorcycles for mobility. Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport is Suriname’s main airport for international flights about 45 kilometers south of the city.
The sole university in Suriname is Anton de Kom University in Paramaribo. Established in 1968, the university offers both undergraduate and graduate courses emphasizing medicine, law, and social sciences. The city also boasts several institutes for teacher preparation and vocational colleges.
With several hospitals and clinics serving the population, Paramaribo’s healthcare is generally better than that of Suriname’s rural areas. The largest medical institution in the nation, Academic Hospital Paramaribo also provides teaching grounds for the medical school of the university. Like many developing nations, Suriname struggles to offer complete healthcare, especially in specialized areas.
About 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of the city center, Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport welcomes most foreign visitors to Paramaribo. Known also as the Paramaribo-Zanderij International Airport, it is Suriname’s main gateway.
Several airlines fly directly or one-stop from Europe and the Americas to Paramaribo:
For those coming from neighboring countries, there are additional options:
Once you land at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, you have several options for reaching the city center:
Airport Bus: A public bus runs between the airport and Paramaribo, taking about an hour. This is the most economical option but can be crowded and isn’t ideal if you have a lot of luggage.
Taxi: Numerous taxis are available outside the terminal. While more expensive than the bus, they offer door-to-door service. Expect to pay around 100 Surinamese dollars (SRD) for a one-way trip to the city center. Be prepared to negotiate the fare before departing.
Shared Minibus: For a middle-ground option, shared minibuses offer transportation to most hotels in Paramaribo for about 40 SRD per person. These depart when full, so there may be a short wait.
Car Rental: Several car rental agencies have desks at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself. Remember that Suriname drives on the left side of the road.
Depending on traffic, the trip from the airport to Paramaribo takes 45 to 60 minutes whichever choice you decide upon. Your first views of Suriname’s verdant surroundings and finally the colonial architecture that distinguishes Paramaribo will come as you approach the city.
Once in Paramaribo, you will find that most of the old area is readily walkable. Many of the major attractions—including the central market, the Waterkant (waterfront), and Fort Zeelandia—have limited space. Walking lets you appreciate the surroundings and take in the colonial buildings at your free will.
For longer distances or exploring outside of the city center, there are several ways to get around:
Buses: Paramaribo has a network of privately operated buses that follow set routes. These colorful, often hand-painted vehicles are an economical way to get around, though they can be crowded during peak hours. Buses generally run until early evening. The main bus station is located near the Waterkant in the Knuffelgracht area.
Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey, as meters are not commonly used.
Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore Paramaribo and its outskirts. The flat terrain makes cycling relatively easy, though be prepared for heat and sudden rain showers. Several shops in the city center offer bike rentals.
Car Rental: If you plan to explore beyond Paramaribo, renting a car gives you the most flexibility. Several international and local agencies operate in the city. Remember that Suriname drives on the left, which can take some adjustment for visitors from right-hand drive countries.
Boat Taxis: To cross the Suriname River to the Commewijne district, boat taxis are available from the Platte Brug near the Central Market. These offer a scenic way to travel and are particularly useful for visiting attractions like the former plantations across the river.
When navigating Paramaribo, it’s helpful to use the Waterkant (waterfront) and Independence Square as reference points. Many of the city’s notable sights radiate out from these central areas.
The most appealing aspects of Paramaribo are its colonial buildings, varied cultural background, laid-back tropical atmosphere. Among the most significant sites one can visit are these:
Historic Inner City: The gem in the crown of Paramaribo is the historic center with UNESCO World Heritage listing. With their wide, tree-lined streets and perfect white wooden buildings, this area offers a window into the colonial past of the city. Two must-see streets are Waterkant and Mr. Lim A Postraat since they feature some of the best specimens of the unique city architecture.
Fort Zeelandia: Standing on the banks of the Suriname River in the 17th century, the fort known as Fort Zeelandia was integral to the history of the city. Today it is home to the Suriname Museum, which records the nation’s rich cultural legacy and the colonial era. On the fort grounds, which provide amazing river views, locals enjoy relaxing.
Independence Square (Onafhankelijkheidsplein): Independence Square, sometimes called Onafhankelijkheidsplein, sits at the core of Paramaribo’s old district. It is not far from the Presidential Palace, the Court of Justice, and the National Assembly as well as from The square looks even more lovely at night, when the buildings are illuminated.
Neveh Shalom Synagogue: Standing beside the Mosque Keizerstraat, the Neveh Shalom Synagogue reflects the religious diversity and tolerance in Paramaribo. Found in 1723, this is among the first synagogues in the Americas.
Central Market: The vibrant Central Market is the ideal venue to observe local way of life. Here you have fresh produce, spices, and a variety of local crafts as well. Especially fascinating is the section on fish, which clarifies Surinamese cooking’s centrality of fishing.
Palmentuin (Palm Garden): Thanks in great part to its profusion of grand royal palm trees, the peaceful Palmentuin (Palace Garden) is a refuge of vegetation right in the middle of the city. Here a picnic or leisurely walk would be ideal.
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral: This impressive wooden cathedral is one of the largest of its kind in the Americas. Its ornate interior is worth a visit, showcasing beautiful craftsmanship.
Numismatic Museum: Once the Central Bank of Suriname, the Numismatic Museum offers a close-up view of the rich history of the nation from a restored colonial structure. The major draw is a rare copper Parrot coin from 1679.
Waterkant: Particularly in the evenings, people often gather at the banks of the Suriname River here. Great views of the river traffic line’s banks, dotted with colonial era buildings.
These sites let you experience the history, culture, and environment of Paramaribo. Most of them in the middle of the city are easily reachable on foot, thus you can relax exploring.
Beyond sightseeing, Paramaribo offers a range of activities to engage visitors:
River Tour: Take a boat tour along the Suriname River to see the city from a different perspective and potentially spot wildlife like caimans and capybaras.
Culinary Tour: Join a food tour to sample Paramaribo’s diverse cuisine, influenced by African, Asian, and European traditions. Don’t miss trying local specialties like pom, roti, or bakkeljauw.
Bike Tour: Rent a bicycle or join a guided cycling tour to explore Paramaribo’s outskirts and nearby former plantations.
Commewijne District: Take a day trip to this nearby district across the Suriname River. Visit former plantations, now peaceful agricultural areas with historic buildings and lush gardens.
Brownsberg Nature Park: While not in Paramaribo itself, this nature reserve is a popular day trip. It offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and the chance to see diverse wildlife.
Cultural Performances: Check local listings for performances of traditional music and dance, which often showcase Suriname’s diverse cultural heritage.
Markets: Besides the Central Market, explore smaller neighborhood markets for a glimpse of local life and the chance to purchase unique souvenirs.
Sunset at the Waterkant: Join locals in the evening tradition of gathering along the waterfront to watch the sunset and enjoy street food.
Paramaribo hosts several cultural events throughout the year:
Avondvierdaagse (March/April): A four-day walking event that attracts thousands of participants.
Jazz Festival (October): An international music festival featuring local and international jazz artists.
Divali (October/November): The Hindu festival of lights is celebrated with beautiful illuminations throughout the city.
Owru Yari (New Year’s Eve): A lively citywide celebration with fireworks and street parties.
Surifesta (July): A month-long cultural festival celebrating Suriname’s diversity through music, dance, and food.
While Paramaribo isn’t known as a major shopping destination, it offers some unique purchasing opportunities:
Central Market: Great for local produce, spices, and crafts.
Readytex Art Gallery: Features work by contemporary Surinamese artists.
Saramacca Straat: A shopping street with a mix of local and international brands.
Magic Centre Mall: A modern shopping center with a variety of stores and a food court.
Suri-Art: Offers high-quality Surinamese handicrafts and artwork.
When shopping, look for unique local products like Surinamese hot sauce, locally-made jewelry, or traditional textiles.
The vibrant food scene of Paramaribo is a mouthwatering mirror of the cultural variety of the city. This city’s mouth-watering cuisine combines African, Asian, European, and indigenous Amerindian tastes and techniques. Foodies can go on a gastronomic journey unlike any other thanks to this unique dining scene.
Many Surinamese meals and the gastronomic soul of the nation center rice. One of the most likely dishes you will come across in Paramaribo is Pom, a festive casserole with Jewish background. Typical components are chicken, lime juice, pomtajer (taro root) grated, baked till golden. This meal is the ideal illustration of the cosmopolitanism found in Paramaribo’s cuisine.
Another well-liked meal in the Surinamese community is their version of the flatbread roti, with Indian roots. Common in Paramaribo is roti topped with chicken, potato, and chickpea curry together with a range of chutneys and fiery sauces. Many people stop one of the several roti stores for a quick and satisfying lunch.
For those who enjoy things on the fiery side, Paramaribo has plenty to provide. A spicy soup with fish or chicken, cassava, and hot peppers, peper watra is among the most beloved dishes that best illustrates the influence of African culinary traditions. Though both nasi goreng (fried rice) and bami (stir-fried noodles), both of which have grown mainstays in Surinamese home cooking, obviously show the impact of Indonesia.
In Paramaribo, there are many little eateries and food stands where you may sample some local cuisine and street food. Popular during festivities, the deep- fried plantain fritters known bakabana, the spicy peanut sauce known pinda bravoe, which goes well with bread, and the vermicelli pudding known fiadu should all be tried.
Great places to sample all the several types of cuisine Paramaribo has to offer are the markets of the city. The Central Market, sensory delight close to the Suriname River, offers fresh vegetables, spices, and prepared meals. Along with some hot sauces and preserves produced here in the area, soursop and sapodilla are just two of the unusual fruits you could find here.
Paramaribo’s cuisine heavily features seafood since it is close to the Atlantic Ocean and the Suriname River. Fish like sea bass and red snapper are often cooked with a Creole twist including local herbs and spices. One of the most loved dishes is pre-war watra, a fiery fish soup.
For those hooked on sugar, Paramaribo is heaven on earth. Clear examples of the Dutch colonial influence are sweets like poffertjes and stroopwafels, thin waffles packed with caramel syrup. Among the regional specialties are the sweetened pineapple and tapioca pearls dish called goedangan and the thick coconut and cassava cake called bojo.
Paramaribo offers a rather large range of beverages to pick from. Try Dawet for a cool drink on hot days; it combines rose syrup with coconut milk. If you’re looking for something stronger, Parbo Bier, the local lager, and the classic fermented cassava beer, kasiri are great choices.
Paramaribo’s restaurant scene reflects the several cultural inspirations of the city with its unique mix of African, Asian, and European tastes. You really have to do these few activities:
Javanese Restaurants: Try dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) or bami (noodles) at one of the many Javanese eateries.
Roti Shops: These casual spots serve Indian-influenced flatbread with various curries and fillings.
Warung Kario: A popular spot for Indonesian-Surinamese cuisine.
De Waag: Located in a historic building, this restaurant offers a mix of international and Surinamese dishes.
Zus & Zo: A charming café serving sandwiches, salads, and local specialties in a colonial-style house.
Street Food: Don’t miss trying street food specialties like bakkeljauw (salted cod fritters) or pom (a festive dish made with chicken and pomtajer root).
Maretraite Mall Food Court: For a variety of quick, affordable options.
Local dishes to look out for include:
While not known for wild nightlife, Paramaribo offers several options for evening entertainment:
Torarica Hotel & Casino: Features a casino and multiple bars.
De Gadri: A popular bar and nightclub playing a mix of international and local music.
Riverside Café: Offers live music on weekends with a view of the Suriname River.
Overbridge Bar & Restaurant: A relaxed spot for drinks with river views.
Remember that while Paramaribo is generally safe, it’s always wise to exercise caution when enjoying nightlife in any unfamiliar city.
Paramaribo offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:
Luxury Hotels:
Mid-range Hotels:
Budget Options:
Hostels:
Airbnb: Many locals offer rooms or entire apartments through Airbnb, which can be a good option for longer stays or those seeking a more local experience.
When choosing accommodation, consider factors like proximity to the historic center, air conditioning (essential in Paramaribo’s climate), and amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast options.
While Paramaribo is generally considered safe for tourists, it’s important to exercise common-sense precautions:
Many interesting day trips from Paramaribo allow you to see more of Suriname’s cultural legacy and breathtaking scenery:
Commewijne District: Not far across the Suriname River, this area boasts former plantations. Discover Suriname’s colonial past and take in a serene riverfront environment at Frederiksdorp, a restored plantation. New Amsterdam Fortress, nearby, provides information on the military past of the area.
Brownsberg Nature Park: About 130 km south of Paramaribo, Brownsberg Nature Park provides hiking paths, waterfalls, and the opportunity to see varied wildlife including monkeys and vibrantly coloured birds. Stunning views of the surrounding rainforest are offered from the top of the plateau.
Joden Savanne: About 50 kilometers south of Paramaribo, this ancient site known as Joden Savanne was among the first Jewish communities in the Americas. You can visit the old cemetery and the ruins of the synagogue even though the original settlement is hardly intact.
Peperpot Nature Park: Just half an hour from Paramaribo, this former cocoa and coffee plantation has been turned into a nature park. It’s a great place for learning about Suriname’s flora and fauna and bird viewing.
Bigi Pan: About three hours west of Paramaribo, this coastal region boasts varied birdlife. A day trip is possible, but an overnight stay allows you to go birdwatching early in the morning, when the area is busiest.
Marienburg: About an hour from Paramaribo, Marienburg is a former sugar plantation providing a window into Suriname’s industrial past. Visit the former plant to discover the life of the employees who formerly lived here.
Paramaribo’s strength lies in its cultural diversity and the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic and religious groups. As a visitor, it’s important to respect this diversity:
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. This applies to both Hindu temples and mosques.
Ask permission before taking photographs of people, especially in markets or religious settings.
Be mindful of different cultural practices. For example, in some communities, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering a home.
Learn about the country’s complex history, including the sensitive topics of slavery and colonialism, to better understand the context of modern Suriname.
Try local foods and participate in cultural events to show appreciation for Surinamese traditions.
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