Suriname Museum, Suriname - Things to Do in Suriname Museum

Things to Do in Suriname Museum

Suriname Museum, Suriname - Complete Travel Guide

Paramaribo, the vibrant capital of Suriname, is a captivating blend of Dutch colonial architecture, diverse cultures, and tropical South American charm. This UNESCO World Heritage city sits along the Suriname River and showcases a unique mix of influences from its Indigenous, African, Indian, Javanese, Chinese, and European heritage. The historic inner city features beautifully preserved wooden buildings, bustling markets, and tree-lined streets that tell the story of this former Dutch colony's rich past. The Suriname Museum, housed in a stunning 19th-century building, serves as the perfect introduction to the country's fascinating history and cultural diversity. Beyond the museum, visitors can explore colorful neighborhoods, sample incredible fusion cuisine, and experience the warmth of Surinamese hospitality. The city offers easy access to pristine rainforests, traditional villages, and the mighty rivers that define this remarkable corner of South America.

Top Things to Do in Suriname Museum

Explore Historic Inner City

Wander through Paramaribo's UNESCO-listed historic center, admiring the unique wooden colonial architecture that survived centuries in the tropical climate. Visit Independence Square, the Presidential Palace, and countless historic buildings that showcase Dutch colonial design adapted to the Caribbean environment.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free, but guided tours cost $20-40 and provide valuable historical context. Best explored in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Look for certified local guides at the tourist office.

Central Market Experience

Immerse yourself in the bustling Central Market, where vendors sell everything from exotic tropical fruits to traditional crafts and spices. This vibrant marketplace reflects Suriname's multicultural society and offers authentic local interactions and photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free, but bring small bills for purchases. Best visited in the morning when selection is freshest. Bargaining is expected for souvenirs but not for food items.

Suriname River Boat Trip

Take a scenic boat journey along the Suriname River to see the city from a different perspective and visit traditional villages. These trips often include stops at local communities where you can learn about traditional crafts and ways of life.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $30-60, full-day excursions $80-120. Book through established operators with safety equipment. Dry season (August-November) offers best conditions.

Culinary Food Tour

Sample Suriname's incredible fusion cuisine, influenced by Javanese, Indian, Chinese, Creole, and Dutch traditions. Try local specialties like roti, pom, and bakabana while learning about the cultural stories behind each dish.

Booking Tip: Organized food tours cost $40-70 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book with operators who include multiple neighborhoods and explain cultural contexts. Evening tours often offer the best variety.

Fort Zeelandia and Maritime Museum

Visit this historic 17th-century fort that played a crucial role in Suriname's colonial history and now houses a maritime museum. The fort offers insights into the country's complex past and provides beautiful river views.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $5-8. Open Tuesday-Sunday, best visited in combination with other historic sites. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit. Photography may require additional fees.

Getting There

Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) is located about 45 kilometers south of Paramaribo and serves as Suriname's main gateway. Most international visitors arrive via flights from Amsterdam (KLM), Miami, Curaçao, or other Caribbean destinations. From the airport, taxis cost around $25-35 to reach the city center, or you can arrange hotel transfers. Overland entry is possible from Guyana via ferry crossings, though this requires more planning and time.

Getting Around

Paramaribo's compact historic center is easily walkable, with most attractions within a few kilometers of each other. Local buses are inexpensive but can be crowded and confusing for visitors. Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced for short distances, though agree on fares beforehand as meters aren't always used. For longer excursions or more comfort, consider renting a car or hiring a driver for the day, which costs around $60-100 including fuel.

Where to Stay

Historic Inner City
Waterkant (Riverfront)
Centrum District
Blauwgrond
Paramaribo Noord
Rainforest Resort Area

Food & Dining

Suriname's culinary scene is one of the world's most diverse, reflecting its multicultural population. Try authentic Javanese cuisine at local warungs, Indian-influenced roti shops, Chinese restaurants, and Creole eetcafés. Don't miss local specialties like pom (a casserole with chicken and root vegetables), bara (fried bread), and fresh tropical fruits from street vendors. The Waterkant area offers upscale dining with river views, while local markets provide the most authentic and affordable meals. Most restaurants are casual, and tipping 10% is appreciated but not mandatory.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Paramaribo

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Garden of Eden

4.5 /5
(277 reviews)

Padre Nostro

4.6 /5
(111 reviews)
store

Sweetie Coffee Suriname

4.8 /5
(101 reviews)
cafe store

Don Julio

4.5 /5
(100 reviews)

When to Visit

The best time to visit Paramaribo is during the dry seasons from February to April and August to November, when rainfall is minimal and humidity more manageable. The main dry season (August-November) is particularly pleasant with cooler temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities. Avoid the heavy rainy seasons (December-January and May-July) when flooding can occur and outdoor exploration becomes challenging. However, the tropical climate means temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round at 24-32°C (75-90°F).

Insider Tips

Learn a few words in Sranan Tongo (the local creole language) - locals appreciate the effort and it enhances cultural interactions
Always carry cash as many local establishments don't accept credit cards, and ATMs can be limited outside the city center
Respect photography restrictions at religious sites and always ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional communities

Explore Activities in Suriname Museum