Paramaribo in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Paramaribo
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- February marks the end of the long wet season - you'll catch the last dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear to impressive sunsets, with only 10 rainy days versus December's 18
- River levels are at their highest for the year, making boat trips to Commewijne plantations and dolphin watching optimal - water visibility is excellent and wildlife is most active
- Chinese New Year celebrations (February 1st in 2025) bring busy street festivals to Waterkant and the largest fireworks display of the year over the Suriname River
- Tourist numbers are at their lowest since most visitors avoid the tail end of wet season - you'll have Fort Zeelandia and historic Paramaribo to yourself, plus 30-40% lower accommodation rates
Considerations
- Afternoon humidity peaks at 85-90% between 2-4pm, making outdoor walking tours uncomfortable during midday hours - plan indoor activities like museums during these times
- Road conditions to Suriname deteriorate from seasonal flooding - expect 4WD requirements and potential day-trip cancellations on short notice
- Evening mosquito activity increases significantly due to standing water from recent rains - malaria risk is elevated in February compared to dry season months
Best Activities in February
Suriname River Dolphin Watching Tours
February's high river levels and reduced boat traffic create perfect conditions for spotting Amazon river dolphins. Early morning tours (6:30-9:30am) avoid afternoon humidity and catch dolphins at their most active feeding time. Water clarity is excellent after wet season filtering.
Historic Inner City Walking Tours
February's variable weather creates dramatic lighting for photography of UNESCO wooden architecture. Morning tours (8-11am) avoid peak humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms (typically 3-5pm) provide natural breaks in air-conditioned cafes. Rain-washed buildings photograph beautifully.
Peperpot Nature Park Birdwatching
Migratory bird season peaks in February with over 200 species present. Early morning visits (5:30-8:30am) before humidity rises offer best wildlife viewing. The old coffee plantation ruins provide covered viewing areas during brief showers.
Commewijne River Plantation Tours
February's high water levels make historical sugar plantation sites accessible by boat. The contrast between monsoon-green landscapes and colonial ruins is most dramatic now. Tours include Fort Nieuw Netherlands with its excellent slavery museum.
Traditional Javanese and Hindu Cultural Experiences
February coincides with several Hindu festivals including Maha Shivratri. Local temples welcome respectful visitors, and traditional food vendors increase during festival periods. Cooking classes featuring roti and gado-gado are most available now.
Central Market and Street Food Tours
February's Chinese New Year brings special dishes like bami goreng and pom to market stalls. Morning hours (6-10am) offer the freshest tropical fruits and coolest temperatures. Indoor market sections provide shelter during afternoon showers.
February Events & Festivals
Chinese New Year Festival
Paramaribo's significant Chinese community celebrates with dragon dances on Waterkant Street, traditional lion performances at the Buddhist temple on Keizerstraat, and family-style dinners open to visitors. Fireworks over the Suriname River finale.
Maha Shivratri
Major Hindu festival celebrated by Suriname's large Indian community. All-night prayers at the Arya Dewaker temple, traditional foods distributed free to visitors, and cultural performances in Latour neighborhood.