Suriname flag

Country in South America

Suriname

Suriname is South America's smallest country and the only Dutch-speaking nation in the continent, with vast unspoiled rainforest, a multicultural colonial capital, and extraordinary biodiversity.

CapitalParamaribo
LanguageDutch
CurrencySurinamese dollar
Population617k

Key Facts

CapitalParamaribo
RegionNorthern South America
GovernmentUnitary parliamentary republic
Independence1975
Area163,820 km2
Population density4/km2
Time zoneSRT (UTC-3)
Calling code+597
Drives onLeft

Quick View

HDI
0.730
Safety index
42.0
Internet access
70%
Life expectancy
72.7

Sources: World Bank, Numbeo, UN.

Top 3 Highest Mountains

Juliana Top1,230 m
Tafelberg1,026 m
Goliathberg358 m

Religion (est.)

  • Christianity48%
  • Hinduism22%
  • Islam14%
  • Other16%

Why Visit

Central Suriname ReserveUNESCO rainforest reserve covering nearly 12% of the country, one of the world's last pristine tropical forests.
ParamariboUnique wooden colonial city blending Dutch, African, and Asian architecture, UNESCO-listed.
River ExpeditionsMulti-day canoe trips on the Suriname River into deep jungle.
Indigenous VillagesVisit Maroon and Amerindian communities maintaining centuries-old traditions.
BirdwatchingOver 700 bird species including harpy eagle, scarlet macaw, and cock-of-the-rock.

Top 3 Cities by Population

Paramaribo
241k
Lelydorp
18k
Nieuw Nickerie
13k

Climate Overview

26CJan avg.
28CJul avg.
2,331 mmYearly rainfall
Tropical, hot and humidClimate

Other Quick Info

CurrencySurinamese dollar
Official languageDutch
National day25 November
Electricity127V, Type C/F