Getting There & Away: Suriname

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM), also known as Zanderij Airport, is the main international gateway, located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Paramaribo. Zorg en Hoop Airport (SMZO), within Paramaribo, domestic flights to the country's interior.

Carriers

Surinam Airways (PY): National carrier with routes to Amsterdam, Miami, Curacao, etc.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL): Direct flights from Amsterdam (AMS).
Copa Airlines (CM): Connections from Panama City (PTY), serving North and South America.

Direct Flights & Airport Services

Direct flights connect Suriname to Amsterdam, Miami, and various Caribbean/South American cities. Flight prices are higher during dry seasons and holidays; book 3-6 months in advance for better fares. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner assist with finding good deals.

PBM Facilities & Transfers

Duty-free shops, cafes, car rental desks, currency exchange, SIM card providers.
Taxi from PBM to Paramaribo: SRD 800-1200 ($20-$30 USD). Agree on fare beforehand.
Some hotels or tour operators offer pre-arranged shuttle services.

Arrival at PBM

PBM offers basic facilities including duty-free, cafes, car rental, and currency exchange.

Seasonal Prices

Flight prices climb during dry seasons (Aug-Nov, Feb-Mar) and major holidays. Book in advance.

PBM Location

PBM is 45 km south of Paramaribo; Zorg en Hoop Airport handles domestic flights.

Transfer Options

From Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport PBM

Taxis are the most common and convenient transfer to Paramaribo. Available outside the terminal.
Agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid misunderstandings.
Expect to pay around SRD 800 - 1200 ($20 - $30 USD) to the Paramaribo city center.
Some hotels or tour operators offer pre-arranged airport transfers, possibly cheaper or more convenient.

Public Bus Limitations

Public buses are not a direct or practical option from PBM to Paramaribo city center for most tourists.
The airport's distance from the city and lack of direct routes make this choice inconvenient.
Public transportation in Suriname is generally not wheelchair accessible.
Consider taxis or pre-arranged shuttles for ease and direct travel.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

Airport departure tax from Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) is typically included in your airfare. Confirm with your airline or tour operator.

Departure Procedures

Arrive at PBM at least 2-3 hours before your international flight. Follow standard check-in, security, and passport control procedures.

Airport Facilities

PBM basic facilities: duty-free shops, eateries, and lounges for departing travelers.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Suriname shares land borders with Guyana and French Guiana, offering regional travel options.

Guyana Border West

Cross the Courantyne River by ferry between South Drain (SR) and Moleson Creek (GY).
Complete immigration and customs at both ferry terminals.
Check ferry schedules in advance as operation is on specific days/times.

French Guiana Border East

French Guiana is an overseas department of France; European Union visa regulations apply for entry from Suriname.

Crossing Details

Cross the Maroni River between Albina (SR) and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni (FG).
Use the official ferry or frequently operating "pirogues" (small motorized dugout canoes).
Complete immigration and customs on both sides.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

To rent and drive a car, a valid national driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are highly recommended. A credit card for a deposit is also necessary. Rental costs might be higher.

Driving Information

Rental companies include Hertz, Avis, and local agencies in Paramaribo.
Roads in Paramaribo are generally paved but can have potholes. Outside Paramaribo, many roads are unpaved and in poor condition.
Driving at night outside Paramaribo is not recommended due to poor road conditions and lack of lighting.

Bus Services & River Travel

Suriname has no operational passenger train network. Rail transport is not an option for travelers. Mini-buses and larger buses operate between Paramaribo and major towns like Albina and Nieuw Nickerie.

Waterways as Routes

Buses are inexpensive but can be crowded. No direct international bus services.
Suriname's extensive river networks make river travel a main transport mode.
Pirogues (motorized dugout canoes) are common for reaching interior communities and lodges.

Important Considerations for Land Travel

Driving Side: Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Road Safety: Be aware of erratic driving, cyclists, and pedestrians. Drive defensively.
Insurance: Comprehensive insurance for rental vehicles is a must.

Border Crossings: Road conditions on both sides of borders can be challenging.
No Passenger Trains: Rail transport is not an option for travelers in Suriname.
Ferry Schedules: Confirm ferry times for border crossings well in advance.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Ferry services exist mainly for border crossings with Guyana and French Guiana. No regular international passenger ferries operate beyond these border routes.

Cruise Ship Information

Paramaribo has a port to receive cruise ships.
Smaller expedition-style vessels occasionally include Paramaribo in their itineraries.
Immigration for cruise passengers typically handles onboard or at the port.

River Transportation Options

Suriname's extensive river network forms a part of its transportation system, specifically for access to the interior.

River Vessels

Pirogues (dugout canoes, often motorized) are common for reaching interior communities and lodges.
They function as local transport and are extensively used by tour operators for jungle expeditions.
From smaller river ports, onward travel is typically by foot or smaller local vehicles.

Dolphin Tours

Dolphin spotting tours are available on the Commewijne River, using smaller boats.

Regional Connections

River transport connects to interior communities and neighboring countries via border ferries.

Land Connections

From river ports, onward travel is typically by foot or smaller local vehicles; Paramaribo offers taxis and buses.

General Transportation Advice

Important Travel Notes

Flexibility in Travel

Travel times, especially for land and river routes, can be unpredictable. Factor in extra time.
Cash is often the main payment method for local transport; carry small denominations.
Engage with locals for directions and transport advice; they are generally welcoming.

Safety on the Road

Driving in Suriname can be different from what some travelers are used to. Awareness and caution on the roads are to safety.

Driving Safely

Always drive defensively and remain aware of other drivers, pedestrians, and wildlife.
Avoid driving at night outside urban areas due to limited lighting and poor road conditions.
Road signs may be limited or only in Dutch; a reliable navigation app is good.

Car Rental Considerations

International Driving Permit

Strongly recommended in addition to your national license. Some rental companies may insist on it.

X4 Vehicle for Interior

If venturing into the interior, a 4x4 vehicle is often necessary due to unpaved and challenging roads.

Insurance Coverage

Verify comprehensive insurance coverage with the rental company. DiscoverCars.com can compare options.

Travel Flexibility

Embracing the local pace and various transport methods makes getting around Suriname part of the adventure.

Getting There & Away