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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

The Guianas

Clothing for the Tropics

Year-round, lightweight, breathable fabrics are important. Natural fibers like light cotton, or synthetic blends suited for warm, humid conditions (e.g., moisture-wicking activewear) are good options.

Seasonal Tips

  • Dry Season: Focus on very light clothing to manage the heat.
  • Rainy Season: Quick-drying materials for comfort, as you will get wet.
  • Pack several T-shirts/Tank tops from light cotton or synthetic blends.

Layering & Modesty

Bring a couple of Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and mosquito protection, and for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces. Quick-drying fabrics are best for jungle excursions. A Light rain jacket or Poncho handles sudden downpours.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Cover your shoulders and knees for respect in churches, mosques, Hindu temples, and synagogues.
  • Swimwear is good for river activities or hotel pools.

Footwear for All Terrains

Urban Exploration

Comfortable walking sandals or light Sneakers ideal for city exploration.

Paramaribo streets

Jungle & Hiking

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots highly recommended for jungle treks. Protect feet from mud, water, and rough terrain. Thick Socks for comfort.

Rainforest trails

Water Activities

Water shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip are useful for river activities or slippery surfaces.

River excursions

Essential Documents

Your Travel Portfolio

Proper document preparation prevents delays. Keep both printed and digital copies of all papers.

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond departure).
  • Printed E-Tourist Card/E-Visa confirmation.
  • Return or onward ticket.
  • International Driving Permit (if renting a car).
  • Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.
  • Health and other vaccination records.
  • Printed/digital copies of reservations (flights, accommodation, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, local services).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Suriname uses a mixed voltage system, often 110-127V / 220-240V, with 127V/60Hz common in Paramaribo. Plug types A (two flat parallel pins), B (two flat parallel pins and a round grounding pin), and C (two round pins) are present.

Adaptation & Sim Cards

  • A universal Travel adapter with multiple plug types and surge protection is highly advised.
  • Unlocked smartphone for local SIM cards (Digicel, Telesur) from airport or stores. Airalo an option.
  • Consider a NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure connections.

Cameras & Power

Capture memories with the right gear. For jungle and wildlife, a zoom lens is good. A Waterproof camera like a GoPro or waterproof casing for your Smartphone helps with river tours and humidity.

Charging & Backup

Apps for Travel

Navigation

Download offline maps for Google Maps or use Maps.me for detailed offline maps and trails.

Translation

Google Translate is useful. Download Dutch and Sranan Tongo language packs for offline use.

Communication

WhatsApp is widely used by locals and tour operators for communication.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

A well-prepared health kit assists with minor ailments and protects against tropical health concerns. Pack a destination-specific first aid kit.

Contents

Medications & Protection

Carry a sufficient supply of all prescription medications in their original packaging, with your doctor's prescription. Over-the-counter medications for common issues like Anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium) and motion sickness remedies. Altitude sickness is not a concern.

Tropical Safeguards

Personal Hygiene & Travel Ease

Hygiene Essentials

  • Pack enough of your preferred toiletries.
  • Specialty items may be harder to find outside Paramaribo.
  • Travel-sized toiletries save space.

Convenience Items

  • Small notebook and pen for notes or language practice.
  • Separate physical and digital copies of passport and visa.
  • High-quality insect repellent, specialized medications, or outdoor gear may be expensive locally.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Jungle Treks

Your planned activities dictate specialized gear. For jungle excursions, essential items.

Water Activities

While not a primary snorkeling destination, bringing your own Snorkel mask and snorkel for hygiene and fit is good.

  • Own snorkel gear preferred.
  • Rentals available from some tour operators.
  • Water shoes for comfort and safety.
  • Swimwear for river activities.

Camping & Tours

If independent camping is planned, full Camping gear needed. Tour operators provide basic gear for organized trips.

  • Check tour operator provisions.
  • Personal Sleeping bag might be comfortable.
  • Good quality headlamp is personal.
  • Well-fitted hiking boots preferable to rentals.

Specialty Items

Bring from Home

Often Provided/Available for Rent

  • Basic camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats) from tour operators.
  • Rubber boots for jungle excursions may be provided by tours.
  • Snorkel gear from some tour operators.
  • Bicycle rentals from some hotels or local providers.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items add comfort, security, and convenience to your journey.

Smart Additions

Reusable & Regional

Sustainable choices and region-specific items for a thoughtful trip.

Sustainable & Unique

Items Difficult to Purchase Locally

High-Quality Insect Repellent

Especially those with high DEET content.

Specific Medications

Specialty or common remedies not readily available.

Specialized Outdoor Gear

Hiking boots, durable backpacks, technical clothing.

Water Purification

Personal water filters or purification tablets.

Specialty Items for Suriname

For Jungle Expeditions

  • Rubber boots (often provided by tour operators).
  • Portable charger for electronics.
  • Waterproof camera or protective casing.

For Cultural Engagement

  • Small phrasebook for Dutch or Sranan Tongo.
  • Small gifts for hosts in interior communities.
  • Small denominations of SRD for local markets.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items by category or outfit.

A dry bag is invaluable for protecting electronics from humidity and rain, especially on river trips.