MileHacker Logo
Sustainable Travel in Suriname

Central Suriname Nature Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site, among the biggest protected rainforest areas globally.

Coastal Mangroves

Essential for coastal protection and sea creatures, these ecosystems receive protection.

Local Community Involvement

Conservation efforts frequently involve local communities in management plus security.

Protecting Natural Resources

Thoughtful actions lessen your environmental footprint.

Waste Management & Recycling

Waste management infrastructure in Suriname is developing. Recycling there are not many facilities, especially outside Paramaribo.

Reduce Your Waste

Water Conservation

While Suriname has abundant freshwater resources, responsible water use is always encouraged.

Water Use Awareness

  • Conserve water during your stay.
  • Conserve water, especially in eco-lodges or areas with specific sources of water.
  • Support water-saving initiatives in accommodations.
  • Water supplies are a valuable natural asset.

Carbon Offset Options

While not widely available locally within Suriname, travelers can choose to offset their flight emissions through international programs.

Mitigate Environmental Impact

  • Compensate for flight emissions.
  • Terrapass provides carbon offsets.
  • This approach supports global conservation efforts.
  • It supports projects that reduce greenhouse gases.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Look for lodges and tour companies that prove eco-tourism practices.

Sustainable Choices

  • Utilize electricity from solar panels or other renewable energy sources.
  • Implement effective waste disposal and composting systems.
  • Employ and train local staff from surrounding communities.
  • Discover options at Ecobnb for eco-friendly stays.

Sustainable Outdoor Gear

Ethical Apparel

Choose gear from companies committed to sustainability and responsible practices.

Explore Patagonia's sustainable gear.

Responsible Adventures

Select tour operators that engage in responsible travel and support local conservation.

Discover G Adventures tours.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engaging with local cultures warrants mindfulness.

Respectful Interaction

Learning basic Dutch or Sranan Tongo is a sign of respect for local languages and frequently cultivates genuine interactions.

Interactions

  • Learn basic phrases.
  • Dress modestly, especially in traditional communities.
  • Exercise patience; life often moves at a new pace.
  • Always greet locals when entering a shop or boarding a bus.

Photography Ethics

Always get consent before taking pictures people, specifically children. Be discreet and avoid intrusive photography.

Privacy Concerns

  • Respect their decision if they decline a photo.
  • Ask permission before photographing inside religious buildings.
  • Photography may be restricted or prohibited in government/military sites.
  • Avoid intrusive photography, especially in private or sacred settings.

Supporting Local Economies

Your travel choices have a direct economic impact on local communities.

Direct Support

Prioritize staying in local guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and shopping at local stores.

Fair Trade

Seek out markets with artisanal goods or specific retailers that clearly state their commitment to fair trade principles.

Community Benefit

This approach means economic benefits from tourism flow directly to local people. Consider The Rainforest Site.

Responsible Choices

Conscious decisions in travel, shopping, and interaction promote a positive and beneficial experience for both visitors and local communities.

Charitable Giving & Awareness

Responsible engagement extends to how you contribute to the local people.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of trips or things to do that might exploit animals or local people.

Ethical Travel

  • Avoid tours or activities that exploit animals.
  • Do not give money directly to children on the street.
  • Direct handouts may discourage school attendance.
  • Choose ethical encounters with animals.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to contribute, do so through established local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, or community projects.

Sustainable Aid

  • Support local NGOs.
  • Support schools or community projects.
  • Aid reaches those most in need in a sustainable way.
  • Refrain from direct handouts for long-term benefit.

Community Empowerment

Direct Support

  • Purchase from local artists and artisans.
  • Just prices for local producers.
  • Direct making donations to established local initiatives.

Cultural Preservation

  • Supporting local crafts aids cultural continuity.
  • Tourism revenue can strengthen local communities.
  • Ethical tour operators often focus on advantages for local people.

Community Engagement

Contributing to local communities creates a lasting positive impact beyond your visit.

Positive Impact

  • Choose accommodations that employ local staff.
  • Purchase authentic souvenirs directly from artisans.
  • Dine at locally owned restaurants.
  • Opt for local guides for tours.

Cultural Immersion

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions to enrich your travel experience.

Deepening Connections

  • Learn some simple phrases in Dutch or Sranan Tongo.
  • Participate in local festivals or events (with permission).
  • Practice ethical photography, always asking permission.
  • Show appreciation for local music and dance.

Important Ethical Advisory

Direct Giving

Direct giving to individuals on the street, especially children, may create unintended negative consequences.

Channel Contributions

Channel contributions through reputable local institutions for more sustainable impact.

Final Sustainable Thought

Travel thoughtfully, engage respectfully, and leave a beneficial impact on Suriname's people and environment.