Suriname just like its western neighbor is an incredible mash-up of various cultures from China, India, Africa, Europe and the island of Java. This incredible mashup provides for some wild variation of exotic dishes and festivals. Certain buildings in Paramaribo date back to the 17th century. Although Suriname has many cultural attractions it also does have hazards visitors should beware of.

Traveling info

All visitors traveling to Suriname are required to have a valid passport. Certain nationals are exempt from the requirement of obtaining a visa whilst others must obtain the visa prior to entering the country. (list in sources). Tourists who decide to rent a car in Suriname will be required to obtain an international driving permit. The left-hand side of the road is used for driving.

Traveling hazards

Road conditions in Suriname are poor. Most roads in and around Paramaribo are paved however these are poorly maintained often full of potholes. Roads further away from Paramaribo tend to get worse, road markings, signs and illumination is nonexistent. During the rainy season, large impassible holes may develop in both rural and paved roads. Traffic laws are often broken, a lot of traffic accidents involve motorcycles. Animals often wander out onto the road creating additional danger. Although the left-hand side of the road is used for driving often cars are also left-hand side drive creating even more hazard when attempting to overtake. Seasonal floods might make parts of roads completely impassable. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended if visiting during the rainy season.

Environmental hazards

The vast rainforest of Suriname is inhabited by some of the largest predators of South America. Jaguar is the apex predator Surinamese jungle. This large cat prefers to stay far away from areas of human activity. An encounter with this feline might be fatal. Cougars also inhabit the Suriname rainforest sharing their territory with Jaguars. Although these felines will not attack a grown adult, a child might become a victim. Surinamese jungle houses some of the most dangerous snake species in the world, among these, are the coral snake, South American rattlesnake, the bushmaster and several species of pitvipers including fer-de-lance. Antivenom should be available in most medical facilities in the country. The black caiman inhabits marshes and rivers of Suriname. This apex predator is easily capable of killing humans. It is advised to avoid murky waters if possible. Coastal waters of the country are generally safe. Shark attacks are very rare however to safety it is advised to avoid swimming after dusk.
Suriname does not experience serious earthquakes nor does it have any volcanoes however heavy rains cause floods making roads impassable for lengthy periods of time and often hitting urban centers driving people out of their homes.

Health hazards

All visitors traveling from countries with a risk of yellow fever must present proof of yellow fever vaccination. There is currently a risk of yellow fever in the country, therefore, travelers from outside of the risk countries are strongly advised to get a yellow fever vaccine. There are several other vaccines which are not required but are recommended. These are the routine vaccines, hepatitis A and B, rabies and typhoid vaccine. There is a risk of contracting malaria and Zika through mosquito bites. There are no vaccinations against either however there is medicine on prescription against malaria. Alternative ways to protect against either of these are the use of mosquito repellents and installing bug nets in the windows of your accommodation. The healthcare in Suriname is competent. Both the public and the private sector can provide quality service however the private sector provides higher quality and shorter waiting times as opposed to its counterpart.
In case of an emergency dial 913.

Crime

Unfortunately for Suriname crime is on the rise, this accounts for both petty crime and violent crime. Murder, armed robbery, mugging, pickpockets are all more common. Particularly tourists fall victim of armed robberies and muggings. It is advised to avoid wandering around Palmentuin area in Paramaribo. Foreigners usually stand out from the crowd and are easily targeted. In case of falling a victim of violent crime is to, unfortunately, comply with the robber. These often use their weapons if the victim does not comply. To stay low key it is best to leave most valuables in the hotel safe and to wear money belts to keep money out of sight. It is advised to avoid wearing jewelry. Wandering around at night greatly increases the threat of falling a victim of a crime as most criminals operate after dusk. Surinamese law states that it is illegal to use or possess any kind of narcotic that is not for medical purposes.

Summary

Although not as popular as most of the South American nations Suriname and has more of a Caribbean touch than South American, the blend of cultures and very few roads leading outside of the country make it feel almost like an island. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
http://www.consulaatsuriname.nl/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=102%3Alanden-waarmee-suriname-een-visumafschaffingsovereenkomst-heeft-gesloten&catid=29%3Ainfo-visum&Itemid=30&lang=english
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/suriname
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/yellow-fever#5291
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/yellow-fever-malaria-information-by-country/suriname#seldyfm879