Many nationalities get a 90-day tourist visa on arrival for $25-40. Check with the Suriname embassy.

What currency is used?

Surinamese Dollar (SRD). US dollars are widely accepted but change may be given in SRD.

Is English widely spoken?

Dutch is official, but English is understood in tourist areas. Sranan Tongo and Javanese are common locally.

Try bami goreng, roti, pom (a local casserole), and fresh fruit juices. Street food is safe and delicious.

Can I use credit cards?

Cash is king. Cards are accepted only in upscale hotels and restaurants; carry enough cash.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No. Drink bottled or boiled water. Ice in reputable places is usually safe.

What is the dress code?

Light, breathable clothing. Casual wear is fine; pack a rain jacket and sturdy shoes for wet season.

Blauwgrond

SuburbParamaribo, Paramaribo District

Blauwgrond is a SUB AREA in Paramaribo, Paramaribo District.

Blauwgrond, a vibrant suburb of Paramaribo, is a cultural melting pot where Javanese, Chinese, and Creole influences blend seamlessly. Stroll along the bustling streets lined with colorful wooden houses and aromatic warungs serving spicy bami and sate. The nearby Commewijne River offers serene boat trips past historic plantations and lush mangroves. By day, explore the lively markets brimming with tropical fruits and handcrafted batik; by night, savor the sizzling street food under fairy lights. This is a place where Suriname's diverse heritage comes alive in every bite and smile.

Best time to visit Blauwgrond

The best time is February to April (short dry season) and August to November (long dry season), when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are slightly cooler. Avoid the heavy rain months of May-July and December-January, which can flood streets and disrupt travel plans.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot 28-34°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds: High
Prices: High

Peak tourist season; book ahead.

Know before you go

Getting there

PBM

Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport

International

45 km away

Getting around

"Minibuses (bush taxis) are the main local transport, running fixed routes for about $1. They can be crowded but are cheap and frequent. Taxis are available; agree on the fare before riding. Renting a car is an option but driving can be chaotic. Walking is fine for short distances in the village core."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in cafes and hotels in central area

Local SIM

Local SIM from Telesur or Digicel at airport for ~$5

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Generally safe but petty crime exists; avoid isolated areas at night.

Night safety

6/10

Generally safe but petty crime exists; avoid isolated areas at night.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Blauwgrond is generally safe during the day, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets. Avoid walking alone after dark in poorly lit areas. Keep valuables out of sight and use registered taxis at night. Scams targeting tourists are rare but be cautious with unofficial guides. Overall, exercise standard urban vigilance."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No mandatory vaccinations, but hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever are recommended. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue are present; use DEET repellent and sleep under nets. Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water. Medical facilities in Paramaribo are adequate for minor issues; serious cases may require evacuation. Bring a basic first-aid kit and any prescription medications."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet with a handshake and a smile. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. Avoid public displays of affection. Respect the multi-ethnic harmony—don't make assumptions about people's backgrounds."

Dutch (official)Sranan TongoEnglishSarnami HindustaniJavaneseChinesePortugueseSpanishFrenchDutchHindi

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$3-5

Hotels

$25-50 | budget hotels range $25-50/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Blauwgrond is very affordable for budget travellers.

Timezone

America/Paramaribo
Local time 16:44

More facts

Population

31,483

Type

Suburb

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Beekhuizen

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Flora

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Latour

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Livorno

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Munder Buiten

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Rainville

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Tammenga

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Weg naar Zee

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Welgelegen

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Blauwgrond

SuburbCulturalFoodieRiverFamily-Friendly