I was supposed to go to Paramaribo and the rest of Suriname at the start of this year on a Guianas tour. But I changed plans and went to Venezuela (and Guyana) instead. And though I missed the chance to head into Suriname’s jungle via paddle boat on my tour, I did have another opportunity to finish off my quest to see all of the Guianas a little later in the year.
So I set off via Bogota and Curaçao to get to Paramaribo, all so I could have one day in the capital before driving into French Guiana. Which in my head I worth it. But then maybe I’m weird.
I am going to be super honest, there is not that much to do in Paramaribo, but you can fill a relaxed day with these three things.
1. Visit Fort Zeelandia
Fort Zeelandia is one of the city’s best landmarks. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, it once played a central role in Suriname’s colonial history. It’s a cool installation to visit. There was loads of construction ongoing outside when I was there, but it was still nice to see.
Also just outside is the ‘I ❤️ Suriname’ sign. Which I loved because obviously I want clear photo evidence I was there. It’s important, ok…
Inside the fort, you’ll find Baka Foto restaurant which was recommended to me by several friends. Menu looked awesome and you’re right in the middle of the fort. Unfortunately I couldn’t eat there as it closes at 13:30 and I arrived at… 13:25. Unclear what time is considered lunch time here… but I missed it. So go in the morning or for dinner after 6pm.
2. Wander Around Downtown Paramaribo
Downtown Paramaribo is where you’ll find the other main sights — think Dutch colonial buildings, and the wooden blue-and-white cathedral in all the photos. Which is really beautiful and worth seeing.
Wandering the outskirts of downtown was like being sent back in time. It felt like wandering around in the early 1900s – old architecture, dusty roads, quiet streets (when the traffic wasn’t going by…). There is also a cool are where a mosque and a synagogue are side-by-side and it is largely seen as a symbol of religious harmony alongside the cathedral and Hindu temples elsewhere in the city.
But then going deeper into the city center felt a bit shadier honestly. There were quite a few drunks on the street at midday, some throwing and smashing bottles. And quite a lot of creepy guys, either yelling from across the street, beeping horns, or just lurking. I didn’t feel unsafe per se, but I didn’t feel comfortable either. Especially alone.
It took me about 2 hours to wander the downtown thoroughly. It’s uncomfortably hot doing this in the middle of the day. But wouldn’t recommend it in the evening given above uneasiness.
3. Chill at a Paramaribo Resort
OK I am not saying that Paramaribo should be your new number 1 resort destination. If that’s what you’re into, you could do this much easier and cheaper literally anywhere in the Caribbean or South America.
But really there is not enough to do in the city to fill a whole day. So this was the best option I could find as something to do in my late afternoon and early evening. Particularly because I didn’t want to be downtown in the dark, this also gave me a safe place to eat.
I stayed at Eco Torarica Hotel, which allowed me to use their sister Torarica resorts just five minutes walk away. I spent the afternoon by the pool with a drink (or 3) in hand, watched the sunset over the Suriname River from their jetty with a pagoda on it, and felt pretty relaxed.
Final Thoughts on Paramaribo
Paramaribo may not offer a long list of bucket-list sights, but it’s an alright stopover city with colonial history, riverside views, and a laid-back vibe.
If you’re traveling between through the Guianas, one day is just right to explore the highlights of Paramaribo and get a feel for the vibe. Ideally come to Suriname to do jungle and wildlife stuff. But if you can’t, this is a good alternative.
