Transportation in Paramaribo
Suriname's largest city sits on the banks of the Suriname River and retains a colonial-era feel and UNESCO heritage streetscape in its historic inner core. Modern development has added a sprawl of gleaming towers to Paramaribo's heady architectural mix on a backdrop of the riverbank, Waterkant.Most of Paramaribo's attractions are centred on Onafhankelijkheidsplein (Independence Square) with hotels, bars, cafés and restaurants clustered in the city's entertainment zone, Uitgaanscentrum, and the Waterkant district. City boundaries are marked by Gravenstraat in the north, Zwartenhovenbrugstraat to the west, and the river to the southeast.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Car
Self-drive is an accessible option in Paramaribo where reliable rental agencies are in good supply at the airport and major hotels. However, car hire is an expensive option and prices can vary dramatically across the city, so be prepared to shop around. Road quality is variable so opt for a 4x4 to be on the safe side. Vehicles drive on the left and fuel tends to be pricey.
Taxi
Paramaribo's taxi drivers ply for trade along the Waterkant and cluster around the major hotels and outside the Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport terminal building. Cars are unmetered so agree on the fare in advance. Most drivers speak passable English and are prepared to negotiate for day rates and tours. Tips are not expected.
Foot
Getting around on foot is the best way to see Paramaribo's major attractions, museums and galleries in the charming historic centre. A stroll along the Waterkant affords pleasant river views with plenty of shady cafés in which to enjoy a cooling drink.
Boat
Although the Paramaribo-Meerzorg bridge has rendered the ferry service redundant, a number of motorised dugout canoes provide fast, cheap transit across the river. These skinny wooden kayaks are also the only way of navigating the wild splendour of the bird-filled Paramaribo swamp forest, a unique eco region.
Rent your car
Traffic flows on the left-hand side in Paramaribo, but you might have to weave around potholes in badly maintained roads. To maintain your security, you should keep your car locked and windows closed and book a hotel with secure onsite parking.
Transportation Tips
Although few organised tours exist, don't miss out on a chance to explore Paramaribo's magnificent vine-tangled mangroves to witness giant butterflies, crocodiles, snakes and lizards in their marshy lowland habitat. Almost impenetrable except by boat, the region is well served by local fishermen who become unofficial guides when tourists come to town; simply head to the Waterkant and haggle for a decent deal.
