Suriname
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At a glance
- Region
- South America
- Capital
- Paramaribo
- Population
- 634,000 (2024)
- Area
- 163,820 km²
- Languages
- Dutch
- Currency
- Surinamese dollar (SRD)
- Drives on the
- left
- Calling code
- +597
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Before you go
Overview
Suriname is the smallest country in South America and one of the most forested in the world. Dutch is the official language.
History
The Dutch took control in 1667 in exchange for New Amsterdam (now New York). Suriname became independent in 1975.
Food & culture
Pom (a baked dish of root vegetables and chicken), roti and nasi goreng reflect its Creole, Indian and Javanese heritage.
Wildlife
The Central Suriname Nature Reserve protects jaguars, giant armadillos and harpy eagles.
Festivals & events
Diwali, Phagwa (Holi) and Keti Koti, which marks the abolition of slavery on 1 July, are all public holidays.
Things to see
The historic inner city of Paramaribo, the Central Suriname Nature Reserve and the Brownsberg Nature Park.
Interesting facts
Around 90% of Suriname is covered by rainforest.
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Suriname
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.