Flights to Suriname

Highlights of Suriname

Suriname may be the second smallest nation in South America but that doesn't mean that it isn't worth visiting. In fact, if eco-tourism is your cup of tea, Suriname is for you. Perhaps because the bulk of the population lives on the coast, the rain forest is still virginal. Since the 1970's, people have traveled to this small nation to see the pristine conditions and to observe a unique blend of native, African, Dutch, and Asian culture unlike anywhere else. Take a walking tour of Paramaribo to see the cathedrals and the presidential palace, or tour some of the finest temples, mosques, and synagogues in South America. The tours range from the prepackaged to custom tours designed just for you.

Getting to Suriname

Paramaribo is the capital and the largest city in Suriname, and this is where you must arrive if you are traveling by air. There are many small airports in Suriname that are served from the two major airports near the capital city. Once in the country, there are several options. Buses are the cheapest way to get from one city to another but are often crowded. Taxis follow the same routes. They are more expensive than a bus but cheaper than chartering a flight, which is the usual way to fly from one location to another. Finally, there are some places in Suriname that require river travel to reach safely.

Airports

The two major airports in Suriname are Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport and Zorg en Hoop. Most flights to and from the interior cities are from Zorg en Hoop. The airport is also home to two flight academies. Johan Adolf Pengel International is the major international airport, located in the town of Zanderje, south of Paramaribo.

Airlines

Suriname Airways is the official airline of Suriname, established in 1958 as a link to the towns. It flies to Aruba, Brazil, Curacao, French Guiana, Guyana, Amsterdam, Trinidad and Tobago, and Miami. Blue Wing Airlines also operates out of Paramaribo, with flights mainly to destinations in the Caribbean. For an indirect flight, Continental, Caribbean Airlines, and American Airlines are available.

Other Money-Saving Tips

Suriname has two rainy seasons: from December to January and April through August. Still, the country is primarily a rain forest so some rain is to be expected throughout the year. Since the temperature remains consistent, the peak times for travel would be February through March and September through November. The roads in Suriname are less than ideal, so renting a car doesn't pay unless you stay in the city. Better to book tours well in advance and use river travel to the more exotic locations. A little research will go a long way towards finding the best accommodations.

In Closing

With some of the last pristine rain forest in the world to offer, eco-tourism is the ticket to Suriname. The country's wildlife includes over 600 different species of birds, and the unique culture and flavor of the many coastal communities are well worth a visit.