Vacation time is something everyone looks forward to, and you’re probably all the more eager if the destination is somewhere exotic. Acres of dense forests, winding rivers, the open ocean, and mouth-watering delicacies – sound like the perfect travel destination? If yes, then Suriname is the place for you.
Located towards the north-eastern part of South America, Suriname is the smallest country on the continent. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the north of the country. Suriname is covered in dense rain forests – a vital weapon in the country’s war against carbon footprints. The biodiversity of the Amazon rain forest attracts a large number of tourists to this former Dutch colony.
There are lots of logistics involved in planning an international vacation. One of them is securing travel medical insurance to ensure that your finances are protected should any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries occur.
Suriname Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
You have no way to predict when you might fall prey to a disease or suffer from a mishap. Medical treatment facilities in Suriname are not the best, and it would be an added expense to an already costly vacation. Travel medical insurance is the best option to protect you from such a financial burden.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Suriname?
You are not legally required to have travel medical insurance before entering Suriname. However, it is always advisable to have insurance before traveling because it can save you from spending money on treatment while you are there.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Suriname?
If an illness or any kind of mishap cuts your much-awaited vacation short, it would be awful. Traveling through the jungles and along rivers can cause injuries in more ways than one. The risk of mugging is also real.
Getting treated in private facilities will cost you a lot of money. For this reason more than any other, you should buy travel medical insurance before you set out for Suriname.
Things to Do for Travelers in Suriname
Suriname is a delight for forest and wildlife lovers. With 98% of the country being densely forested, Suriname is rich in flora and fauna. The country also has excellent beaches with white sands and palm trees. It’s the closest you can come to being in the Caribbean without actually being there! The capital, Paramaribo, has multiple shopping destinations and a vibrant nightlife. Here are just a few attractions worth your time:
- Galibi Coppename Nature Reserve: Explore this excellent nature reserve to get a glimpse of the endangered manatee and a large variety of birds. During the laying season from April to August, hundreds of turtles flock to this reserve, including giant leatherback turtles.
- Central Suriname Nature Reserve: This huge nature reserve covers almost 16,000 square kilometers (more than 6,100 square miles) and is Suriname’s largest nature reserve. This nearly impenetrable forest houses many plants and animals, 40% of which are found only in the Guianas. Raleigh Falls is one of the reserve’s prime attractions. Hike your way up the 240-meter (almost 800-foot) Voltzbergisa to get a bird’s-eye view of the jungle.
- Brownsberg Nature Park: Here, you’ll get to see almost 1,500 varieties of plants and more than 400 species of birds. Many primates live here, including the famous howler monkeys. The Marazoni Top viewpoint will provide excellent views of the entire forest. Trek through the jungle to check out the four waterfalls in it.
- Upper Suriname River: This river runs through the heart of Suriname. Take a long and languorous boat ride here to enjoy the beauty of the forest on both banks. You can also catch glimpses of village life and the customs and rituals of their inhabitants. Lodging facilities are available along the river banks so that you can extend your stay here.
- Commewijne River: Take a water taxi and enjoy the ride. Check out the historic rubber, sugarcane, and cacao plantations along its banks. You might also spot the pink river dolphins or explore the plantations on bicycles along the well-maintained roads there. Have an excellent lunch at Frederiksdorp, an ex-plantation that has been renovated into a hotel.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Suriname
Suriname is among the safest nations in South America. However, crimes do occur, and tourists are often soft targets. A vacation gone wrong due to a mishap is a most unwelcome scenario. So, keep these tips in mind to stay safe during your Suriname travel.
- Don’t carry or display too much cash. Keep your valuables and relevant documents under lock and key at the hotel. Petty crimes like snatchings, pickpocketing, etc. do occur, so remain cautious. Avoid secluded areas at night, especially the Palm Garden area of Paramaribo.
- When visiting the forests’ interiors, go with a guide or through an authorized tour operator. That way, you won’t be stranded or lose your way. Take precautions from mosquitoes in the forested areas.
- Avoid using street-side or standalone ATMs, as snatchers tend to linger around such places. Visit a bank branch for cash withdrawals, or use the ATM attached to a bank branch.
- For traveling within the country, be careful when using local air services. Do check whether the airline meets safety standards. You can get this information from the internet.
- Try to avoid using mini-buses for travel within the city. Call a taxi from the hotel instead. You might flag one down on the road, but be careful, as they can overcharge foreigners.
Before You Travel to Suriname, Do This
Have a great time on your Suriname trip. But do keep in mind a few essential safety tips.
- Take a photograph of your passport and visa and save it on your mobile and email. That way, you’ll have immediate access to a digital copy if you were to lose the physical one.
- Keep the contact details of your country’s embassy close at hand.