Travel in Suriname

Decrease in arrivals stands out in the tourism industry

Suriname is not a very popular tourism destination yet. It has experienced some good years in the past as a result of limited advertising, word-of-mouth testimonials and reports from visiting travel writers. However, unlike many other nations, Suriname does not want mass tourism. Officials are interested in developing an industry that attracts high-end tourists so as to not damage the environment and still bring in revenues.

Using English online could help attract other markets

Suriname lacks a strong tourism board to promote the country. The website www.surinametourism.sr/ links to the Facebook page with articles, videos and promotions, most of the information in Dutch. A contest for the best picture was held on Facebook and the winner won a round-trip Amsterdam-Paramaribo ticket. It is no wonder the largest number of tourists coming to Suriname are from the Netherlands; however, tapping into new markets has become an interest of Suriname.

Airport improvements continue

In 2012, the Suriname government announced its intentions to invest US$70 million in the expansion and modernisation of the Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport. Suriname’s airport is now rated Category 1. That means Suriname-based airlines can fly non-stop to the US, with which in 2014 it entered an open skies agreement. President Bouterse has promised to build a modern tram from Paramaribo to the Johan Pengel International Airport. The project will cost €130 million, financed by ING Bank.

Sustainable tourism is a priority

The tourism industry seeks sustainable, low-key tourism. Untouched rainforests that can easily be accessed draw in tourists to the country. Suriname is using a UN programme called Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in order to prevent forest degradation, and support conservation and sustainable management of forests.

Investment will drive growth in the forecast period

Suriname welcomed investment in the tourism industry in 2014 as a government plan to develop a more sustainable and diversified economy. Many Dutch of European and Surinamese background have been investing in the tourism industry. If Suriname is able to significantly improve its transportation infrastructure, the country could become an important link between other countries within the region.

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