Travel Vaccines and Advice for Suriname
Suriname is on the northeastern coast of South America near French Guiana, Guyana, and Brazil. The country is rich with diversity.
Visitors are warmly welcomed by its diverse populace, including descendants of enslaved Africans, who, along with descendants of Dutch and British colonists, have shaped the vibrant social and cultural landscape of Suriname. The capital city, Paramaribo, is filled with shopping, clubs, and restaurants. Just a few kilometres away is a beautiful jungle waiting to be explored.
This country has something for everyone.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Suriname?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Suriname
Do I Need a Visa for Suriname?
What Is the Climate Like in Suriname?
How Safe Is Suriname?
Visiting Brownsberg Nature Park
What Should I Take to Suriname?
Canadian Embassy in Suriname
Do I Need Vaccines for Suriname?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Suriname. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Suriname: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required for travellers arriving from ALL countries. Recommended for all travellers over 9 months of age. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Suriname |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required for travellers arriving from ALL countries. Recommended for all travellers over 9 months of age. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Suriname |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and consider vaccination when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the PHAC.
- Yellow Fever – To shield against yellow fever, travellers should prioritize vaccination, as it offers robust and durable immunity. The vaccine is recommended for those visiting endemic areas, ensuring their safety by reducing the risk of contracting the virus from infected mosquitoes.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travellers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Yellow Fever in Suriname
While proof of yellow fever vaccination is not required for entry to Suriname, it is highly recommended. Yellow fever transmission is widespread throughout Suriname, some countries may require proof of immunization when travelling to them from Suriname.
Malaria in Suriname
Malaria in Suriname is primarily found near the border with French Guiana. Limited transmission is reported in some other regions. No malaria is reported near the Atlantic Coast nor in Paramaribo.
Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if travelling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Suriname
Prevent Bug Bites in Suriname
When bitten by bugs, clean the area with soap and water, refrain from scratching, and use over-the-counter remedies. For severe reactions or tick bites, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Following PHAC guidelines can help prevent and manage bug bites effectively.
Food and Water Safety in Suriname
While dining abroad, prioritize food safety by avoiding street food, practicing hand hygiene, and selecting fully cooked dishes. Opt for sealed bottled or canned drinks. Prevent travellers’ diarrhea by adhering to hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.
Infections To Be Aware of in Suriname
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – Chagas disease, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by kissing bugs, requires prevention through insecticide control and avoiding the kissing bug.
- Dengue – Dengue fever, caused by Aedes mosquito bites, poses a significant global health risk. Preventative measures, including avoiding mosquito bites, are crucial due to the lack of direct antiviral treatments.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, a prevalent tropical parasitic disease, spreads through contact with contaminated water. To combat it, avoid infected water sources and use protective clothing.
- Zika – Zika, transmitted by infected mosquitoes and through sexual contact, can result in birth defects. Preventing Zika involves using insect repellent, safe sexual practices, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for Suriname?
A passport which is valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A business visa is required. Tourists must purchase a tourist card for $35USD upon arrival. After 30 days, foreigners must obtain an extension of stay entry stamp within a week.
Suriname Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Suriname? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Suriname and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. If you have not received the vaccine, you may have to return home or enter quarantine.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Suriname?
Suriname’s most popular tourist destinations are located along the coast and have a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity all year round. The capital city, Paramaribo, and Nieuw Nickerie both have hot and humid weather with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees. They have a rainy season from May to August and a dry season from September to April.
Brownsberg Nature Park and Galibi Nature Reserve are also popular tourist destinations, their weather is similar to Paramaribo and Nieuw Nickerie. Brownsberg has a rainy season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. Galibi has a rainy season from November to April and a dry season from May to October.
It’s important to know that Suriname is in a region that is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, particularly during the rainy season. It’s necessary for tourists to keep an eye on the weather forecast and follow local guidance to stay safe.
How Safe Is Suriname?
Suriname is generally a safe country to travel to, but travellers should still be careful to stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and look out for suspicious activities or people.
- Avoid travelling alone at night, especially in areas that are not well lit or safe.
- Only use trusted transportation such as taxis or other services.
- Keep your valuables such as your passport, money, and electronic devices in a safe and secure place.
- Be careful of scams, especially those involving money or offers that seem too good to be true.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your behavior in public.
- Learn some basic Dutch since it is the official language of Suriname.
- Stay informed of current events and news before travelling.
By following these tips, travellers can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Suriname.
Visiting Brownsberg Nature Park
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
Brownsberg Nature Park is a great place to visit if you’re a tourist in Suriname. It’s a big park with lots of cool things to see and do. You can go hiking on the trails to see beautiful views of the rainforest and the Brokopondo Reservoir. There are also many animals to see, like monkeys, jaguars, and birds. You can even swim in some of the waterfalls! If you want to spend more time in the park, you can camp there or stay in a cabin.
The park is also a great place to learn about the culture of the Maroon communities that live there. They have a unique way of life and you can learn a lot from them.
Brownsberg Nature Park is a special place that lets you experience the natural beauty of Suriname and learn about its people and wildlife. If you’re a nature lover or adventurer you should definitely visit Brownsberg Nature Park.
What Should I Take to Suriname?
If you are planning a trip to Suriname you should pack lightweight and breathable clothing made of cotton, such as shorts and T-shirts, and comfortable walking shoes. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella. Insect repellent with DEET or other effective ingredients is essential to keep away mosquitoes and other biting insects.
The sun can be intense, so bring sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen. A sturdy backpack to hold all your essentials is a good choice. If you take medications, bring enough for the duration of your trip, and a small first aid kit. Suriname’s power outlets are different, so bring a travel adapter.
Bring cash or credit cards because Suriname’s official currency is the Surinamese dollar. It’s also helpful to know a few basic phrases in Dutch or Sranan Tongo, the local Creole language.
Suriname is a beautiful country, and packing accordingly can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.
Canadian Embassy to Suriname
When travelling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the Canadian Embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
Canadian Embassy Paramaribo
Van’t Hogerhuysstraat 9-11,
VSH United Building, Entrance Nieuwe Haven,
Paramaribo, Suriname
Tel.: (597) 424-575/(597) 424-527
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Suriname
“Excellent service! The nurse is very knowledgeable and had prepared in advance for my Suriname consult. In addition to explaining and providing the recommended travel medication, she took the time to answer additional questions and provided a debrief package that explains the recommended vaccinations and travel medication in more detail. Courteous, professional and respectful of customer time.”
“The nurse who saw us was very knowledgeable, and not pushy at all about which options we should choose. She laid everything out on the table and explained the benefits and risks of all our vaccine options and even went over travel advisories for Suriname. On top of this, when we decided on which vaccines to get, she was very gentle administering them!”
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