Best Times to Visit

Weather

The weather in Suriname is hot and humid all year, cooled by the northeast trade winds. The best time to visit is during either the long dry season (August to October) or the short dry season (February to April).

The rainy seasons last from May to July and from November to January. As Suriname lies outside the hurricane zone, the most extreme weather condition is a heavy rain shower known as the sibibusi (forest broom).

Visitors are advised to bring lightweight clothing and rainwear.

More information on the Surinamese weather can be found in Climate in Suriname.

Festivals

Festivals in Suriname celebrate the major events in the Christian, Hindu and Muslim calendars. The colourful End of Surifesta welcomes the new year with dancing and musical performances. Carnival, in February/March, is a riotous time. Independence Day is 25 November.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Suriname:

Date Holiday
1 January New Year's Day
February/March (variable) Holi (Phagwa) or Festival of Colours
March/April (variable) Good Friday
March/April (variable) Easter Monday
1 May Labour Day
1 July Abolition of Slavery Day
25 November Independence Day
25-26 December Christmas
Variable* Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)