Suriname, nestled on the northeastern coast of South America, is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty and cultural richness. Its pristine rainforests, teeming with diverse wildlife, offer unparalleled opportunities for eco-tourism. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases breathtaking landscapes and a variety of species, from jaguars to exotic birds. Paramaribo, the capital, blends colonial architecture with vibrant street markets, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. The Surinamese people, with their warm hospitality, enhance the charm of visiting this unique nation. Adventure seekers can explore the mighty Suriname River, engage in thrilling water sports, or embark on treks through dense jungles, making Suriname an emerging destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. As of August 2024, Suriname citizens can travel to 79 destinations visa-free, opening up a world of possibilities for exploration and adventure.
The official estimate for Suriname’s GDP at the end of 2023 was reported to be $12 billion in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms. This figure provides a baseline understanding of the country’s economic size and potential.
However, World Economics has taken a more nuanced approach to calculating GDP. They have developed an extensive database that not only presents GDP in PPP terms but also includes additional estimates for the size of the informal economy. This adjustment is crucial as the informal economy often represents a significant portion of economic activity that is not captured in official statistics. Moreover, World Economics adjusts for outdated GDP base year data, ensuring a more accurate and contemporary reflection of the economy’s true size.
According to World Economics’ refined methodology, Suriname’s GDP is estimated to be $16 billion. This figure is 39% larger than the official estimates, highlighting substantial economic activity that may have been previously overlooked. This significant adjustment underscores the importance of considering various factors and methodologies when assessing a country’s economic health and potential.
The 2023 data is based on growth rate estimates from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which have been applied to World Economics’ adjusted GDP figures. This integration of IMF growth rates ensures that the estimates remain relevant and reflective of the most recent economic trends and projections.
The revenue in Suriname’s travel and tourism market is projected to experience continuous growth from 2024 to 2029, with an overall increase of $3.3 million USD, representing a 40.15 percent rise. This consistent upward trend is expected to culminate in 2029, marking the ninth consecutive year of growth. By then, the revenue is estimated to reach a new peak of $11.52 million USD.
Visa-On-Arrival
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Suriname experienced its highest outbound tourism expenditure of the past decade in 2015, with international tourists from the country spending a total of $128 million USD at their destinations. By the end of the 2010s, Suriname’s spending on international tourism had decreased to $94 million USD, with approximately $7 million USD allocated to passenger transport expenses. In 2019, Suriname’s population was approximately 580,000 inhabitants.
Top Outbound Destinations are as follows :
Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport
Location and Overview: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM), also known as Zanderij International Airport, is located approximately 45 kilometers south of Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname. It is the main international gateway into and out of Suriname.
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Location and Overview: Zorg en Hoop Airport (ORG) is a smaller airport located within Paramaribo. It primarily caters to domestic flights and some regional destinations.
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Overview: Suriname Airways, or SLM (Surinaamse Luchtvaart Maatschappij), is the national airline of Suriname. Established in 1955, it operates both domestic and international flights.
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KLM Royal Dutch Airlines:
American Airlines:
Copa Airlines:
Other Regional Airlines:
Services: These airlines provide essential services and facilitate tourism and business travel within the region.
Overview: Several regional airlines operate flights to Suriname, enhancing connectivity within the Caribbean and South America.
In terms of infrastructure, Suriname is well-served by key airports such as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport and Zorg en Hoop Airport. These airports, coupled with the services of the national carrier Suriname Airways and other international airlines, ensure robust connectivity. This network supports both domestic and international travel, promoting tourism and economic exchange. The combination of natural beauty, economic initiatives, and strong aviation infrastructure positions Suriname as a promising player in the global tourism landscape.
