Suriname is one of four non-Spanish-speaking South American nations and the only one that counts Dutch as its national language. And the capital, Paramaribo, does indeed conjure images of Old Amsterdam. However, despite the Dutch-influenced architecture, the city has a distinctly Caribbean vibe, evident in the colourful building facades and the profusion of tropical produce heaped at the markets.
The country’s inhabitants are the exotic descendants of European colonialists, escaped African slaves, Indonesian and Indian indentured workers, and native Ameri-Indians. Not surprisingly, this cultural mélange has created diversity in everything from food and music to religion.
Suriname has two distinct regions. Firstly the low-lying coastal region where the vast majority of the population lives. And second, the tropical interior, which is also home to the country’s two main mountain ranges. While travel to the interior is challenging and takes time, it is certainly worth it! Remote Indian villages, incredible pristine rainforests, and staggering wildlife lie in wait for adventurous travellers.
Are you looking to get off the beaten track and discover one of the world’s most exciting destinations? Then talk to one of our Travel Specialists about a holiday to the Guianas today.
When to go to Suriname?
– The two main dry seasons are February to April and August to November
– Wettest months are May to August
Our Expert’s Choice
– Paramaribo is a fascinating melting pot of cultures and well worth a few days’ explorations.
– You simply must visit one of the wonderful lodges that dot the interior for a chance to see some of the country’s famed wildlife.
– Discover the incredible history and fascinating culture of the Maroon people.
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We know Latin America by heart
Highlights
Paramaribo
Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, this has been placed on the UNESCO “World Heritage” list of historical monuments since 2002.
Maroon Culture
The Maroons are descendants of Africans who escaped the colonial Dutch plantations and established communities deep in the rainforest. Don’t miss a visit to one of these tiny villages to learn about Maroon culture and discover their fascinating history.
Danpaati River Lodge
This remote and traquil lodge is located more than 200km south of Paramaribo. Discover the untamed wilderness and extraordinary wildlife that Suriname possesses as you venture into the interior.
TOURS
The 3 Guianas – 2024 Fully Escorted Small Group Tour
Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana: the forgotten corner of South America
Tiny Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana offer a very different Latin American experience! Speaking English, Dutch and French respectively, these nations have a distinctly Caribbean culture. And each contains a cultural melange that has created diversity in everything from food and music to religion. Even better, they receive a tiny fraction of the tourists that their South American neighbours attract. So why not discover these fascinating destinations before the rest of the world catches on?
Guyana
All three of the Guianas are incredible destinations for the emerging ecotourism market with impressive waterfalls, lush rainforest and tropical wildlife. But the ex-British colony, Guyana, is perhaps the best for wildlife lovers. Because an incredible 80% of the country is covered by rainforest. And Guyana is also home to one of the regions few well-known attractions (relatively speaking!). Kaieteur Falls are a must-see for any visitor to this stunning country. And here’s a fun fact! Did you know that Guyana receives fewer tourists in a year than Machu Picchu does in a day??
Suriname
While in Guyana the population speaks English and are mad about cricket, in Suriname the national language is Dutch. Here, in Paramaribo, the capital city, travellers can see the Dutch heritage in the architecture that resembles the old Amsterdam. Just like Guyana, Suriname is also covered in the lush jungle. And we think a trip to Suriname is incomplete without a trip into the interior for a stay at a jungle lodge.
French Guiana
This overseas department of France uses euros and has regular flights to and from Paris. In fact, the country is better connected to Europe than the rest of South America! So it is worth spending a few days here to make the journey worthwhile. Whilst in French Guiana your clients can explore the Kourou Space Centre and maybe even be lucky enough to witness a space launch! And then there’s the infamous Devil’s Island (actually named Iles du Salut) made famous by the book & movie of the same name, Papillon. You can ever visit H’mong villages which were created by Vietnamese migrants after the Vietnam War.
If you want to give your clients a truly off-the-beaten track adventure, don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll help you design a unique holiday to Latin America’s most underrated nations.
Tiny Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana offer a very different Latin American experience! Why not discover these fascinating destinations before the rest of the world catches on?
One of the best things about planning a holiday to South and Central America is that Australians don’t require a visa for the vast majority of destinations! However, don’t forget that if you are travelling via the USA (even if you only remain in transit) you will need to apply for the USA ESTA Visa Waiver Authorisation.
Even though Australians can travel visa-free to most countries in South and Central America, there are a few notable exceptions. So let’s make sure you know what visas you need for Latin America. Let’s take a look!
*Please note that entry requirements change and while we make every effort to keep this information relevant, it is always best to check current requirements at Smart Traveller.
Brazil
From 10 April 2025, Australian passport holders will need a visa to enter Brazil. The application process is completed online via this website – you will need to upload scans of your passport, a passport photograph, and an itinerary. The cost is USD$80 per person and the visa is a multiple entry which is valid for five years.
Cuba
Australian passport holders require a visa to enter Cuba. This visa must be issued prior to departure. The visa to Cuba is a Tourist Card, which is valid for 30 days from the date of entry but can be extended in-country for a further 30 days.
We recommend at least four weeks for visa processing, so please get in touch to plan your next trip to Cuba and the details you need for your visa.
Please note that passengers arriving in Cuba direct from the USA are not allowed to enter on a tourist visa but must apply directly with their airline on check-in, under one of the 12 reasons to travel permissible under US law.
Travelling between the USA and Cuba: We advise all passengers to fly to Cuba via South America. As per 2021 US Government guidelines, passengers who have visited Cuba are not eligible to participate under the ESTA Visa Waiver program – they need to apply for a visa.
You will need: – Scanned page of passport photo/ personal details – Scanned passport photograph – Copy of your itinerary showing confirmed accommodation – A bank statement to prove financial solvency (showing the previous 3 months)
Applications can be submitted once you are within 90 days of entering Chile. We recommend you start this as soon as you possibly can as there are significant wait times for some areas.
Suriname
Thankfully, Suriname has recently dropped the visa requirement! However, on arrival into Suriname (and for each subsequent entry, if applicable), you need to pay the visitor entry fee. The fee is currently USD$25 or EUR$25 per person, plus a handling fee of US/EU$8 per person.
You can pay for this online via VFS Global (on working days 24 hours prior to the departure date.)
The good news is, with an Australian passport, you don’t need a visa for any other country in Latin America. This makes travel to Latin America easier than ever! Get in touch with us to start planning your next Latin American adventure.
Do Australians need a visa for South or Central America? The answer might surprise you! Travel to Latin American is much easier than most people think.
There’s a lot of competition out there! So why should you book with Contours Travel? With decades of experience, Contours Travel stands out as Australia’s longest-running and most trusted tour operator to Latin America. Here’s why choosing us ensures a holiday of a lifetime.
Australia’s Longest-Running Latin America Tour Operator
Since 1975, we’ve specialised exclusively in Latin America, from South America to Central America, Mexico, Cuba, and even Antarctica. With 50 years of expertise, our knowledge of the region is unparalleled.
We Know Latin America By Heart
Contours Travel owner and founder Ted Dziadkiewicz has travelled to Latin America more than 125 times! And every one of our Travel Specialists has travelled widely throughout the region. That’s why we feel confident in saying you’d be hard-pressed to find a better-travelled team of Latin American experts in Australia! As a matter of fact, there is only ONE country in all of Latin America that no member of our team has been to…..can you guess which one?
Tailor-Made Journeys, Designed Just for You
Every single member of the Contours Travel team has travelled extensively around Latin America. And because we’re all a little bit different – we’ve experienced this amazing continent in different ways.
Likewise, we encourage all our clients to discover Latin America in their own way. This means getting together with one of our expert consultants and discussing your must-see destinations, specific interests, budget, and preferred accommodation options. Then it’s time for us to get to work, creating a unique holiday designed specifically for you.
Tailor-made means no two journeys are exactly alike. We invite you to browse the many suggested, sample itineraries on our website for inspiration. Or better yet, give us a call. Our passionate Travel Specialists love sharing their enthusiasm for all things Latin America.
What’s your passion?
The reasons behind a trip can be as diverse as the people who decide to embark on the travel adventure. Birdwatchers, tango dancers, orchid growers, train enthusiasts, and cattle farmers. We’ve worked with them all to design unique special interest holidays. Book with Contours Travel and indulge in your unique passion! Browse our website for inspiration, or let one of our travel specialists create a bespoke journey just for you.
Embark on a journey of discovery aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer.
Exceptional Value for Money
We aim to provide the best value for money, regardless of whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge. Our long-established relationships with suppliers mean competitive prices & quality service. And we want to ensure you’re getting the best advice and the most competitive price at the moment you make an inquiry. That’s why there are no prices on our website!
Hassle-Free Travel with Expert Guidance
When you book with Contours Travel, we share our in-depth knowledge of Latin America so that you get even more out of your trip! Our comprehensive pre-departure kit includes a Spanish phrase book, suggested reading and restaurant lists & more! And of course, we provide you with 24/7 emergency contacts throughout your trip! So you don’t need to worry about a thing! Just relax, and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.
Hammock in Bariloche Lake District Patagonia Argentina
Committed to Ethical and Sustainable Travel
Contours Travel is committed to building a more sustainable tourism industry. We support local communities and encourage travellers to engage with social projectsduring their journey. Ask us how you can make your trip more meaningful.
Hear What Our Clients Say
Don’t just take our word for it—hundreds of satisfied clients and travel agents recommend Contours Travel. Join our community of happy travellers and see why we’ve been Australia’s Latin America experts for nearly 50 years.
