Senior travel: Paramaribo
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
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Pace for a day
About 3 stops a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 45 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Independence Square and the Presidential PalaceStep-free: yes · about 30 minNone.
- Palmentuin (palm garden)Step-free: yes · about 45 minNone.
- Mosque and synagogue on KeizerstraatStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 30 minA few steps.
- St Peter and Paul CathedralStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 30 minA few steps.
- Fort ZeelandiaStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 75 minA few steps at the gate.
- Central MarketStep-free: no (check before you go) · about 60 minSteps and uneven floors.
Getting around in Paramaribo
Paramaribo is hard going on wheels. Pavements are uneven, drains are open, and many wooden buildings have steps.
- Pavements:
- Broken tiles, open drains and parked cars; the riverfront promenade is the smoothest.
- Transport:
- Taxis are the practical choice; buses are crowded and not step-free.
- Buildings:
- Historic buildings have steps and narrow doors; ask ahead.
Medicines and health on the ground
The Suriname guide lists no medicine paperwork. Check the official customs page for your medicines.
- Mosquitoes:
- Dengue and other infections occur; use repellent and cover up at dusk.
- Vaccines:
- Yellow fever vaccination is recommended; ask a travel clinic about malaria advice for the interior.
- Water:
- Tap water is treated in the city, but visitors usually drink bottled water.
- Heat:
- Drink water regularly, use air conditioning at midday and avoid the sun between 11:00 and 15:00.
- Food:
- Eat at busy places; skip raw salads in small stalls.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.