Driving is one of the best ways to explore the country, but it's essential to understand the road conditions in Suriname before you begin. In Paramaribo, roads are paved, yet they are often crowded with traffic and pedestrians. Beyond the capital, highways can have potholes, weak lighting, and sudden bends. Meanwhile, interior tracks are mostly unpaved dirt roads through the rainforest. Knowing these conditions helps you travel safely and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Public transport is limited, which makes renting a car in Suriname the most practical choice. With your own vehicle, you can reach major highways like the East-West Link and discover hidden areas outside the city. Our guide will highlight the driving rules, highways, infrastructure updates, and practical tips for driving in Suriname.
Before starting your journey, you need to know the road safety in Suriname. Understanding the rules can help you avoid accidents, fines, and unwanted encounters with the police.
People drive on the left side of the road in Suriname. This is important because many cars have left-hand drive, making it harder to overtake. Drivers from other countries need their home country's driver's license and an International Driving Permit. You can't drive legally without these two papers. Always have your documents with you because the police can ask for them at checkpoints.
Everyone in the car must wear a seatbelt. Children must have the correct child seat, and ignoring this rule can result in fines. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a proper hands-free device. These regulations are strictly enforced to protect both locals and visitors. Following them reduces the risk of injury and penalties.
Speed is monitored using the metric system, so signs show kilometres per hour. Limits are set at 90 km/h on highways, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 40 km/h in urban areas. For clarity, remember that 1 mile equals 1.609 kilometres. Since 2025, major highways have also had speed cameras installed.
Understanding the main roads helps you plan better for first time driving in Suriname. Suriname has around 4,500 kilometres of roads, but about 75% are unpaved. The paved highways connect the capital with important regions and neighbouring countries. Some of these routes are in good shape, while others may require caution.
The Afobakaweg Highway is an important road connecting Paranam with the Afobaka Dam. It has two branches, one leading to Brokopondo and another to Brownsweg and Pokigron. Another major route is the East-West Link Road, which runs across the country from Albina to Nieuw Nickerie. This paved road makes cross-country travel possible. Finally, the Desiré Delano Bouterse Highway, opened in 2020, is the only multi-lane motorway. It links Paramaribo with the international airport and offers the smoothest drive in the country.
Suriname’s road network also connects with its neighbours through ferries. From Nieuw Nickerie, you can reach Crabwood Creek in Guyana, while Albina connects to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana. You must carry full travel documents and a tourist card when crossing into French Guiana. This is checked at roadblocks near the border, so ensure you are prepared.
There are no toll roads in Suriname as of 2025. All highways and motorways are free to use for all vehicles. The government funds improvements through the national budget and international loans. Even the new Desiré Delano Bouterse Highway and the entire East-West Link system are toll-free.
Knowing the road conditions in Suriname is very important before you begin your journey. Roads in the capital can be very different from rural or interior routes. Seasonal weather and the quality of maintenance also play a big part in how safe your drive will be. This section highlights the main challenges you can expect on the road.
Paramaribo, the capital city, has the heaviest traffic in the country. Expect crowded roads, frequent stops, and pedestrians crossing outside marked lanes. Many traffic lights are broken or not functional. Although the major roads are paved, you will often find potholes. Some areas of Paramaribo are considered unsafe, so if you are not sure of your route, you can ask your rental company for help or even follow a taxi.
Once you leave Paramaribo, you will see how different the roads are. The main highway from Nieuw Nickerie to Albina often has slow vehicles and animals on the road. Driving here at night is not safe due to sharp bends and poor lighting. In the interior, most roads are dirt tracks through rainforest. They have no street lights, fuel stations, or rest stops, so you must travel prepared. During the rainy season, these routes can become very hard to drive. A 4WD vehicle is often required to pass through muddy sections.
Suriname has two rainy seasons: from mid-November to January, and from April to July. These months cause road conditions to worsen, with large crater holes forming quickly. Rural roads may flood, and dirt tracks in the interior can become impassable. Even in Paramaribo, heavy rain can increase delays and traffic jams. If you plan a long drive, check the weather before leaving, and always allow extra time.
Many foreign visitors find the driving culture challenging. Speeding, ignoring rules, and sudden manoeuvres are common. Overtaking can be dangerous because most vehicles are left-hand drive, even though traffic keeps to the left. You should stay alert for animals, bicycles, and pedestrians crossing at unexpected points.
To understand road safety in Suriname, you should also know the latest infrastructure developments. In recent years, the government has worked on highways and bridges to improve travel conditions. These projects focus on safety, maintenance, and keeping the network toll-free for all drivers.
Opened in May 2020, the Desiré Delano Bouterse Highway remains Suriname’s only multi-lane motorway. It connects Paramaribo to the international airport. The road is in excellent condition, with a speed limit of 80 km/h. As the country’s newest highway, it gives visitors one of the smoothest driving experiences.
The East-West Link stretches from Albina to Nieuw Nickerie and has been fully paved since 2009. Maintenance projects continue to upgrade sections and replace older bridges. These bridge replacements improve both safety and capacity for vehicles transporting goods.
In 2025, the government also installed speed cameras on major highways. These are meant to reduce excessive speeding, one of the biggest causes of accidents. Cameras help ensure better road safety in Suriname and create safer conditions for locals and visitors. Although some rural roads remain poor, these changes show progress towards a more secure driving environment.
When planning your trip, you must prepare well for your first time driving in Suriname. The rules and road situations may feel very different from those in your home country. These tips will help you stay safe, avoid stress, and enjoy your journey.
The type of car you choose will affect your comfort and safety. A regular vehicle is usually fine for city driving in Paramaribo. However, if you plan to go into rural or interior areas, ask about a 4WD vehicle. Many of these roads are dirt tracks and can become muddy during the rainy season. Always tell your rental company your planned route. They can help you choose the right vehicle and give advice on road conditions in Suriname.
Driving at night in Suriname is risky, especially on the highway between Nieuw Nickerie and Albina. Roads have sharp bends, poor lighting, and large potholes. If you are unsure about your route, ask the rental company if they can provide a driver, or follow a taxi to your destination.
To cross into French Guiana, you must have a tourist card and carry full travel documents. These are often checked at roadblocks near the border. Without them, you may face delays or fines. Keep your International Driving Permit and home licence with you at all times.
Driving in Suriname is a rewarding way to explore the country, but you must prepare for the advantages and the challenges. The capital has heavy traffic and frequent delays, while the interior has long dirt tracks with no lights or services. By learning the road conditions in Suriname, you can plan better for your trip. Ready to hit the road? Rent a car in Suriname with Final Rentals and pick-up your vehicle at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, Zorg en Hoop Airport, or Eduard Alexander Gummels Airport. Choose from compact cars or rugged 4x4s and book online with instant confirmation and no hidden fees.
