In planning mode - how much budget should I keep in mind for Suriname - any experiences?
Don't underestimate the cost of organized tours in Suriname, especially if you want to go to the jungle or visit the interior. I'd budget an extra $500 USD for a multi-day trip. A daily budget for just staying in Paramaribo could be $80 USD. You can get around on bikes very easily. I found the people incredibly friendly and helpful. I had a lot of luck using my Mastercard at the larger grocery stores and some restaurants, but local cash is a must for smaller purchases.
If you're a hardcore backpacker, you can get by on a tight budget in Suriname, maybe around $40-$50 USD a day. It’s all about staying at hostels like Guesthouse Amice, using shared taxis or buses, and eating at local warungs (food stalls). The country is incredibly diverse, and you can see a lot just by exploring Paramaribo and the surrounding Commewijne district by bike. I’d advise having a stash of US dollars and getting local currency from an ATM once you arrive.
My experience in Suriname was more mid-range, so my budget was a bit higher, around $120 to $150 USD per day. This included staying at a hotel like Hotel Torarica and doing a few guided tours into the Amazon rainforest. The costs for these tours can vary significantly, so shop around. The Surinamese Dollar (SRD) is the currency, but many tour operators and hotels accept US dollars. You can find ATMs for De Surinaamsche Bank and other banks in Paramaribo.
I'd say a good daily budget for Suriname is around $60 to $100 USD. Paramaribo is very walkable, especially the historic center. Taxis are common for longer trips and are quite cheap, just make sure to agree on the fare beforehand. I stayed at a small, family-run guesthouse and ate at street food stands, which kept my costs down. Try the local roti and pom, it's incredible. I used my Visa debit card at some of the bigger shops, but most places prefer cash.