Money and Currency in Suriname 2025

Money matters in Suriname: Everything you need to know for your holiday in 2025

Travelling to Suriname is a unique experience, but it is important to be well prepared in terms of money matters. In 2025, there will still be restrictions on the use of bank cards and credit cards, especially outside the big city. In this blog you can read all about the Surinamese currency, withdrawing money, paying and practical tips for your holiday.

What is the currency in Suriname?

The official currency is the Surinamese dollar, abbreviated SRD. One SRD consists of 100 cents. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 SRD.

In some shops and restaurants in the city – especially tourist locations – you can also use US dollars or euros. However, SRDs are usually needed for small expenses such as taxis, supermarkets or local warungs.

πŸ’‘ Please note: hotels and tours are usually priced in euros or dollars, not in SRD.

*Orange Travel allows you to pay in currency, transfer money or with a credit card (visa/master/amex)

Where can you exchange money?

You can safely exchange foreign currency at:

  • Local banks (official rate, but limited opening hours)
  • Cambio’s(exchange offices – fast and accessible)

🚫 Exchanging money at the airport or in hotels is not recommended – you often get an unfavorable rate there.

Orange Travel also offers its customers the option to pay for their booking in advance via a Surinamese or American bank account. Convenient and affordable.

Withdrawing money in Suriname: this is what you need to know

You cannot withdraw euros or dollars in Suriname, only SRD. There are ATMs in the coastal area, especially in Paramaribo and larger places.

βœ… Best Option: Republic Bank (Blue ATMs)

  • Reliable for Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro
  • Most POS machines in shops accept Visa and MasterCard (sometimes even AMEX)
  • Fewer malfunctions compared to other providers
  • ATMs are often better stocked than others

⚠️ Important Notes:

  • Max. SRD 20,000 per day, usually in two withdrawals of SRD 10,000
  • Cashpnt ATMs (red/grey) often do not accept foreign cards or are out of order
  • ATMs may run out of cash on weekends or at the end of the month – always bring enough cash with you

πŸ’Έ Can you use your debit card everywhere in Suriname?

Using a foreign debit card (Maestro, MasterCard, or Visa) is limited:

βœ… Available in:

  • Larger shops, restaurants, and supermarkets in Paramaribo

🚫 Not available in: Small local shops and markets Inland regions

  • Most Chinese supermarkets – cash is essential

Use SRD (Surinamese Dollars) whenever possible for local purchases.

πŸ’³ Do credit cards work in Suriname?

Credit cards (Visa or MasterCard) are only accepted at major tourist establishments, such as:

  • Larger hotels
  • Tour operators
  • Upscale restaurants

πŸ›‘ Note: A 5% surcharge is often added for credit card payments. Not all terminals accept foreign cards – always have a backup method of payment.

β‚Ώ What about crypto and digital payments?

  • Crypto payments are not widely accepted in Suriname
  • Orange Travel does not accept crypto
  • Ask our sales staff for current accepted payment options
  • Contactless payments are still limited – only possible at Republic Bank POS machines, and usually only for amounts up to USD $50

🧠 What to remember before and during your trip:

βœ”οΈ Always bring cash if you’re arriving on a weekend
βœ”οΈ Use Republic Bank (blue ATMs) for reliable withdrawals
βœ”οΈ Check your daily withdrawal limit with your bank before traveling
βœ”οΈ Use SRD for taxis, snacks, and local expenses
βœ”οΈ Don’t expect card payment options in remote areas
βœ”οΈ Pay for high-value services like tours in advance via bank transfer through Orange Travel

Suriname brings you back to basics – especially when it comes to payments. Be prepared: bring enough cash, withdraw smartly, and stay alert to card and payment limitations. That way, you can fully enjoy your vacation without unwanted surprises.