Suriname Weather by Month

Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, French Guiana to the east, Brazil to the south, and Guyana to the west. It covers approximately 163,820 square kilometers, making it the smallest sovereign country in South America. Suriname is part of the Guiana Shield, known for its dense tropical rainforests, which cover around 90% of the country. The northern coastal area, where most of the population resides, consists of low-lying, swampy terrain, while the southern part of the country is dominated by highland rainforests and savannahs.

Suriname has a tropical climate with little variation in temperature throughout the year, remaining warm and humid due to its proximity to the equator. The country experiences two main rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The coastal plains, river valleys, and rainforests create distinct microclimates, affecting weather patterns from month to month. The rainy seasons are characterized by heavy rainfall, while the dry seasons offer more stable and pleasant weather conditions.

Suriname Weather by Month

January

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Rainfall: High rainfall due to the long rainy season, particularly in coastal areas

January falls in the middle of Suriname’s long rainy season, which starts in December and extends through early February. During this time, the country experiences heavy rainfall, especially in the coastal regions. The rain typically comes in the form of intense downpours, often occurring in the afternoon or evening, followed by periods of sunshine. The inland rainforest areas also receive significant rainfall, though the dense vegetation helps regulate the temperature.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions (Paramaribo, Nieuw Nickerie): Heavy rain, with temperatures ranging from 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Inland regions (Brokopondo, Upper Suriname): Warm and wet, with temperatures between 23-28°C (73-82°F)
• Savannah areas (Sipaliwini): Slightly drier than the coast, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)

January is not an ideal month for outdoor activities due to the frequent rain, but it is perfect for experiencing Suriname’s lush rainforests and witnessing the vibrant biodiversity the rains bring.

February

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Rainfall: Rainfall begins to decrease, marking the end of the long rainy season

February is a transitional month in Suriname, as the long rainy season begins to taper off. Rainfall is still significant, but the frequency of downpours lessens as the month progresses. Coastal regions, including Paramaribo, may still experience regular rain, while inland areas and the savannahs start to dry out. Temperatures remain warm and relatively stable across the country.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Rainy but improving, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Inland regions: Wet, with occasional sunny spells, temperatures between 23-28°C (73-82°F)
• Savannah areas: Warmer and slightly drier, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)

February offers more opportunities for travel and exploration as the rainy season subsides, making it a good month to visit Suriname’s coastal cities and inland rainforests.

March

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: Relatively dry, with short, sporadic showers

March is part of Suriname’s short dry season, which runs from February to April. During this time, rainfall is significantly reduced, and the country experiences more sunny days, especially in the coastal regions. The inland areas, including the rainforests, also see a decrease in rain, though some showers may still occur, particularly in the southern regions. Temperatures remain warm and tropical, making March an excellent time for outdoor activities.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Mostly dry and sunny, with temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Inland regions: Warm with occasional light rain, temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F)

March is an ideal time for travel to Suriname, especially for those looking to explore the country’s cultural and natural attractions without the heavy rains.

April

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Rainfall: End of the short dry season, with rain starting to increase toward the end of the month

April marks the end of Suriname’s short dry season, with rainfall gradually increasing toward the end of the month as the country transitions into the long rainy season. The first half of April remains relatively dry, but by the second half, more frequent showers return, particularly in the coastal and rainforest regions. Temperatures remain high, with increased humidity due to the approaching rains.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and humid, with increasing rain toward the end of the month, temperatures between 25-31°C (77-88°F)
• Inland regions: Warm with more frequent showers, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Savannah areas: Slightly drier than other regions, with temperatures between 25-31°C (77-88°F)

April is a transitional month, offering a balance between dry weather and the lush greenery brought by the rains, making it a good time for nature-based tourism.

May

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: Start of the long rainy season, with frequent heavy showers

May signals the beginning of Suriname’s long rainy season, which lasts until mid-August. Rainfall becomes more frequent and intense, particularly in the coastal and rainforest areas. The downpours are often short but heavy, contributing to higher humidity levels. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, and there are still periods of sunshine between the showers.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Heavy rain, with temperatures ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Inland regions: Frequent rain, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm with some rain, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)

May is the beginning of the wet season, making it challenging for outdoor activities, but it’s an excellent time to experience the lush, green landscapes that thrive during the rains.

June

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: Heavy and frequent rain, particularly in coastal and rainforest areas

June is one of the wettest months in Suriname, as the long rainy season is in full swing. Heavy rains fall regularly, particularly in the afternoons and evenings, often causing rivers to swell. The rainforests are at their most vibrant during this time, with the increased rainfall supporting the dense vegetation and diverse wildlife. Coastal areas are also wet, with short periods of sunshine between showers.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Very wet, with temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Inland regions: Rainy and humid, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Savannah areas: Wet but slightly less rainfall than the coast, with temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)

June is a challenging month for travel, as the heavy rains can disrupt transportation and outdoor activities. However, it is ideal for those interested in ecotourism and exploring Suriname’s rainforests and wildlife.

July

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Rainfall: Heavy rainfall continues, especially in the rainforest regions

July remains part of the long rainy season, with frequent downpours and high humidity levels. The rain is heaviest in the rainforest areas, while the coastal regions experience regular showers. The lushness of the rainforests is at its peak, and rivers and waterfalls are flowing at their highest, making it a great time to witness the natural beauty of Suriname, though the heavy rains can be challenging for travel.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Heavy rain, with temperatures between 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Inland regions: Very wet, with temperatures between 23-28°C (73-82°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm with some rain, temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)

July is a good time for eco-adventures and exploring Suriname’s biodiversity, though it’s important to be prepared for frequent rain.

August

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Rainfall: End of the long rainy season, rain begins to decrease toward the end of the month

August is a transitional month in Suriname as the long rainy season comes to an end. The beginning of the month still experiences frequent rain, but rainfall begins to decrease toward the latter half of August. The weather remains warm, with lower rainfall leading to more periods of sunshine. The inland areas and rainforests remain humid, though the coastal areas become slightly drier.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Rainy at the start of the month, with decreasing showers toward the end, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Inland regions: Humid and wet, with temperatures between 24-29°C (75-84°F)
• Savannah areas: Slightly drier than other regions, with temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)

August marks the end of the rainy season, making it a good time for travelers looking to explore Suriname’s natural beauty with fewer interruptions from rain.

September

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Rainfall: Start of the short dry season, significantly less rainfall

September marks the beginning of Suriname’s short dry season, which lasts until November. Rainfall decreases significantly, and the weather becomes more stable and predictable. Coastal regions and inland areas experience more sunshine, though occasional showers can still occur. The decrease in humidity and rain makes September an excellent month for travel and outdoor activities.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and mostly dry, with temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Inland regions: Warm with occasional rain, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F)

September is an ideal month for exploring Suriname’s cities, nature reserves, and cultural sites, as the weather is dry and pleasant.

October

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Rainfall: Dry season continues, with minimal rain

October is part of the short dry season, with warm temperatures and little rain across Suriname. The weather is perfect for outdoor exploration, as the humidity is lower and the skies are clearer. Coastal areas, as well as the rainforests, enjoy drier conditions, making it an excellent time for activities like hiking, birdwatching, and visiting historical sites.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Inland regions: Warm with occasional light rain, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 25-31°C (77-88°F)

October is one of the best months for travel in Suriname, offering ideal conditions for both coastal relaxation and inland exploration.

November

General Overview

• Average temperature: 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Rainfall: End of the short dry season, occasional showers

November marks the end of the short dry season in Suriname, with rainfall increasing slightly toward the end of the month. The first part of November remains dry and warm, making it a great time for outdoor activities and travel. However, as the month progresses, there may be occasional showers, particularly in the coastal and rainforest areas.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Warm with increasing rain toward the end of the month, temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F)
• Inland regions: Warm with occasional showers, temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)
• Savannah areas: Warm and dry for most of the month, temperatures between 24-31°C (75-88°F)

November is a good month for travel, especially in the early part, before the rains return in full force.

December

General Overview

• Average temperature: 23-30°C (73-86°F)
• Rainfall: Start of the long rainy season, frequent showers

December marks the beginning of Suriname’s long rainy season, with heavy showers becoming more frequent as the month progresses. The coastal regions, as well as the inland rainforests, experience regular rainfall, though there are still periods of sunshine. Temperatures remain warm, but the increased humidity can make the weather feel more oppressive.

Regional Differences

• Coastal regions: Wet, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F)
• Inland regions: Very wet, with temperatures between 23-29°C (73-84°F)
• Savannah areas: Slightly drier, with temperatures between 24-30°C (75-86°F)

December is a challenging month for travel due to the onset of the rainy season, but the rains bring lush greenery and vibrant wildlife, making it a great time for ecotourism.

Summary of Suriname’s Climate by Region

Coastal Regions (Paramaribo, Nieuw Nickerie)

• Best months: September to November (dry and warm)
• Wettest months: May to July (heavy rainfall)

Inland Regions (Brokopondo, Upper Suriname)

• Best months: September to November (dry and mild)
• Wettest months: May to July (heavy rain)

Savannah Areas (Sipaliwini)

• Best months: September to November (dry and warm)
• Wettest months: May to July (heavy rain, but slightly less than the coast)

Suriname has a tropical climate with little variation in temperature throughout the year. The country experiences two rainy seasons (December to February and May to mid-August) and two dry seasons (February to April and September to November). The best time to visit Suriname is during the dry seasons, when rainfall is minimal and the weather is perfect for exploring the country’s rich biodiversity, rainforests, and cultural heritage.