Suriname in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Suriname in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paramaribo | 30° | 23° | 112 mm | very high | Warm |
| Lelydorp | 30° | 23° | 180 mm | very high | Warm |
| Brokopondo | 30° | 22° | 198 mm | very high | Warm |
| Nieuw Nickerie | 31° | 23° | 160 mm | very high | Hot |
| Meerzorg | 30° | 23° | 181 mm | very high | Warm |
| Moengo | 30° | 22° | 217 mm | very high | Warm |
| Nieuw Amsterdam, Suriname | 30° | 23° | 199 mm | very high | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Coastal Lowlands (Paramaribo, Wanica, Commewijne, Albina)
December brings the short rainy season and greater unpredictability; heavy cloud cover and bursts of rain are common, but sunny breaks still occur often enough for city sightseeing. Paramaribo’s cultural calendar picks up around year-end, and indoor dining and markets are lively; backpackers should pack a rain jacket and expect muddy tracks on any plantation excursions. River levels rise and some smaller-dock services may be reduced during storms. Nighttime temperatures remain warm, so a light sheet and mosquito protection are essential.
Western Rice Belt & Bigi Pan Wetlands (Nickerie, Nieuw-Nickerie, Bigi Pan)
December marks the start of the short wet spell for the west coast with intermittent heavier showers; Bigi Pan re-floods in patches and the landscape grows greener. Nieuw-Nickerie can be humid and warm, and some local festivals occur in shelter or community halls when rain arrives. Ferry crossings are usually maintained but small-boat excursions can be curtailed during storms. For wildlife watchers, December’s renewed water brings activity back to formerly dry edges, but bring waterproof gear and expect buggy evenings.
Central Rainforest & Brokopondo (Brokopondo Reservoir, Brownsberg, Raleighvallen)
December brings the short rainy season back into the interior, with more frequent downpours and higher river levels; jungle lodges remain open but schedules can change around heavy weather. The Brokopondo Reservoir and surrounding rivers are lively and excellent for boat-based wildlife viewing, yet some overland routes are again slow or unpassable. For travelers who don’t mind wet conditions, December offers lush rainforest and active birdlife; just plan for wet gear, insect precautions and possible short delays in reaching remote sites.
Southern Highlands & Sipaliwini (Tafelberg, Julianatop, Sipaliwini Savanna)
December is typically the short-rainy pulse in the southern interior; regular downpours can reduce visibility on summit approaches and make remote airstrips uncertain. The combination of rain and elevation produces cool, misty mornings with dramatic cloud inversions above the canopy. For travelers willing to accept wet, remote conditions, the landscape is lush and wildlife activity is strong, but expect logistical slowdowns and the need for experienced local support. Warm layers, waterproof camping gear and patient timing are essential.