January is warm and humid with frequent short showers, particularly along the coast and in interior rainforest areas. Travel is possible but expect intermittent rain and higher mosquito activity.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
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Average temperature across Suriname in January.
Where to Go in Suriname in January
Coastal Lowlands
Paramaribo, Wanica, Commewijne, Albina
Humidity is high and the coastal plain often feels muggy in January, with warm nights around 24-26°C and daytime highs near 30°C. Paramaribo’s colonial streets are green from recent rains; river ferries on the Suriname and Commewijne rivers run normally though short squalls can suddenly reduce visibility. The short rainy season around late December-January still lingers, so pack a light waterproof and expect mosquitoes around mangrove edges. For museums, restaurants and city walking tours this is still a practical month, but inland boat trips may be splashy.
Western Rice Belt & Bigi Pan Wetlands
Nickerie, Nieuw-Nickerie, Bigi Pan
January usually brings muggy, warm weather to Nickerie with occasional heavy showers; rice fields remain wet and vibrant after the short rains. Nieuw-Nickerie’s coastal roads can have puddles, but birding at Bigi Pan remains excellent as migratory and resident waterfowl use the flooded lagoons. Ferry and road links to nearby fishing villages operate normally, though expect mosquitoes in evenings; lightweight waterproofs and rubber-soled shoes are useful for mud on farm roads.
Central Rainforest & Brokopondo
Brokopondo Reservoir, Brownsberg, Raleighvallen
January in the central rainforest is warm and humid, with frequent tropical downpours that keep trails lush and rivers high - Brownsberg’s viewpoints are dramatic but muddy. Boat trips on the Brokopondo Reservoir often run, though expect spray and wet decks; waterfalls like those around Raleighvallen flow strongly and are spectacular. Small eco-lodges continue to operate but overland transfers from Paramaribo may be slower due to saturated tracks. Bring sturdy waterproof trekking boots and expect mosquitoes at dusk.
Southern Highlands & Sipaliwini
Tafelberg, Julianatop, Sipaliwini Savanna
January in the southern highlands is warm but cloudier than the lowlands; afternoon rains are frequent and trails on Tafelberg are often wet and mist-shrouded. Flights to mountain airstrips can be delayed by low cloud, so inland itineraries need flexible timing; waterfalls around the escarpments are full and dramatic. Nights are cooler at altitude - layers are useful - and the overall feeling is deep jungle humidity with refreshing breezes above the canopy. Bring sturdy boots and waterproof outer layers.
Events & Festivals in January
Paramaribo Carnival (preparations)
Carnival events and parades occur around this period in Paramaribo, with main parades often in February or March.
Planning a trip to Suriname?
See how January compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
