Suriname in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Suriname
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- February is peak dry season for the interior rainforest - river levels are perfect for accessing remote lodges and wildlife viewing platforms are at their most stable
- Sea turtle nesting season begins on Galibi Nature Reserve beaches - February offers the best weather for overnight turtle watching tours without the heavy rains of March-May
- Mango season peaks in February - local markets overflow with 15+ varieties of mangoes at rock-bottom prices (SRD 2-5 per kg vs SRD 15+ imported fruit)
- Chinese New Year celebrations in Paramaribo's Southeastasia create the year's most busy cultural events, with traditional lion dances and authentic Hakka-Surinamese fusion foods
Considerations
- February is carnival season - accommodation prices in Paramaribo jump 40-60% during carnival weeks, and many local businesses close for 3-4 days
- Interior rainforest temperatures reach daily peaks of 35°C (95°F) with 85% humidity - afternoon jungle activities become challenging for most visitors
- Tourist boat schedules to interior destinations reduce frequency due to low water levels on some tributaries - expect 2-3 departures per week instead of daily options
Best Activities in February
Central Suriname Nature Reserve Wildlife Tours
February's dry conditions create optimal wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. Morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) make dawn birding tours comfortable, and reduced river levels expose sandy beaches where jaguars and giant otters are more easily spotted. Afternoon rains cool the forest to 28°C (82°F), perfect for evening wildlife walks.
Galibi Sea Turtle Watching Tours
February marks the beginning of leatherback turtle nesting season on Galibi beaches. Weather is ideal - minimal rainfall (only 165mm/6.5 inches vs 300mm+ in peak season) means beach camping is comfortable and turtle tracking is easier. Night temperatures drop to pleasant 25°C (77°F) for overnight beach stays.
Paramaribo Historic District Food Tours
February's mango season transforms local cuisine - street vendors serve fresh mango chutney with bara (fried bread) and seasonal Javanese rujak salads. Afternoon showers cool the city from 30°C (86°F) to 26°C (79°F), making evening food walking tours comfortable. Chinese New Year adds special dim sum and traditional Hakka dishes unavailable other months.
Brownsberg Nature Park Hiking
February offers the year's best hiking conditions at 500m (1,640 ft) elevation. Temperatures stay 3-4°C cooler than Paramaribo, and morning mist creates spectacular photography opportunities. Waterfalls run at moderate levels - not the torrents of rainy season but full enough for swimming in 24°C (75°F) natural pools.
Commewijne River Plantation Tours
February's lower water levels make colonial plantation ruins more accessible by boat and foot. Temperatures peak at 29°C (84°F) but river breezes and afternoon cooling showers create comfortable touring conditions. Sugarcane harvest season adds working plantation experiences unavailable other times.
Jodensavanne Archaeological Site Visits
February's dry weather provides the year's best access to this 17th-century Jewish settlement ruins. River levels expose stone foundations usually underwater, and reduced humidity (70% vs 90% in rainy season) makes the 2km (1.2 mile) walking trail comfortable. Afternoon temperatures of 28°C (82°F) are ideal for exploring historical sites.
February Events & Festivals
Suriname Carnival (Carnaval)
February hosts Suriname's biggest cultural celebration with elaborate costume parades, steel pan competitions, and street parties throughout Paramaribo. The celebration blends Afro-Surinamese, Dutch, and Caribbean traditions with unique local elements like kaseko music performances.
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Paramaribo's substantial Chinese-Surinamese community celebrates with traditional lion dances, temple ceremonies at the Fo Guang Shan temple, and special Hakka-Surinamese fusion dishes. Southeastasia decorates with lanterns and hosts cultural performances.