If you’ve got a layover in Drietabbetje, don’t let it go to waste sitting at DRJ. The city, in Suriname, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave DRJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Suriname. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Drietabbetje takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SRD. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Drietabbetje Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Bag Storage Near DRJ
Dedicated luggage storage at DRJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Drietabbetje’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Drietabbetje, budget roughly $17 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $2 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Drietabbetje
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Drietabbetje, two standouts are:
- Drietabbetje Village Walk — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
- Tapanahony River Bank Exploration — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Drietabbetje.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DRJ, you can spend time at DRJ Terminal Waiting Area or try Aircraft Spotting at Drietabbetje Airstrip. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Local Drietabbetje Eatery and Community Guesthouse Kitchen are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Drietabbetje.
- At the airport: Airstrip Snack and Drink Stand and Coffee and Refreshments Corner will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at DRJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Drietabbetje or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at DRJ
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at DRJ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Drietabbetje genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.