Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Zandery. Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 135 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Zandery, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Suriname vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Zandery is roughly 135 minutes from PBM via Taxi / Airport Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SRD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Zandery
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Zandery, two standouts are:
- Historic Inner City of Paramaribo (Quick View) — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Palmentuin (Palm Garden) — Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PBM, check out Surinam Airways Executive Lounge or Duty-Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
The Best Way Into Zandery from PBM
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Airport Shuttle | ~135 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~155 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Airport Shuttle is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
In Zandery
If you make it into town, Saramacca Huis Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurant De Waag.
Inside PBM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Restaurant Zanderij is your main option. Cafeteria PBM works too if you want something quick.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Zandery might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Zandery, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PBM for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Zandery 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at PBM can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Zandery for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PBM
Long overnight layover? Your options at PBM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Suriname also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Zandery is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Zandery.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.