Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Suriname

Become an expert in curating Caribbean memories

Saba

Saba, the stunning Dutch Caribbean island known as “The Unspoiled Queen,” is a hidden gem full of unexpected experiences, making it the ideal spot for an unforgettable adventure. With its warm Caribbean hospitality, authentic charm, and abundance of outdoor activities, now is the perfect time to plan and discover Saba. Located just 12 minutes by air or a scenic 90-minute ferry ride from St. Maarten, the island offers world-class diving, incredible hiking, and a rich cultural scene. It soars 5,000 feet from the seafloor, of which 3,000 feet are visible. With a population of just over 1,800, Saba is comprised of four main villages.

Sint Eustatius (Statia)

Sint Eustatius, also known as Statia, is a small Dutch Caribbean island that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and history. The island is best visited from December through May during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant for hiking and diving. The Quill Volcano, a dormant volcano, is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the island’s volcanic landscape.

Suriname

Suriname’s tourism is a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The country’s diverse population—comprising Indigenous, African, Javanese, and Chinese communities—contributes to its unique cultural tapestry.

U.S. Travelers – Entry Requirements

Travelers from the United States to Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Suriname must meet the following requirements:

Pro Travel Tips!

Passport:

Valid U.S. passport required for the entire duration of stay with at least two blank pages

Visa:

No visa required for short-term tourism; visa-free stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period

Purpose of Trip:

Tourism and family visits

Accommodation:

Return ticket and accommodation address required

Sufficient Funds:

Minimum of USD $1,000 per week

Guarantor:

Required if no onward flight ticket from the Caribbean Netherlands

Additional Info:

Travelers should consult the U.S. Department of State and the Caribbean Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service for the most current requirements

Note: Travelers should always check for additional requirements based on nationality or circumstances

Official Currency

The official currency of Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Suriname is the U.S. Dollar (USD), adopted on January 1, 2011, replacing the Netherlands Antillean Guilder. The USD is the sole accepted currency on Saba.

Time Zone

  • Atlantic Standard Time (AST)

How to Get There

  • United Airlines
  • JetBlue Airways
  • Windward Islands Airways

Official Language

The Caribbean Netherlands consists of three special municipalities: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

  • Saba & Sint Eustatius: English and local English Creole widely spoken
  • Bonaire: Papiamento (Portuguese-based language)
  • Official Languages: Dutch and English

Climate

Saba

  • Warm year-round Caribbean climate
  • Summer (Jun–Sep): Avg. 82°F
  • Winter: Avg. 79°F
  • Night temperatures rarely below 68°F

Sint Eustatius

  • Avg. daytime temps: 27°C (Feb) to 30°C (Sep)
  • Annual rainfall: ~879 mm
  • High humidity, peak around October
  • Best travel months: January–June, August–December

Suriname

  • Equatorial climate: hot, humid, abundant rainfall
  • Rainy season: December–mid August (peak May–June)
  • Dry season: Late August–mid November

Local Customs and Sayings Visitors Should Know

Saba

Cultural Diversity:

Influenced by English, Scottish, African, and Dutch heritage

Language:

Dutch and English are official; Papiamento commonly understood

Dress & Manners:

Casual, lightweight clothing; respectful attitude encouraged

Greetings:

Friendly greetings are customary

Cuisine:

Fresh seafood and local produce; notable dishes include apple turnover

Sint Eustatius

Dress Code:

Modest dress, especially at religious sites

Greetings:

Warm smile and respectful nod

Cultural Respect:

Learning basic Dutch or Papiamento phrases appreciated

Cuisine:

Goat Water, Conch and Dumplings, Johnny Cakes, Saltfish

Activities:

Festivals, hiking, cave exploration, snorkeling

Suriname

Greetings:

Handshake with eye contact; respectful titles for elders

Religion:

Multi-religious society—respect practices and customs

Language:

Dutch (official); Sranan Tongo, Hindi, Javanese widely spoken

Food Customs:

Try diverse dishes; wait for host to begin meals

Cultural Respect:

Follow local cues, especially in Maroon communities

Ideal Clients for the Destination

Saba:

Eco-tourists, adventure seekers, hikers, diversTravelers seeking authentic, peaceful experiences

Sint Eustatius:

Travelers seeking tranquility, history, eco-tourism, and volcanic landscapes

Suriname:

Responsible travelers interested in culture, nature, eco-tourism, and local cuisine

Entry Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens

Saba:

Passport valid 6 months after departureVisa-free entry for many countries (up to 90 days)Proof of return ticket, funds, and lodging requiredTravel insurance recommended

Sint Eustatius:

Passport valid for duration of stay (6 months recommended)Visa-free up to 90 days for eligible nationalitiesProof of accommodation, funds (~$1,000/week), and return ticket required

Suriname:

E-Tourist Card or E-Visa required (apply online via VFS Global Suriname)Yellow Fever Certificate required for travelers from risk countriesDigital Immigration & Customs Form (ICF): Must be completed at least 3 days before departureLimited police presence outside Paramaribo; caution advised

Three Must-Do Experiences

Saba:

Hike Mount Scenery – highest point in the Kingdom of the NetherlandsExplore Saba National Marine Park – diving and snorkelingVisit Windwardside village

Sint Eustatius:

Hike The Quill VolcanoExplore Statia National Marine ParkVisit Oranjestad historic capital

Suriname:

Explore Paramaribo (Waterkant, Fort Zeelandia, Cathedral)Visit Central Suriname Nature Reserve (UNESCO site)Enjoy Surinamese cuisine, including chicken with rice

Destination Contact Information

Website:

http://www.sabatourism.com/

Email:

iInfo@visittrinidad.co.tt

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/sabatouristbureau/

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/channel/UCF4G39jHnZ0RvKPZbaiYaqg

Twitter:

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Main Phone Number:

+599 416 2231

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