Is Paramaribo Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Paramaribo is generally safe to drink when supplied through the municipal water network operated by the Surinaamsche Waterleiding Maatschappij. The water is treated and monitored under Suriname’s drinking water standards.
Avoid drinking water that is cloudy, discolored, or has an unusual odor, especially after supply interruptions or during infrastructure repairs. In those situations, use bottled water or boil the tap water before drinking.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Suriname is ranked as number 110 globally with a score of 43.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Paramaribo, Suriname
Tap water in Paramaribo mainly comes from groundwater pumped from wells operated by the Surinaamsche Waterleiding Maatschappij (SWM). The water is drawn from underground aquifers beneath Paramaribo and nearby areas.
After extraction, the water is treated and disinfected before entering the public distribution network. SWM then delivers it through the piped water system to homes and businesses across Paramaribo District.
Paramaribo Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Paramaribo are generally safe when they are connected to the treated municipal water supply and are properly maintained. The water supply itself is treated to drinking-water standards, but individual fountains may have hygiene or maintenance problems.
Use a fountain only if it is clean, functioning, and clearly intended for drinking. Avoid water that is cloudy, has an unusual smell or taste, or comes from a damaged or poorly maintained fixture.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Paramaribo. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.