French Guiana Travel Guide

Here is a list of amazing places to visit in French Guiana:

 Space Center (Centre Spatial Guyanais)

Located in Kourou, the Guiana Space Center is the primary spaceport for the European Space Agency. Since 1968, this 850-square-km complex has been at the forefront of European space exploration, launching satellites for communication, weather observation, and scientific research.

The facility’s unique location near the equator allows rockets to harness the Earth’s rotation for extra speed. A guided tour here promises an informative and exciting look at space exploration, taking visitors through the Jupiter Control Centre, launch pads, and more. Watching a rocket launch from here is an unforgettable experience.

 Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands)

A short boat trip off the coast of Kourou lies the archipelago of the Salvation Islands, once home to one of history’s most notorious penal colonies. From 1852 to 1953, convicts from France, including the infamous Henri “Papillon” Charrière, were sent to these islands.

The ruins of the prisons on Île Royale and Île Saint-Joseph offer a grim contrast to the islands’ natural beauty, which includes palm-lined beaches and clear, azure waters. Guided tours provide insight into the harsh conditions prisoners endured, while free-roaming peacocks and agoutis add a surreal touch to the visit.

 Tumuc-Humac mountains

The Tumuc-Humac mountains, located in French Guiana’s far south, offer a raw and unspoiled journey into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. This vast, sparsely populated area is covered in dense forest, cut by rivers, and populated by rare animal species such as jaguars and tapirs.

Local indigenous communities live harmoniously with nature, practicing traditional subsistence farming. Visits usually involve multi-day expeditions, led by local guides, and provide a fascinating insight into the rainforest’s complex ecosystem and indigenous ways of life.

 Maroni River

The Maroni River forms a natural border with Suriname, flowing through the heart of French Guiana’s lush rainforests. Boat trips down this river offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Maroon communities, descendants of escaped African slaves who’ve retained their unique cultural heritage.

The villages along the riverbanks feature distinctive wooden houses adorned with intricate carvings. The surrounding rainforests are home to diverse fauna, including monkeys, birds, and the elusive jaguar, making for an enriching cultural and natural adventure.

 Cacao

The village of Cacao is a vibrant hub of Hmong culture. Having resettled from Laos after the Vietnam War, the Hmong community has transformed this settlement into a thriving agrarian locale known for its traditional Sunday market.

Here, you can shop for locally grown produce, exquisite embroidery, and traditional Hmong clothing. The local insect museum, housing a vast array of South American insect species, and the Hmong cultural center provide enriching insights into this resilient community and its traditions.

 Maripasoula

Situated on the Maroni River’s banks, Maripasoula is an exceptional place to encounter French Guiana’s indigenous Amerindian and Maroon cultures. It holds the title as France’s largest commune by land area and is accessible only by river or air.

Guided tours provide a unique chance to discover the customs of the local communities, such as traditional music and dance, storytelling, and artisanal crafts. The Musée de Maripasoula offers a more in-depth understanding of these communities and their relationship with the surrounding rainforest.

 Awala-Yalimapo

Awala-Yalimapo is a coastal community inhabited by the Kali’na people, French Guiana’s largest Amerindian group. Here, you can explore the intricate mangrove ecosystems and visit the Plage des Hattes, a significant nesting ground for leatherback turtles.

From April to July, these giant sea creatures crawl ashore to lay their eggs under the cover of darkness. Local tour operators offer night-time beach excursions, providing an unmissable chance to witness this natural spectacle while contributing to local conservation efforts.

 Réserve Naturelle Trésor & Kaw Marshland Reserve

A short drive from Cayenne takes you to these neighboring reserves, both of which are havens for nature lovers. The Réserve Naturelle Trésor is home to over 400 species of trees, countless insects, and iconic bird species such as the vibrant Guianan cock-of-the-rock. Self-guided trails wind through the forest, revealing its biodiversity.

Adjacent to it is the Kaw Marshland Reserve, one of French Guiana’s largest protected areas, famous for its diverse aquatic birdlife, black caimans, and a high concentration of electric eels. Canoe tours provide the best way to explore these freshwater wetlands and their fascinating inhabitants.

Cayenne

Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana, reflects a rich blend of Creole, Chinese, Hmong, and indigenous cultures. Its vibrant markets offer a sensory feast of tropical fruits, spices, and handicrafts, while the colonial architecture narrates tales of the past.

The Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie is a must-visit for insights into the region’s diverse natural and cultural history. Street art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring murals that add color to the cityscape. No visit to Cayenne would be complete without savoring its Creole cuisine, an appetizing fusion of French, African, and Amerindian flavors.

 Remire-Montjoly Beach

Just a stone’s throw from Cayenne, Remire-Montjoly beach is a favorite among locals for its golden sand and calm, warm waters. During the months of March to July, the beach transforms into a magical spectacle with sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.

The sight of these gentle creatures under the moonlight against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean is truly unforgettable. Local eco-friendly tours offer guided visits, focusing on the observation and conservation of these endangered species.