French Guiana Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about French Guiana including where to stay, what to do, and when to go. Read on to plan your perfect trip to this fascinating South American destination.


Introduction to French Guiana

Located on the northern coast of South America, French Guiana is a department of France known for its dense rainforests, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastline. Sharing borders with Brazil to the south and Surinam to the west, French Guiana is a unique and fascinating destination that offers an exciting mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.

Despite its small size, French Guiana offers a wealth of travel opportunities for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich colonial history, hike through its lush rainforests, or relax on its tranquil beaches, French Guiana has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide to French Guiana, we’ll share everything you need to know about traveling to this exciting destination, including the best places to visit, where to stay, what to do, and when to go.

List of Places to Visit in French Guiana

French Guiana is filled with exciting destinations that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are a few of the must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée Départemental De Franconie - Located in the capital city of Cayenne, this museum features exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and traditions, including its indigenous heritage and colonial past.
  • Château Royal - Once a French colonial governor’s palace, this stunning building is now a shopping center with beautiful architecture and local boutiques.
  • Îles du Salut - This group of small islands off the coast of Kourou is home to the ruins of an infamous French penal colony, as well as beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Natural Attractions of French Guiana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Guiana Amazonian Park - Covering more than 33,000 square kilometers of pristine rainforest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, giant otters, and howler monkeys.
  • Cayenne Botanical Garden - Located in central Cayenne, this beautiful garden features a range of exotic plants and trees, including palms, bamboos, and orchids..
  • Pripri de Yiyi Trail - This popular hiking trail runs through the rainforest in the vicinity of Camopi, offering visitors a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, as well as traditional tribal communities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of French Guiana

French Guiana is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, biking, and trekking opportunities both on land and in the water. Here are a few of the best routes to check out:

  • Sentier du Rorota - This easy trail offers stunning views of the Rorota and Grand Matoury waterfalls, as well as a chance to see local bird species and monkeys.
  • La Forêt de Mazamuni - This dense forest covers more than 10,000 hectares and offers plenty of hiking and biking trails that wind through its lush vegetation.
  • Loyola to Trou Poissons Trail - This advanced hiking trek leads through the rainforest and past traditional tribal villages, offering visitors a chance to see wild nature as well as the customs of indigenous people.

Best Things to Do in French Guiana: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun and exciting things to do in French Guiana, here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Visit the Guiana Space Centre - This fascinating center is located near Kourou and offers visitors a chance to learn about the country’s space program, as well as observe rocket launches into space.
  • Explore the Sunday Market in Cayenne - Held each week in the heart of the city, this bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a Boat Trip Along the Maroni River - This beautiful river runs along the border between French Guiana and Surinam, and offers visitors a chance to see local wildlife, traditional villages, and stunning views along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for French Guiana

If you’re planning a week-long trip to French Guiana, here’s a sample itinerary to help you get the most out of your time there:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Cayenne - Spend your first day exploring the capital city of Cayenne, checking out its markets, museums, and restaurants.
  • Day 2: Visit Îles du Salut - Take a boat trip to these islands off the coast of Kourou to learn about their rich history and enjoy the beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
  • Day 3-4: Explore Guiana Amazonian Park - Spend two days exploring the world-famous rainforest, hiking its trails, and observing its diverse wildlife.
  • Day 5: Visit the Guiana Space Centre - Take a tour of this fascinating facility and learn about the country’s space program.
  • Day 6: Take a Boat Trip Along the Maroni River - Experience the beauty of French Guiana’s natural landscape and learn about traditional tribal communities along the border.
  • Day 7: Relax on the Beach - Take a day to unwind on one of French Guiana’s stunning beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of French Guiana

From fresh seafood to hearty stews, the food and drink scene in French Guiana offers plenty of delicious options for visitors to try. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cassava Bread - Made from the cassava root, this staple food is a common accompaniment to many meals in French Guiana.
  • Poulet Boucané - This slow-cooked, smoke-flavored chicken dish is a local favorite and is often served with rice and beans.
  • Matété de Crabes - This crab stew is a traditional dish made with local spices, coconut milk, and other delicious ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Planteur Punch - Made from a mix of local fruits, rum, and other ingredients, this sweet and refreshing punch is a popular choice at local bars and restaurants.
  • Limonade - This lemonade-like drink is made from the juice of local limes and is a common accompaniment to meals in French Guiana.

Where to Stay in French Guiana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels, French Guiana offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. Here are a few top picks:

  • Hôtel des Palmistes - Located in central Cayenne, this elegant hotel offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and an onsite restaurant.
  • Hôtel Amazonie - This modern hotel in downtown Cayenne features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
  • Le Petit Chalet - This cozy guesthouse in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni offers budget-friendly rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in French Guiana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take home a piece of French Guiana, here are a few souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Handwoven Baskets - Made by local indigenous communities, these baskets come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are perfect for carrying groceries or other items.
  • Palm Hats - These traditional hats are made from local palm leaves and are perfect for keeping the sun off your face during outdoor activities.
  • Artisanal Rum - Made from local sugarcane, French Guiana’s rum is famous for its unique flavor and is perfect for sipping on a hot day.

Local Culture and Customs of French Guiana

French Guiana is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich mix of indigenous, European, and African influences. Visitors to French Guiana should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

  • Respect the Environment - French Guiana’s natural environment is fragile and visitors should take care to leave no trace when exploring it.
  • Dress Conservatively in Traditional Villages - When visiting indigenous communities, it’s important to dress conservatively and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try Speaking French - French is the official language of French Guiana, and locals appreciate visitors who try to speak the language, even if only a few words.

Best Time to Visit French Guiana

The best time to visit French Guiana depends on your travel preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. For most visitors, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-July. This period offers warm, sunny weather and is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of French Guiana

When visiting French Guiana, there are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try new foods and drinks and explore the local cuisine.
  • Do be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting traditional villages.
  • Do take care of the environment and leave no trace when exploring French Guiana’s natural wonders.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave valuables unattended in public places.
  • Don’t hike or explore the jungle alone.
  • Don’t ignore warnings about local wildlife, especially in the rainforest.

Safety and Health

French Guiana is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take the same basic precautions they would in any unfamiliar destination. Here are a few safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in French Guiana

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and avoid leaving them unattended.
  • Only use reputable tour operators and transportation companies.

Health in French Guiana

  • Get all necessary vaccinations before traveling to French Guiana.
  • Be cautious about eating raw or undercooked foods.
  • Be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Zika virus.

Getting to French Guiana: Transportation Options and Logistics

French Guiana is accessible by air and boat, with several airports and ports serving the country. Here are a few transportation options to consider:

Airports Near French Guiana

  • Cayenne Felix Eboue International Airport (CAY) - Located in the capital city of Cayenne, this airport serves as the main point of entry for travelers to French Guiana.
  • St. Laurent du Maroni Airport (LDX) - Located on the western coast of French Guiana, this airport serves primarily domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near French Guiana

  • Gare Routière de Cayenne - This central bus station in Cayenne offers connections to other towns and cities in French Guiana and neighboring countries.

Other Options

  • Boat - Regular ferry services connect French Guiana with Suriname and Brazil, offering visitors a chance to take in the region’s stunning coastline and enjoy a more relaxed mode of transport.

How to Get Around in French Guiana

Once you’re in French Guiana, there are several transportation options available to help you get around:

  • Car Rental - Several car rental companies operate in French Guiana, offering visitors a chance to explore the country’s natural wonders and cultural heritage on their own.
  • Taxis - Taxis are widely available in French Guiana, both in major cities and in more rural areas.
  • Buses - Buses and minibusses operate on set routes throughout French Guiana, offering an affordable way to get around.

Where to Go Next from French Guiana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of South America after your visit to French Guiana, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Suriname - This neighboring country to the west offers a rich mix of cultural and natural attractions, including the picturesque city of Paramaribo and the stunning Brownsberg Nature Park.
  • Brazil - Just south of French Guiana, Brazil is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, from the Amazon rainforest to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.

Conclusion

French Guiana is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a wealth of travel opportunities for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich colonial history, hike through its lush rainforests, or relax on its tranquil beaches, French Guiana has something for everyone.

We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to this exciting South American destination. Bon voyage!

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    Guiana Amazonian Park
    Kourou