History
Explore Devil's Island
Îles du Salut, near Kourou
Visit the infamous Devil's Island, part of the Salvation Islands, known for its brutal penal colony history and now a haunting historical site.
What to see and do in French Guiana: a shorter list of 25 experiences, not yet checked against sources.
History
Îles du Salut, near Kourou
Visit the infamous Devil's Island, part of the Salvation Islands, known for its brutal penal colony history and now a haunting historical site.
Adventure
Kourou
Take a guided tour of the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, one of the world's busiest launch sites for rockets, including Ariane and Soyuz.
City
Cayenne
Explore the vibrant Marché Central in Cayenne, where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and crafts, offering a taste of daily life.
Nature
Régina
Trek the Sentier du Rorota trail near Cayenne through tropical forest to a pristine lake, ideal for nature lovers.
Culture
Cacao, Roura
Discover the unique Village of Cacao, home to a Hmong community that migrated from Laos, and enjoy their cuisine and culture.
Nature
Kaw, Roura
Paddle through the Marais de Kaw, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife like caimans, herons, and monkeys in their natural habitat.
Culture
Cayenne
Experience the colorful Cayenne Carnival, one of the largest in the Caribbean, with parades, music, and vibrant costumes in February or March.
Adventure
Saül
Explore the remote Tumuc-Humac Mountains on the border with Brazil, offering challenging hikes and untouched Amazonian wilderness.
History
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Tour the Camp de la Transportation in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, a former penal colony building that now houses a museum on convict history.
Food
Cayenne
Savor Colombo curry, a signature dish in French Guiana blending French, Creole, and Indian influences, at a local eatery.
Nature
Îles du Salut
Visit the Salvation Islands, a group of three islands with lush vegetation, former leper colony ruins, and stunning ocean views.
Adventure
Régina
Embark on a fishing trip on the Approuague River, known for peacock bass and other freshwater fish in the Amazonian jungle setting.
Nature
Cayenne
Stroll through the Jardin Botanique de Cayenne, a botanical garden showcasing tropical plants, orchids, and a peaceful retreat from the city.
Culture
Saül
Discover ancient rock engravings at Roches gravées de l'Arataye, evidence of pre-Columbian indigenous art in the jungle.
Nightlife
Cayenne
Enjoy live Creole music performances in Cayenne or other towns, featuring genres like biguine and zouk that reflect the local culture.
Hidden gem
Matoury
Relax at Pointe Isère, a coastal area near Cayenne with beaches and mangroves, perfect for a day trip.
History
Cayenne
Explore the Musée Départemental in Cayenne, which houses exhibits on the history, culture, and natural environment of French Guiana.
Adventure
Matoury
Hike to the summit of Mont Grand Matoury for panoramic views of Cayenne and the surrounding forest.
Food
Cayenne
Taste Boudin Créole, a spicy blood sausage made with local spices and herbs, a staple in Creole cuisine.
Hidden gem
Saül
Experience the remote village of Saül, accessible only by plane or river, surrounded by pristine rainforest and ideal for eco-tourism.
Nature
Sinnamary
Take a boat trip through the Canal de Torbeck, a waterway through mangroves and forests, offering wildlife spotting opportunities.
History
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
See the Maison des Esclaves in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, a historical building related to the slave trade and penal colony.
Culture
Cayenne
Participate in or watch traditional Creole dance workshops or performances, showcasing the African and European influences in local culture.
Nature
Régina
Hike through the Trésor Nature Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the jaguar and harpy eagle.
City
Cayenne
Relax at Place des Palmistes in Cayenne, a central square lined with palm trees, colonial buildings, and cafes.