Verified Facts

Official NameGuiana
CapitalCayenne
Population292,354
Area83,534 km² (32,253 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC-03:00
RegionAmericas / South America
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

To live in or visit French Guiana, you can expect to pay moderate to expensive prices, with daily budgets ranging from $80-150 USD for backpackers, $150-300 USD for mid-range travelers, and $300-500 USD for comfort seekers.

Quick Facts

Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-150 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-300 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$300-500 USD
CurrencyEUR
Tipping Customnot expected

How Expensive Is French Guiana?

French Guiana is a territory of France located in South America, and its cost of living reflects its unique blend of European and South American influences. Compared to other countries in South America, French Guiana is relatively expensive, with prices similar to those found in Western Europe. However, compared to its neighbors, Brazil and Suriname, French Guiana is more expensive, particularly when it comes to accommodation and food. The cost of living in French Guiana is driven by its remote location, limited economy, and reliance on imports from France.

The high cost of living in French Guiana is also due to the territory's limited infrastructure and lack of competition in certain industries, such as transportation and telecommunications. Additionally, the territory's small population and relatively low demand for certain goods and services can drive up prices. Despite these challenges, French Guiana offers a unique cultural experience and stunning natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for travelers and expats who are willing to pay a premium for the privilege of living in this remote and exotic territory.

Accommodation Prices

TypePrice Range (USD/night)Notes
Hostel/Budget$30-60basic rooms with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel$80-150comfortable rooms with private bathrooms
Luxury/Resort$200-500high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)$800-1,500city center, one-bedroom apartment
Apartment Rent (monthly)$500-1,000outside city center, one-bedroom apartment

Food & Dining Prices

Meal TypePrice Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery$10-20
Casual Restaurant$20-40
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)$50-100
Fine Dining$100-200
Beer (local)$5-10
Coffee$3-5
Water (1.5L bottle)$2-3

Transport Costs

TransportCost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride$1-2
Taxi (per km)$2-5
Domestic flight$100-200
Fuel (per liter)$1.50-2.50

Monthly Budget Breakdown

CategoryBudget ($)Mid-Range ($)Comfortable ($)
Rent6001,0001,500
Food5008001,200
Transport100200300
Utilities150250350
Entertainment200400600
Total2,0503,4505,150

Money-Saving Tips

  • Consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse instead of a hotel to save on accommodation costs.
  • Eat at local markets or street food stalls instead of mid-range restaurants to save on food costs.
  • Use public transportation instead of taxis to get around.
  • Buy groceries at local markets instead of supermarkets to save on food costs.
  • Avoid traveling during peak season (December to April) to save on accommodation and transportation costs.
  • Consider renting an apartment outside of the city center to save on rent costs.