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

French Guiana offers a unique blend of French and South American cultures, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore, from the capital city of Cayenne to the lush rainforests and coastal beaches.

Top Attractions

AttractionLocationTypeWhy Visit
Devil's IslandOff the coast of KourouFormer prison islandHistoric site and infamous former prison of Alfred Dreyfus
Kourou Space CentreKourouSpaceportWitness a rocket launch or take a guided tour
Cayenne CathedralCayenneHistoric churchBeautiful architecture and stunning views of the city
Fort CépérouCayenneHistoric fortFormer military outpost with a museum and stunning views
Îles du SalutOff the coast of KourouIsland chainUnspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife
Guiana Space Centre MuseumKourouMuseumLearn about the history of space exploration and the role of French Guiana
MaripasoulaMaripasoulaVillageExperience the traditional way of life of the indigenous people
Tresor Nature ReserveRouraNature reserveHike through the lush rainforest and spot exotic wildlife
Montagne de KawRouraMountainHike to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
Plage des RochesCayenneBeachRelax on the beach and enjoy the local seafood

Unique Experiences

  • Take a pirogue trip up the Maroni River to experience the traditional transportation method of the indigenous people
  • Visit a cacao farm to learn about the production of chocolate and taste some of the local products
  • Go on a jaguar spotting tour in the lush rainforest of French Guiana
  • Attend a traditional creole festival to experience the vibrant culture and music of the region
  • Take a cooking class to learn about the unique fusion of French and South American cuisine
  • Go on a gold panning adventure in the Approuague River

Outdoor & Nature

  • Explore the Guiana Amazonian Park, a vast protected area of rainforest and diverse wildlife
  • Hike to the summit of Montagne de Kaw, the highest point in French Guiana
  • Visit the Tresor Nature Reserve, a protected area of rainforest and home to many exotic species
  • Relax on the beach at Plage des Roches, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing
  • Take a boat trip to the Îles du Salut, a chain of islands with unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit the Cayenne Museum, a museum showcasing the history and culture of French Guiana
  • Explore the Place des Palmistes, a historic square in the heart of Cayenne
  • Attend a traditional dance performance, such as the Léwoz or Kaliña
  • Take a guided tour of the Kourou Space Centre, a working spaceport with a rich history
  • Visit the Guiana Space Centre Museum, a museum showcasing the history of space exploration in French Guiana

Hidden Gems

  • Visit the village of Awala-Yalimapo, a small village on the coast with a beautiful beach and traditional way of life
  • Explore the Crique Fouilloux, a small creek with a beautiful waterfall and diverse wildlife
  • Take a boat trip to the Island of Gonave, a small island with a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters
  • Visit the Jardin Botanique, a beautiful botanical garden with a wide range of plant species

Day Trips

  1. Take a day trip to the Îles du Salut, a chain of islands with unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear waters (distance: 10 km, travel time: 30 minutes by boat)
  2. Visit the Kourou Space Centre, a working spaceport with a rich history (distance: 60 km, travel time: 1 hour by car)
  3. Explore the Guiana Amazonian Park, a vast protected area of rainforest and diverse wildlife (distance: 100 km, travel time: 2 hours by car)
  4. Take a day trip to the village of Maripasoula, a small village on the border with Brazil (distance: 200 km, travel time: 4 hours by car)
  5. Visit the Tresor Nature Reserve, a protected area of rainforest and home to many exotic species (distance: 50 km, travel time: 1 hour by car)

Planning Tips

Suggested itineraries: 3-day (highlights of Cayenne and Kourou), 7-day (comprehensive tour of the coast and interior), 14-day (deep exploration of the rainforest and indigenous communities). Key tips for booking and prioritizing: book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, and prioritize activities based on your interests and the time of year.

[RATING] 4/5 for overall experience, with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests.

Quick Facts

KeyPopulation
Value292,354
KeyArea
Value83,534 km²
KeyCurrency
ValueEUR