Verified Facts
To get around in French Guiana, you can use a combination of domestic flights, buses, taxis, and rental cars, as the territory has a limited rail network and no metro system.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The main international airport in French Guiana is the Cayenne Félix Eboué Airport (CAY), which receives flights from Paris, Miami, and other Caribbean islands. There are no direct flights from most European or American cities, so you may need to connect through Paris or another Caribbean hub. The airport is located about 13 kilometers southwest of Cayenne, the capital city, and offers taxi and rental car services. Overland entry points are limited, but you can enter French Guiana by road from Brazil or Suriname, although this may require special permits and visas.
If you plan to enter French Guiana by land, be sure to research the requirements for visas, customs, and border crossings, as these can be complex and subject to change. The main border crossing with Brazil is at Saint-Georges-de-l'Oyapock, while the border with Suriname is at Albina. Both crossings are relatively remote, and you may need to hire a guide or join a tour to navigate the process.
Domestic Flights
French Guiana has a limited domestic air network, with flights connecting Cayenne to the coastal towns of Kourou, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, and Maripasoula. The main domestic airline is Air Guyane, which offers regular flights to these destinations. You can book flights online or through a local travel agent, and prices start from around 100 euros for a one-way ticket. Be sure to book in advance, as flights can be infrequent and may fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Trains & Rail
French Guiana has no rail network, so trains are not an option for getting around the territory. This is due to the challenging terrain and the fact that the territory is relatively small, making road and air transport more practical. If you are looking for a scenic way to travel, you may consider taking a boat or ferry along the coast, but these services are limited and may not be available to all destinations.
Buses & Coaches
Intercity bus services in French Guiana are limited, but you can find buses connecting Cayenne to other coastal towns and villages. The main bus company is TCG (Transport en Commun de Guyane), which offers regular services to destinations such as Kourou, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, and Iracoubo. Buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around 10 euros for a one-way ticket. However, be prepared for rough roads and limited schedules, especially in rural areas.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Cayenne, Kourou | 1-2 | Limited routes and schedules |
| Taxi | everywhere | 10-20/km | Available at airports and towns |
| Ride-Hailing | Cayenne, Kourou | 5-10 | Local alternatives to Uber |
| Taxi Boat | coastal towns | 20-50 | Available for coastal transport |
Driving
- To drive in French Guiana, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- Road conditions in French Guiana can be challenging, especially in rural areas, where roads may be unpaved or poorly maintained.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in French Guiana, so be prepared for expensive gas prices.
- Car rental companies are available at the airport and in major towns, but be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- When driving in French Guiana, be aware of the risks of theft and vandalism, especially in urban areas.
- Be prepared for hazardous road conditions, including potholes, landslides, and flooding, especially during the rainy season.
Transport Tips
- Be prepared for limited English spoken by locals, especially outside of major towns, so it's a good idea to learn some basic French phrases.
- Cash is king in French Guiana, so be sure to have plenty of euros on hand, especially in rural areas where credit cards may not be accepted.
- Download the Waze app to navigate the territory's roads and avoid traffic congestion.
- Be aware of scams and petty theft, especially in tourist areas, and take necessary precautions to secure your belongings.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas where communities may be more conservative.
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to explore the territory's remote areas and avoid getting lost.
- Be prepared for power outages and internet disruptions, especially in rural areas, and plan accordingly.
- Stay informed about local events and festivals, which can affect transport schedules and availability.