Things To Do
in French Guiana
French Guiana is a French overseas department on the northeast coast of South America where emerald rainforests spill into the Atlantic. Its capital, Cayenne, is a lively gateway to mangrove-lined shores, vibrant markets and a fusion of cultures. The region is famed for its biodiversity, including vast Amazonian areas and coastal ecosystems, as well as the historic Îles du Salut.
Visitors experience a distinctive blend of French influence with Creole, Maroon and Indigenous traditions through food, festivals and everyday life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
After arriving at Cayenne's Félix Eboué Airport, settle into your hotel and refresh from your journey. Take a leisurely stroll in the vibrant streets of Cayenne, where you can enjoy the colorful Creole architecture. Visit the local market to sample tropical fruits and artisan goods that encapsulate the spirit of French Guiana.
After lunch, explore the historic Fort Cépérou, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The fort's rich history and beautiful surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for photo opportunities. Consider visiting the nearby botanical garden to immerse yourself in the region's diverse flora.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delectable dinner at a local restaurant offering Creole cuisine. Experience the lively atmosphere of Cayenne at night, with music and dance filling the air. Stroll along the coastline while enjoying the cool breeze and the sound of the waves.
Travel to Kourou, home of the Guiana Space Centre, one of the most important spaceports in the world. Join a guided tour to learn about rocket launches and space exploration, and marvel at the impressive technology on display. Don't miss the opportunity to take photos of the stunning launch pads and the surrounding landscapes.
After the tour, visit the nearby Musée de l'Espace, which provides interactive exhibits about space missions. Grab lunch at a local café and chat with locals to learn more about life in this unique region. Explore the outskirts of Kourou, where you'll find serene beaches perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Return to Cayenne for dinner at a seaside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood. As night falls, take a guided night tour along the coast to witness the local wildlife, including nocturnal creatures. Breathe in the tropical night air while enjoying the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3 |
| 🚌One-way local transport fare | $2 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural blend and welcoming people
- Outstanding biodiversity and unique rainforest experiences
- French infrastructure, cuisine, and healthcare access
- Distinct day trips to markets, rivers and coastal landscapes
- Remote areas can mean long travel times between sights
- Humidity and rain can challenge outdoor plans
- Limited nightlife outside major towns
- Some services and English-language options can be sparse in rural areas
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît." - The check, please.
Places to Visit in French Guiana
Visit one of these nice places.
A shaded city square with colonial accents; ideal for morning light, people-watching and reflections in the pond.
Golden hour over the river and mangroves, with boats and the skyline providing a dramatic silhouette.
A colorfully painted church famous for its vibrant interior murals; a striking juxtaposition of art and faith.
Wooden walkways through rainforest and mangrove ecosystems—perfect for wildlife and rainforest photography.
Remote island views and rugged coastlines; requires planning but offers dramatic coastal shots and a sense of history.
Food in French Guiana
French Guiana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant curry-style dish usually made with chicken or goat, potatoes and a robust blend of local spices, commonly served with rice and beans.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish soup enriched with peppers, herbs and coconut milk, typically enjoyed with white rice.
Codfish fritters that are crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, a popular street snack.
Fried plantains, a staple accompaniment or snack, often served with grilled fish or meat.
Creole blood sausage seasoned with regional spices, commonly found at markets and in Creole eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh fruit, seafood, cassava products and local snacks; a great place to sample street food and chat with vendors.
Coastal market where you can find river fish, plantains, yams and other staples used in country cooking; ideal for a picnic or a cooking class stop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with “Bonjour” or “Bon jour” and use formal language with strangers; handshakes are common in urban settings.
Dress modestly in churches and respectful areas; in markets and coastal towns, casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Remove hats in religious spaces unless allowed.
Ask before photographing people, respect private properties and protected areas, and dispose of waste properly in all environments.
Safety
Tipping in French Guiana
Ensure a smooth experience
In most restaurants, service is included in the bill; if not, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated. Small tips for hotel staff or guides are common but not obligatory.
European-style payments are common: credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash in euros is still useful in smaller markets and for rural transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High humidity and frequent rain; trails can be muddy and rivers rise quickly. Best to visit early in the day, bring waterproof gear, and plan indoor museum visits for rainy hours.
Generally drier and more comfortable for outdoor activities; wildlife viewing is excellent, and beaches and rivers are more accessible, though humidity remains high.
French Guiana at Night
Hiking in French Guiana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and mangrove trails with canopy views and abundant birdlife; guided walks available.
Challenging rainforest hikes with rewarding viewpoints and opportunities to encounter wildlife.
Riverside paths through rainforest edge habitat, suitable for day hikes and wildlife photography.
Airports
How to reach French Guiana by plane.
The main gateway to French Guiana, serving domestic and international flights; located near Cayenne with connections to Paris and regional destinations. Ground transport options include taxi and rental cars to Cayenne city center.
A smaller airport serving regional flights; convenient for trips to the Maroni River region and border-adjacent communities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People of mixed African, Indigenous and European ancestry, integral to the cultural fabric and cuisine.
Groups such as Ndyuka, Saramaka, and Wayana with distinct traditions and languages, often located in forested and border areas.
Wayãpi, Kali’na, Palikur and Emerillon communities with rich traditions and crafts.
Residents from Brazil, Suriname and Haiti, contributing to the cultural mosaic and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across urban and rural communities; local clubs and informal games are common.
Widely played in schools and community centers; mobile courts can be found in towns.
Played both indoors and on beaches along the coast.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in Creole and French eateries. Look for dishes based on beans, plantains, yams, rice and fresh vegetables; ask for vegetable-heavy versions of local stews and avoid meat broths when possible.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting French Guiana.