Things To Do
in French Guiana
French Guiana is an overseas department of France located on the northeastern coast of South America, sharing borders with Brazil and Suriname. It is known for its rich biodiversity, with dense rainforests that are home to a wide variety of wildlife, and for hosting the Guiana Space Centre, a major European spaceport.
The region's culture is a vibrant blend of Indigenous, African, Asian, and European influences, reflecting its diverse population and colonial history.
- "Bonjou" - Good morning
- "Mesi" - Thank you
- "Ki jan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Ou byen?" - Are you okay?
- "N'ap pale pita" - We'll talk later
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Place des Palmistes, a vibrant square surrounded by palm trees. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café.
Explore the Musée Departmental Franck Julie to learn about the unique culture and history of French Guiana. Afterward, stroll through the bustling markets and sample local foods.
Relax at the beach while watching the sunset over the ocean. Treat yourself to dinner at a seafood restaurant, savoring fresh flavors.
Embark on a guided boat tour into the Amazon rainforest. Explore the rich biodiversity and learn about the various plant and animal species.
Visit a local indigenous community and participate in a cultural exchange. Enjoy a traditional meal cooked with local ingredients.
Return to Cayenne and unwind in a cozy café. Share your experiences and stories of the day with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, including the Amazon rainforest.
- Cultural diversity with a blend of French, Indigenous, and Creole influences.
- Strategic location for space exploration with the Guiana Space Centre.
- A part of France, which means it benefits from the European Union's economic and social programs.
- High cost of living compared to mainland France.
- Limited job opportunities outside of the public sector and space industry.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some regions, leading to difficulties in transportation and communication.
- Health risks associated with tropical diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
Best Activities in French Guiana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazon Rainforest on well-maintained trails with knowledgeable guides.
Witness the rich birdlife of French Guiana by exploring the pristine wetlands of Kaw Swamp, home to various bird species.
Embark on a canoeing adventure along the picturesque Maroni River, offering a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty and indigenous communities.
Tours
Uncover the best of French Guiana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in French Guiana
Visit one of these nice places.
A group of small islands off the coast of French Guiana, providing stunning views and photo opportunities of the islands and surrounding ocean.
The capital city of French Guiana offers a mix of colonial and modern architecture, providing great photo opportunities.
A hiking trail in the forested interior of French Guiana, offering beautiful views of the natural scenery and wildlife.
A stunning waterfall in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, providing a great photo opportunity of the dramatic landscape.
Food in French Guiana
French Guiana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful chicken stew infused with aromatic spices and often served with rice or bread. Best enjoyed at local Creole restaurants such as Le Yaca in Cayenne.
Must-Try!
Smoked chicken marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Look for this dish at roadside eateries or during local food festivals.
Savoury cod fritters seasoned with herbs and spices, a popular appetizer or snack found at various street food stalls in markets and town centers.
Unique Experiences
Get to know French Guiana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant and bustling market where you can sample an array of local street food including accras, bokits (spiced meat or fish stuffed in a fried dough), and fresh tropical fruits.
This market is known for its diverse culinary offerings, from freshly prepared Creole dishes to exotic fruits and refreshing sugarcane juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In French Guiana, it is important to show respect for elders through polite behavior and using formal language such as "vous" instead of informal "tu".
French Guiana is home to a diverse population, including Creole, Maroon, Amerindian, and various immigrant communities. Embracing and respecting this diversity is an important cultural norm.
Observing social etiquette such as introducing oneself with a handshake, maintaining eye contact, and showing interest in others is highly valued in French Guianese culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of French Guiana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in French Guiana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in French Guiana. However, in upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. It is not customary to leave an additional tip in these cases.
Cash is widely used for transactions in French Guiana, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many places, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into French Guiana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit French Guiana, with less rainfall and more opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.
Expect higher rainfall and more humid conditions, but this is also a great time to see the lush green landscapes and vibrant birdlife.
French Guiana at Night
Hiking in French Guiana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A remote and pristine range that offers challenging hikes through lush rainforest and diverse wildlife.
A scenic trail along the Maroni River that provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the unique flora and fauna of the region.
This nature reserve features hiking paths through wetlands and forest, ideal for birdwatching and discovering local wildlife.
A national park that encompasses a variety of ecosystems, with trails that showcase the rich biodiversity of French Guiana.
A group of islands with trails that allow hikers to explore historical sites and enjoy views of the surrounding ocean.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into French Guiana through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach French Guiana by plane.
The main airport serving French Guiana, located in Cayenne, offers international flights.
Located in Guadeloupe, this major airport services international flights and is approximately 700 km from French Guiana.
Located in Martinique, this airport is another option for international flights, situated about 800 km from French Guiana.
Also known as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, located in Suriname, approximately 300 km from French Guiana.
Located in Brazil, offers limited international flights, and is around 1,000 km from French Guiana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mixed demographic group primarily consisting of descendants of indigenous people and European settlers.
Various groups including the Wayampi, Oiapoque, and other native tribes.
A demographic group descended from African slaves, often mixed with European ancestry.
A community of Hmong immigrants and their descendants who have settled in French Guiana.
Various populations from Europe, primarily from France, who have settled in the region.
Includes diverse Asian groups, particularly those from China and India.
Includes various other groups with a smaller population presence.
The Soul of French Guiana
Discover the essence of French Guiana through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in French Guiana, with numerous local clubs and leagues. It has a strong community following and is played widely at both amateur and professional levels.
Rugby has a significant following in French Guiana, with several clubs and a notable presence in regional tournaments. It is particularly popular among the youth.
Basketball is also widely played in French Guiana, with various local competitions and a strong interest from schools. The sport has produced talented players who compete at higher levels.
Athletics enjoys popularity in French Guiana, with many local events and competitions. The region has produced athletes who compete in regional and international events.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity and competitive sport in French Guiana, with numerous biking trails and events that attract participants and spectators.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-heavy dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan choices, especially in urban areas like Cayenne and Kourou. Look for eateries that specialize in local produce and plant-based fare.
Gluten-free options may be more limited, but some restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free diets. It's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly and seek out establishments with a flexible approach to customization.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting French Guiana.