Things To Do
in Kourou
Kourou is a coastal town in eastern French Guiana, set between rainforest and the Atlantic. It blends French influence with Creole and Caribbean flavors, creating a laid-back, multicultural vibe. The town is best known as the gateway to the Guiana Space Centre, giving it a unique mix of science and seaside life.
With palm-lined beaches, riverfront markets, and dense rainforest nearby, Kourou offers a compact yet richly textured experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kourou and settle into your accommodation. Explore the nearby surroundings to acclimate and get a feel for the local culture. Take a leisurely walk along the beaches to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
Visit the Kourou Space Centre to learn about France's space exploration efforts. Enjoy an informative tour that showcases rocket launches and satellite technology. Immerse yourself in the history of space missions conducted from this launch site.
Relax at a local restaurant and savor the delicious flavors of Creole cuisine. Sample dishes like shrimps with coconut milk or grilled fish, paired with tropical fruits. Spend the rest of the evening enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and listening to the sounds of the sea.
After breakfast, take a boat trip to the scenic Îles du Salut, a group of islands with intriguing histories. Explore the remnants of the infamous penitentiary and learn about its past during a guided tour. Witness the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from various vantage points.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the islands, surrounded by lush vegetation and pristine beaches. Spend time snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters or simply relaxing on the sand. Capture the breathtaking scenery with photographs as you soak up the sun.
Return to Kourou and unwind at your hotel or guesthouse. Treat yourself to a quiet dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties. As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll along the coastline, watching the colors of twilight over the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $50-90 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $40-70 |
| 🧭Public transport or taxi start | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to rainforest and beaches
- Access to the Guiana Space Centre and space-related tourism
- Warm, friendly, multicultural communities
- Safe, manageable size with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
- Relatively remote from major hubs; travel times can be long
- High heat and humidity; mosquitoes in forested areas
- Some services may be cash-only in smaller venues
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "Comment vous appelez-vous ?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Kourou
Visit one of these nice places.
Exterior views of the space centre with rainforest and coastal backdrops; great for wide-angle rocket silhouettes on launch days or silhouettes at dusk.
Colorful boats, palm-lined quays, and golden hour reflections create vibrant waterfront photography.
Palm trees, sea spray, and sunset skies offer classic tropical landscape shots.
Food in Kourou
Kourou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant Caribbean curry-style stew using a Colombo spice mix; commonly served with rice or roti at Creole eateries.
Must-Try!
Flatbread filled with curried chicken and potatoes, a popular street-food choice at markets and stalls.
Fish cooked in coconut milk and spices, often enjoyed at seaside restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can sample tropical fruit, fresh fish, and ready-to-eat Creole snacks.
Casual vendors along the quay offer quick bites like fried plantains, accras (fried cod fritters), and fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; a handshake is common. Use 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' in formal settings.
French is the official language; Guianan Creole is widely spoken. Be polite, patient, and respectful in conversations.
Respect protected areas, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife in forested or coastal zones.
Safety
Tipping in Kourou
Ensure a smooth experience
In French Guiana, service charges are often included; a small extra tip (5–10%) for excellent service is appreciated but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns; carry some cash for markets and small vendors who may only take cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Less rainfall, comfortable to hot days, ideal for outdoor activities and beach time; evenings stay warm and breezy.
Frequent tropical downpours and high humidity; lush greenery everywhere and more rainfall in short bursts—pack quick-dry clothing.
Kourou at Night
Hiking in Kourou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rainforest trails with rich biodiversity and river crossings; guided tours available.
Protected forest area with varied terrain, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Kourou by plane.
Main gateway to French Guiana, located near Cayenne; typically a 50–90 minute drive from Kourou depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix including Haitian, Brazilian, Surinamese, and indigenous communities alongside French culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across communities.
Common in schools and local clubs.
Popular along the coast and in rivers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kourou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Kourou you can find vegetarian-friendly options in most Creole restaurants. Look for dishes based on rice, plantains, cassava, beans, and vegetables. Phrases to use: 'sans viande', ' sans poisson', and ask for no fish stock or meat in stews.