Kourou
,Kourou is a town located on the northwestern coast of French Guiana in South America. It is known for being home to the Guiana Space Centre, a major spaceport used by the European Space Agency and the French space agency CNES. The town has a diverse population with a mix of French, Creole, and indigenous cultures.
Kourou is surrounded by lush rainforest and offers opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.
- "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
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Kourou Adventure - 1
morning
:Visit the Guiana Space Centre to learn about the European Space Agency's operations. Explore the visitor center and enjoy the stunning views of the rocket launch pads.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands) by boat. Discover the historic remnants of French penal colonies and relax on the beautiful beaches.
evening
:Conclude your day with a traditional Creole dinner at a local restaurant. The vibrant nightlife in Kourou offers music and dance to immerse yourself in the culture.
Nature Exploration - 2
morning
:Start your day with a guided hike through the Tumuc-Humac mountains. Witness the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of French Guiana.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by breathtaking views. Continue your hike in the afternoon and explore hidden waterfalls.
evening
:Return to Kourou and relax at a local café. Savor a drink while reflecting on your adventures in the wilderness.
Highlights
Good
- Home to the Guiana Space Centre, a major spaceport that offers employment and technological opportunities.
- Rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, including jungles and rivers.
- Cultural diversity with a mixture of French and indigenous influences, leading to unique festivals and traditions.
- Warm tropical climate, attracting visitors year-round.
Bad
- Remote location with limited access to major cities and amenities.
- High humidity and potential for tropical diseases like dengue fever.
- Infrastructure challenges, including limited healthcare and education facilities.
- Higher cost of living compared to mainland France due to its isolated location.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visiting Guiana Space Centre
Explore the European Space Agency's spaceport and witness rocket launches.
Hiking in the Natural Reserves
Discover the diverse flora and fauna while hiking through the natural reserves like Les Nouragues and Parc Amazonien de Guyane.
Boat Tour on the Kourou River
Enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Kourou River, witnessing the stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
Beach and Watersports at Plage du Gosseny
Relax on the beach or indulge in watersports activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking at Plage du Gosseny.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Kourou with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Îles du Salut
Comprising three islands, this former penal colony offers stunning views and historical significance.
Kourou River
The river offers picturesque scenes, especially during sunset, and is a great spot for photos.
Gulf of Kourou
The gulf provides beautiful panoramic views of the coastline and the opportunity for captivating photographs.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Colombo de Poulet
A traditional Creole dish made with chicken, marinated in a rich blend of spices and slow-cooked with vegetables and coconut milk. It can be found at local Creole eateries such as Chez Tatie.
Must-Try!
Pimentade de Poisson
A spicy fish stew made with fresh local catch, tomatoes, peppers, and aromatic herbs. It is widely available at seaside restaurants like La Langouste.
Acoupa Farci
A popular local dish featuring stuffed acoupa fish, typically filled with cassava, spices, and herbs. This delicacy can be savored at Le Poisson d'Or by the Kourou River.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kourou better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Marché aux poissons de Kourou
A bustling fish market offering a vibrant display of freshly caught seafood, where visitors can witness the local fishing culture and sample grilled fish or seafood skewers from the nearby stalls.
Marché de Kourou
A lively market featuring an array of tropical fruits, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can indulge in freshly prepared accras (fritters) or bokits (stuffed fried dough) from various vendors.
Rue Madame Payé
A street renowned for its diverse street food offerings, including bokits, accras, and flavorful Creole dishes prepared by local vendors. It's a hotspot for experiencing authentic Kourou street food culture.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Diversity
In Kourou, it's important to demonstrate respect for the diverse cultural backgrounds present in the community, including the indigenous and Afro-French populations. Embracing diversity and showing cultural sensitivity is highly valued.
Politeness and Formality
Politeness and formality are customary in Kourou, and it's important to greet people with a handshake, maintain eye contact, and use formal titles when addressing individuals, particularly in business or formal settings.
Appreciation for Local Customs
Showing an interest in and appreciation for local customs, traditions, and cuisine is a great way to demonstrate respect in Kourou. Being open to learning about and participating in local customs is highly regarded.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kourou with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Kourou, it is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants or for services, as a service charge is often included in the bill or gratuities are not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service, you may leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.
Payment
In Kourou, French Guiana, the local currency is the Euro (€). Cash is widely accepted, and most establishments also accept major credit cards. It is advisable to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kourou.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (August to December)
The dry season is a great time to visit Kourou as the weather is generally sunny and rain is minimal. This period coincides with the European Spaceport's busiest launch schedule, offering opportunities to witness rocket launches and space events.
Wet Season (January to July)
The wet season in Kourou brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited. However, this period is ideal for birdwatching and experiencing the natural beauty of the region.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Parc Naturel Régional de la Guyane
A large natural park offering numerous trails through diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking and enjoying the flora and fauna of French Guiana.
Les Nourages
A beautiful spot featuring trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and unique biodiversity, located a short distance from Kourou.
Îles du Salut
A group of islands known for their hiking trails, historical significance, and beautiful beaches. Accessible by boat from Kourou.
Crique Moka
Offers hiking trails that wind through rich rainforest, ideal for adventurous hikers looking to explore the natural landscape.
Mont Agoua
The highest point in French Guiana provides a rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and waterways.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kourou through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Kourou by plane.
Jules César Airport (CAY)
Located in Cayenne, French Guiana, approximately 50 km from Kourou. It serves as the main international airport for the region.
Joaquim Nabuco Airport (REK)
Located in Belém, Brazil, approximately 600 km from Kourou. It is a significant international airport serving northern Brazil and offers flights connecting to various international destinations.
Antônio R. de Velasco Airport (MPA)
Located in Macapá, Brazil, approximately 350 km from Kourou. It is an international airport serving the Amapá region of Brazil.
Eduardo Gomes International Airport (MAO)
Located in Manaus, Brazil, approximately 1,000 km from Kourou. It is a major international airport in the Amazon region, connecting various domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Creole
The largest demographic group in Kourou, consisting primarily of people of mixed African and European descent, with cultural influences from both indigenous and African traditions.
Brazilian
A significant population in Kourou, mainly consisting of immigrants from Brazil, particularly from the northern regions, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape.
Hmong
A smaller but notable community originating from Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, who have settled in Kourou.
French
Residents who are originally from mainland France or other parts of the French overseas territories, contributing to the administrative and educational sectors.
Indigenous Peoples
Includes several groups indigenous to the region, with a focus on cultural preservation and integration into the broader society.
Other immigrant groups
Comprising various smaller communities from different parts of the world, including Haiti, Suriname, and other neighboring countries.
The Soul of Kourou
Discover the essence of Kourou through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kourou, with local teams competing in various leagues and many residents participating in informal matches.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Kourou, with local courts and clubs fostering talent and hosting community events.
Athletics
Athletics is widely practiced in Kourou, with events often organized for both children and adults, focusing on track and field disciplines.
Rugby
Rugby has gained popularity in recent years, with clubs forming to promote the sport and organize local competitions.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Kourou, with many residents taking part in cycling events and enjoying the scenic routes.
Swimming
Many residents participate in swimming for leisure and competition, with local facilities available for training and events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Kourou's traditional cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian options like plantain fritters, vegetable accras, and refreshing fruit salads. Vegan visitors can also enjoy fresh fruit smoothies and Creole rice dishes with local vegetables.
Gluten-free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can relish grilled fish, seafood, and flavorful rice-based dishes without wheat ingredients. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with the chefs, who are usually accommodating.