Things To Do
in Roura
Roura sits along the edge of the Guiana Amazonian rainforest in eastern French Guiana, with rivers framing the landscape and dense forest all around. This rural commune serves as a gateway to biodiversity, with easy access to Nouragues Reserve and Approuague River excursions. The town blends Creole, Indigenous, and migrant influences, evident in its markets, music, and street life.
The coordinates 4.73, -52.33 place you in a lush, humid tropical setting ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and curious travelers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Roura and settle into your accommodations in this peaceful village surrounded by lush rainforest. Spend some time getting acquainted with the local environment and its vibrant flora and fauna. Begin your journey with a leisurely breakfast enjoying traditional Guianese dishes.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the village to learn about its culture, history, and the diversity of its community. Explore charming local markets where you can interact with friendly vendors and discover unique handicrafts. Finish your afternoon by taking a gentle walk along the banks of the Maroni River.
As night falls, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Creole cuisine. Engage with locals and share stories over a glass of rum while listening to the sounds of the forest. Retire early to rest for the exciting days ahead.
Begin your adventure with an early breakfast before heading out to the Tumuc-Humac Mountains on a guided expedition. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes filled with diverse wildlife and lush greenery. Capture the beauty of the morning light filtering through the dense canopy as you trek through the trails.
After exploring the peaks, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the melodic sounds of the rainforest. Continue your hike by visiting waterfalls and natural pools for a refreshing swim. This afternoon, soak in the pristine environment while spotting unique bird species and other wildlife.
Return to Roura just in time for sunset, where you can witness the sky transforming into a canvas of warm colors. Experience a traditional dinner, sampling local fish and starch preparations at a riverside eatery. Spend your evening marveling at the starry skies, far from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚗Local transport (taxi/bus) per ride | $5-20 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning biodiversity and rainforest scenery
- Genuine Creole and Indigenous culture in a small-town setting
- Easy access to Nouragues Reserve and river trips
- Relaxed pace and fewer crowds compared with bigger towns
- Limited amenities and nightlife
- Remote logistics can make transport and planning slow
- Very humid climate and heavy rainfall during the wet season
- Rougher roads in rainy periods and limited public transit outside peak towns
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
- "J'aimerais une table pour deux." - I would like a table for two.
Places to Visit in Roura
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light filters through giant rainforest trees; look for subtle leaf textures and families of birds.
Silhouettes of mangroves and boats as the river wakes; ideal for long-exposure reflections.
Vibrant stalls with colorful produce and smiling traders; great for portraits and street photography.
Calm waters and silhouettes of canoes as the sky softens to pinks and oranges.
Food in Roura
Roura Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh river fish simmered in a coconut milk and Creole-spice broth, a staple of coastal villages.
Must-Try!
Smoke-grilled chicken served with rice, beans and the tangy Creole sauce chien.
Crab simmered with coconut and plantains for a hearty, beach-to-table dish.
Fresh palm heart salad with lime, herbs and pepper.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful stalls with fresh fruit, river fish, cassava, and spices.
Casual mobile stands offering fried plantains, fish cakes, and fresh juice along the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly Bonjour or Bonsoir goes a long way; greet shopkeepers before asking questions.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid loud behavior in forest areas; dress modestly and tread lightly on trails.
Safety
Tipping in Roura
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants is common; rounding up at casual spots is fine.
Euro is the currency; cash is widely accepted, cards are common in town centers, and ATMs are more common in Cayenne and Kourou; small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy and rivers swollen; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Little rain, clearer skies, and comfortable temperatures; mosquitoes persist; bring repellent and sun protection.
Roura at Night
Hiking in Roura
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive rainforest trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Riverine trails with opportunities for birdwatching and river views.
Airports
How to reach Roura by plane.
Main gateway to the region; 40–60 minutes by road to Roura depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving the coastal area; transfers to Cayenne are available by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largely descendant from African and European ancestry; a core part of local culture.
Influence local arts, languages, and craft traditions in the region.
French Guiana's diverse population includes families and workers from neighboring regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely played in schools and in street games.
Common in community centers and schools; local leagues run during weekends.
River fishing and boating are common leisure activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roura.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on plantain, cassava, beans, fruits, and vegetable curries; ask for vegetable stews with beans or lentils and avoid fish-based broths.