Things To Do
in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni sits along the Maroni River at coordinates 5.4976, -54.0325, on the western edge of French Guiana near the Suriname border. It is a town with a rich mix of Creole, Indigenous, and Afro-descendant cultures. From its riverfront to its markets, the town offers a gateway to both rainforest adventures and coastal ecosystems.
Nearby islands along the Maroni and historic sites recall the region's colonial and penal history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the airport and take a scenic drive to your accommodation, where the warm tropical atmosphere welcomes you. Settle in and enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the lush surroundings. Explore the neighborhood and acclimate to the vibrant local culture.
Head to the town center and visit the Hôtel de Ville, a charming historical site. Wander through the local markets to sample delicious Creole cuisine and browse handmade crafts. Engage with friendly locals who can share stories about the area’s rich history.
Savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, featuring flavors inspired by Caribbean and South American influences. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Maroni River as the sunset paints the sky in shades of orange and pink. Listen to the sounds of the night as you experience the lively atmosphere of this unique town.
Take a guided boat tour on the Maroni River, learning about its ecological significance and the biodiversity that thrives within it. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as dolphins and exotic birds while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding jungle. Enjoy a picnic breakfast on a secluded bank, fully immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Continue your river excursion by visiting a traditional Maroon village, where you’ll gain insight into the cultural heritage and practices of the local Amerindian communities. Engage with community members and witness traditional practices, such as pottery and basket weaving. Enjoy a delicious homemade lunch prepared by the villagers, featuring local ingredients.
Return to town and experience the lively ambiance at a local bar, where live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Share stories with other travelers and locals while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. As the night goes on, consider joining in a traditional dance if you're feeling adventurous.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚖Taxi 1 km (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🧭Day tour with guide | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and forest access
- Cultural richness and river-based experiences
- Proximity to historic Îles du Salut and coastal ecosystems
- French Guianan hospitality and cuisine
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Remote location can mean slower travel logistics
- Mosquitoes and humid conditions require preparation
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)." - I am vegetarian.
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît." - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on the water, silhouettes of palm trees, and boats lining the shore.
Colorful stalls, bustling activity, and candid portraits of locals in daily life.
A vantage point for river traffic, ferries, and the confluence of border scenery.
Dramatic island silhouettes and historical ruins framed by the sea.
Textured façades and faded paint revealing a storied past.
Food in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod fritters, a staple street snack you’ll find at markets and snack stalls.
Must-Try!
Creole fish curry served with rice and plantains; a fragrant, comforting staple.
A fragrant curry (often with chicken or fish) flavored with local spices and coconut milk.
Soft flatbread stuffed with curried vegetables or meat; a popular portable meal.
Crab-based dish reflecting coastal flavors, best shared with friends.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh fruit, fish, cassava, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Grilled fish, fried plantains, and coconut-based snacks—great for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'; use 'Monsieur/Madame' in formal settings; a polite handshake is common.
French is official; Creole is widely spoken; learning a few phrases helps in daily interactions.
Dress modestly in markets and public spaces; ask permission before photographing people; avoid loud displays of affection in conservative areas.
Be respectful around border communities and follow local guidance when crossing into Suriname or border zones.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge is often included in restaurants; if not, 5–10% tipping is common. Tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but discretionary.
Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments; cash (EUR) remains essential in markets and smaller vendors; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Drier and sunnier days, ideal for river trips and outdoor exploration, though humidity remains high.
Frequent heavy rainfall and high humidity; lush landscapes and abundant wildlife, but plan for rain gear and potential flight or boat delays.
Transitional months with moderate rainfall and comfortable temperatures; good for photography and hiking with fewer crowds.
Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni at Night
Hiking in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lowland rainforest paths along the river with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Beaches and short trails on the historic islands, accessible by boat.
Guided hikes exploring flora and fauna of the broader Amazonian eco-region.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni by plane.
Main international gateway to French Guiana; transfers to Cayenne city and onward to Saint-Laurent by road.
Small regional airstrip serving domestic flights and charter services; useful for accessing interior routes.
Remote regional airport serving interior communities; typically accessed via connections from Cayenne.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core cultural group in the area with strong influences on food, music, and festivals.
Wayãpi and Kali'na communities contribute distinct languages, crafts, and customs to the region.
Influences from Suriname and nearby regions shape daily life and commerce around the Maroni.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and pickup games common in parks and schools.
Common in community centers and schools; casual leagues and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited; look for bean stews, plantains, tubers, rice dishes, and vegetable sides. When ordering, ask for no meat or fish and request stock or sauces to be prepared without animal-derived ingredients.