French Guiana

French Guiana isn’t for typical tourists—it’s expensive, remote, and requires patience. But for those interested in space, history, and raw jungle adventure, it offers a unique and unexpected experience.

Tourist attractions in French Guiana include Cayenne, the vibrant capital of French Guiana, with many interesting sights like the Jesuit-built residence of the Prefect in the Place de Grenoble, the Botanical Gardens, and Iles du Salut (famous for the prison colony Devil’s Island); Kourou, famous for the Guiana Space Center and Sporting and Aero Club; Trésor Nature Reserve; and Amerindian villages of Haut-Maroni and Haut-Oyapoc. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities like sea fishing, boating, trekking, canoeing, swimming, water-skiing, horse riding, and sailing.

The Guiana Space Centre in Kourou is one of the world’s most important rocket launch sites, and seeing a launch here is a rare and unforgettable experience. Beyond space, the country is home to the Îles du Salut, a haunting set of islands best known for the infamous Devil’s Island prison, and the sprawling Amazon rainforest, teeming with wildlife. French Guiana is an odd mix—part tropical jungle, part European bureaucracy, and part former penal colony—all wrapped into one.

French Guiana is expensive compared to the rest of South America. Prices are similar to mainland France, and budget travel is difficult due to the lack of cheap accommodation and transport. Hotels are pricey, and dining out isn’t cheap, though Creole street food—like grilled fish, colombo (a Caribbean curry), and accras (fried cod fritters)—offers more affordable options. As a French territory, Western food is widely available, with excellent bakeries and imported French wines.

Getting around is challenging. Public transport is limited, and renting a car is the best way to explore. The road network is decent along the coast but disappears in the interior, where travel is by boat or small plane. Safety is generally good, though petty crime can be an issue in Cayenne. The biggest challenges are the heat, humidity, and the mosquitoes—malaria and dengue fever are concerns, especially in the jungle. French is the official language, and while some locals speak Creole or indigenous languages, English is not widely spoken.

Why Go to French Guiana?

• Guiana Space Centre: One of the world’s most important rocket launch sites, with regular launches open to the public.

• Îles du Salut & Devil’s Island: A former French penal colony in the Atlantic, known for its haunting history and rugged beauty.

• Amazon Rainforest Adventures: French Guiana’s interior is dense jungle, home to jaguars, giant otters, and indigenous communities.

• A Taste of France in the Tropics: Baguettes, fine wine, and French bureaucracy—all in the middle of South America.

• Cayenne’s Creole Culture: The capital blends French, Caribbean, and indigenous influences, with colorful markets and spicy cuisine.

• Maroni River Expeditions: A journey along this river reveals indigenous villages, dense jungle, and the edge of the Amazon basin.

• Unspoiled Nature & Wildlife: From sea turtles nesting on the beaches to caimans lurking in the swamps, French Guiana is wild and untouched.

French Guiana is an overseas department of France located on the northeastern coast of South America. It is bordered by Brazil to the south and east, Suriname to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. Though geographically part of South America, it is politically and administratively part of France and the European Union, using the euro as its currency.

French Guiana consists of coastal plains, dense tropical rainforests, and a network of rivers. About 90% of the territory is covered by Amazon rainforest, making it one of the least developed and most biodiverse areas in South America. The coastal region is home to most of the population, including the capital, Cayenne, while the interior remains sparsely inhabited, with indigenous and Maroon communities living along the rivers.

Tourism in French Guiana revolves around wildlife, space exploration, and colonial history. The Guiana Space Centre is one of the world’s most important satellite launch sites. The region’s national parks protect rare wildlife, including jaguars, caimans, and sea turtles. The climate is equatorial, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round, along with a rainy season from December to July.

Most visitors arrive via Cayenne – Félix Eboué Airport, which has flights from France, Brazil, and the Caribbean. Overland entry is possible from Suriname via a ferry crossing at Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni and from Brazil at Oiapoque, where a bridge connects the two countries.

Coastal Region

The coastal area is the most developed part of French Guiana, with colonial towns, beaches, and the Guiana Space Centre.

• cayenne – The capital, with French colonial buildings, markets, and a mix of cultures.
• kourou – Home to the Guiana Space Centre, where European rockets are launched.
• iles-du-salut – A group of islands including Devil’s Island, a former penal colony.
• remire-montjoly – A beach town near Cayenne with hiking trails and sea turtle nesting sites.

Rainforest and Interior

The interior of French Guiana is covered by dense Amazonian rainforest, with rivers serving as the main transportation routes. This region is rich in biodiversity and indigenous cultures.

• saint-laurent-du-maroni – A river town with colonial architecture and access to Suriname.
• maripasoula – A remote town deep in the Amazon, accessible mainly by plane or boat.
• saul – A small village serving as a base for hiking and jungle expeditions.
• parc-amazonien-de-guyane – A vast national park protecting rainforest, indigenous tribes, and wildlife.

Start in cayenne, the capital, where Creole, French, and Indigenous cultures blend. Stroll through the colonial-era streets, visit the musee-departemental-franconie, and explore the lively marche-de-cayenne, where you can try local delicacies like bouillon d’awara and grilled river fish. The nearby montjoly-beach is a great spot to see leatherback turtles nesting at certain times of the year.

One of the region’s most haunting yet fascinating sites is iles-du-salut (Salvation Islands). Among them, devils-island is the most infamous, once home to one of history’s most notorious penal colonies. The prison ruins on ile-royale tell a grim story of hardship and exile. The islands, however, are also incredibly scenic, with palm-fringed beaches, wild monkeys, and stunning ocean views.

For something completely different, head to kourou, home to the guiana-space-centre, Europe’s main space launch site. If your timing is right, you can watch a rocket launch from the centre-spatial-guyanais, a surreal contrast to the surrounding rainforest.

Speaking of rainforest, kaw-marshes is one of the best places to experience the region’s wild side. A vast wetland teeming with caimans, exotic birds, and howler monkeys, it’s best explored by boat. Further inland, saul is a remote jungle village that serves as a gateway to some of the best Amazonian hikes in French Guiana.

If you want a mix of adventure and culture, saint-laurent-du-maroni is worth the trip. Once the main arrival point for convicts, the camp-de-la-transportation prison still stands as a reminder of French Guiana’s harsh penal history. From here, you can take a boat trip up the maroni-river, visiting Indigenous villages and learning about the region’s diverse cultures.

Highlights

• iles-du-salut – A group of islands with a grim past, stunning views, and wildlife.
• guiana-space-centre – One of the world’s top space launch sites, open for tours.
• kaw-marshes – A vast wetland home to caimans, birds, and remote nature lodges.
• camp-de-la-transportation – A former prison in saint-laurent-du-maroni, central to French Guiana’s penal history.
• saul – A remote jungle outpost perfect for deep Amazon hikes.

Top Cities

• cayenne – The lively capital, blending Creole, Indigenous, and French influences.
• kourou – A space-age town home to the guiana-space-centre.
• saint-laurent-du-maroni – A river town with a dark history and access to Indigenous villages.
• roura – A small settlement with access to the kaw-marshes and pristine rainforest.
• maripasoula – A remote Amazonian town on the border with Suriname.

Islands & Beaches

• ile-royale – The largest of the Salvation Islands, with prison ruins and great views.
• devils-island – The most notorious of the former penal colonies.
• montjoly-beach – A long stretch of sand near Cayenne, great for turtle watching.
• les-hattes-beach – A major nesting site for leatherback turtles.
• ilet-la-mere – A small island home to a colony of squirrel monkeys.

National Parks & Reserves

• guiana-amazonian-park – One of the largest protected rainforest areas in the world.
• kaw-roura-nature-reserve – A wetland ecosystem with incredible biodiversity.
• amana-nature-reserve – A major nesting site for leatherback turtles.
• trinite-nature-reserve – A remote jungle area home to jaguars and rare wildlife.

World Heritage

(None yet, but the iles-du-salut and guiana-amazonian-park are strong contenders for future recognition.)

High Season: July–November
Shoulder Season: December–January
Low Season: February–June

French Guiana enjoys a hot and humid tropical climate with little seasonal variation in temperature. French Guiana has a hot, humid tropical climate with a distinct rainy and dry season. The best time to visit is during the dry season (July–November), when the weather is more comfortable, and outdoor activities are easier. The wet season (February–June) brings heavy rain, making travel difficult, especially in jungle areas.

High Season

From July to November, French Guiana experiences drier weather with fewer rain showers and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time for exploring the Amazonian rainforest, visiting the Îles du Salut, or spotting sea turtles on the beaches. The Guiana Space Centre in Kourou also has regular rocket launches during this period. Mosquitoes are still present, but conditions are more bearable than in the wet season.

Shoulder Season

December and January see a mix of dry and wet weather. Rainfall increases, but there are still plenty of sunny days. This period also marks the start of the lively Carnival season, one of the biggest cultural events in the region, running from early January to Ash Wednesday.

Low Season

From February to June, the rainy season is in full swing, with frequent heavy downpours and high humidity. Some jungle lodges and remote areas become difficult to access, and roads can flood. However, the rainforest is lush and teeming with wildlife. If you don’t mind the rain, this is the best time to experience the region’s biodiversity at its peak.

French Guiana is one of South America’s most intriguing destinations—an overseas region of France with a mix of Amazonian jungle, Creole culture, and European infrastructure. It’s a place where you can explore the dense rainforest, watch rocket launches at a world-class spaceport, and visit former penal colonies with dark histories. Unlike its larger neighbors, French Guiana remains off the beaten path, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking for adventure, wildlife, and history.

This small but diverse region is home to stunning wildlife, including giant river otters, caimans, and some of the world’s largest leatherback turtles. The beaches are unspoiled, the rainforest is nearly untouched, and the blend of cultures—from Indigenous to French to Creole—makes for a unique travel experience. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, exploring the colonial streets of Cayenne, or visiting the infamous Devil’s Island, French Guiana is a destination full of surprises.

• Scuba Diving: Some diving near the Îles du Salut, but visibility is often poor due to river sediments.
• Motorcycle Touring: Limited roads, but good jungle rides along the Route de l’Est and Route de l’Ouest.
• Nightlife & Partying: Cayenne has a few clubs and bars, but nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other South American destinations.
• Rock Climbing: Limited climbing opportunities, but some jungle cliffs and rock faces are climbable.
• Bicycle Touring: Some scenic coastal roads, but humidity, rain, and rough terrain make it challenging.
• Golfing: A single golf course in Kourou, but not a major attraction.
• Shopping: French imports are expensive, but local markets offer good spices, rum, and Creole crafts.
• Trekking: Incredible jungle trekking, particularly in the Amazon basin and the Tumuc-Humac mountains.
• Mountain Biking: Some good off-road trails in the rainforest, but infrastructure is limited.
• White Water Rafting: Some opportunities on jungle rivers, but not well-developed.
• Wind Surfing: Good windsurfing conditions, particularly along the Atlantic coast near Cayenne.

Cultural Experiences

French Guiana’s history is shaped by Indigenous cultures, colonial rule, and its role as a penal colony. The mix of French, Creole, and Brazilian influences makes for a fascinating cultural blend.

• Exploring Cayenne’s Colonial Center: A mix of colorful Creole houses, French colonial buildings, and lively street markets.
• Visiting the Space Center in Kourou: The Guiana Space Centre is one of the world’s leading spaceports, with regular rocket launches.
• Learning About the Penal Colonies of Îles du Salut: These infamous islands, including Devil’s Island, housed some of France’s most notorious prisoners.
• Experiencing Creole Culture in a Traditional Village: French Guiana has a strong Creole identity, best experienced through its music, food, and festivals.
• Discovering the Hmong Community in Cacao: A surprising Southeast Asian influence in the jungle, where Hmong refugees from Laos settled and now run markets and farms.

Natural Experiences

French Guiana is covered in thick jungle, offering some of the best wildlife spotting in South America. With its rivers, coastal mangroves, and protected reserves, nature lovers will find plenty to explore.

• Watching Leatherback Turtles Nest on the Beach: The beaches of Awala-Yalimapo are one of the best places in the world to see these massive turtles lay eggs.
• Exploring the Kaw Marshes: A wetland paradise teeming with caimans, river otters, and exotic birds, best explored by boat.
• Hiking in the Amazon Rainforest: French Guiana’s rainforest is nearly untouched, offering an authentic jungle experience.
• Spotting Jaguars in Nouragues Nature Reserve: One of the few places where jaguars can still be seen in the wild.
• Exploring the Tumuc-Humac Mountains: A remote and mysterious mountain range, rarely visited and full of uncharted jungle.

Urban Experiences

Though French Guiana is mostly wilderness, its small cities and towns have their own charm and cultural uniqueness.

• Strolling the Waterfront in Cayenne: The capital’s lively market, colonial architecture, and ocean views make it a pleasant place to explore.
• Visiting the Musée Départemental in Cayenne: A great place to learn about the region’s history, from Indigenous tribes to colonial times.
• Exploring the Streets of Kourou: A town that exists because of the space program, with a mix of modern and tropical influences.
• Checking Out the Marché de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni: A lively border town with a strong Surinamese influence, best known for its colorful market.
• Tasting French Guianese Cuisine: A mix of French, Creole, and Brazilian flavors, with dishes like Blaff de Poisson (fish stew) and Colombo de Poulet (chicken curry).

Unique Experiences

French Guiana is one of the most off-the-beaten-path destinations in South America, offering unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

• Watching a Rocket Launch at the Guiana Space Centre: One of the few places in the world where you can see a live space launch.
• Touring the Infamous Devil’s Island: Once home to the notorious French penal colony, this island has a dark and fascinating history.
• Taking a Canoe Trip to Remote Indigenous Villages: Deep in the jungle, these villages offer an authentic look at traditional Indigenous life.
• Exploring the Maroni River by Boat: This river separates French Guiana from Suriname and is one of the best ways to see jungle life.
• Discovering the Forgotten Gold Mines of the Interior: Gold mining has long been part of the region’s economy, and some abandoned mines are now eerie relics.

Weird and Wonderful

French Guiana has its fair share of bizarre and fascinating sights, from space-age technology to ancient jungle mysteries.

• Finding the “Guianese Stonehenge” at Anse Cafard: A little-known archaeological site with mysterious rock formations.
• Exploring the Hidden Jungle Plane Wrecks: Abandoned aircraft from various eras can be found deep in the rainforest.
• Seeing the Enormous French Military Presence: Unlike the rest of South America, French Guiana has a significant French military base.
• Spotting Gold Panners in the Wild: Illegal gold miners, known as “garimpeiros,” still operate deep in the jungle, often living in hidden camps.
• Visiting the Floating Houses of the Maroni River: Entire communities live in floating wooden houses on the water, creating a unique river culture.

French Guiana is only accessible by air, land, and river, with flights from France and neighboring South American countries and border crossings with Brazil and Suriname. There are no international passenger trains, and while there is no road to Venezuela, travel via Brazil is possible. The only European territory in South America, French Guiana is part of France and the EU, meaning Schengen visa rules apply.

For most travelers, flying into Cayenne from France, Brazil, or Suriname is the easiest way in. Overland travel from Brazil and Suriname is possible, but border crossings often require a ferry or river boat.

French Guiana is well connected by air with many countries in South America and Europe, especially France. Flights are available to Canada, Brazil, Ecuador, Suriname and Venezuela. It is also connected to Miami (USA) via Guadeloupe and Martinique. Ferry services to Albina (Surinam) are also available. One can also fly from Cayenne to St Georges (Guiana) then take a launch to Oiapoque in Brazil. Bus services from Cayenne to Paramaribo (Surinam) are also available.

By Air

French Guiana’s only international airport is in Cayenne, with flights from France, Brazil, Suriname, and the Caribbean.

• Félix Eboué International Airport (CAY) – Cayenne (Only international airport, flights to Paris, Brazil, Suriname, and the Caribbean)

Direct flights to French Guiana operate on Air France and Air Caraïbes from Paris. Regional flights connect to Brazil, Suriname, and Guadeloupe.

• Paris-Orly (ORY) → Cayenne (CAY) (Air France, Air Caraïbes, ~9h)
• Belém (Brazil) → Cayenne (Surinam Airways, ~2h)
• Paramaribo (Suriname) → Cayenne (Surinam Airways, ~1h)
• Fort-de-France (Martinique) → Cayenne (Air Caraïbes, ~2.5h)

By Train

There are no railways in French Guiana.

By Bus

There are no international buses to French Guiana, but minibuses operate between Cayenne and border towns at St. Georges (Brazil) and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni (Suriname).

By Car

French Guiana has two international land borders, with Brazil and Suriname. There is no road connection to Venezuela.

From Brazil, the main border crossing is at Oiapoque – St. Georges, connected by a bridge over the Oyapock River. From Suriname, travel requires a short ferry ride over the Maroni River at Albina – Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.

Driving in French Guiana is relatively easy, but renting a car in Suriname or Brazil and taking it across the border is often restricted.

To & From Brazil

French Guiana shares a border with Brazil at Oiapoque – St. Georges. A bridge connects the two, but public transport across is unreliable.

• Oiapoque – St. Georges (Oyapock Bridge) (Cross by taxi or private car)

To & From Suriname

The only way to cross from Suriname to French Guiana is by ferry or river boat at Albina – Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.

• Albina – Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni (Ferry or pirogue boat) (Hourly crossings, subject to river conditions)

French Guiana’s transport system is limited but functional. Renting a car is the best option, while bush taxis and boats are necessary for reaching remote areas. Plan ahead, especially if traveling outside major towns, as public transport is unreliable.

French Guiana has no rail network and a limited public transport system. Most travel is done by car, shared taxis, or riverboats. Roads are well-paved in urban areas but can be rough in the interior. If you’re venturing beyond Cayenne, Kourou, or Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, having a car or taking a boat is essential.

Train

There are no trains in French Guiana.

Bus

Bus services are limited and mainly operate in and around Cayenne. The regional bus network, SMTC, connects Cayenne with Kourou and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, but schedules are inconsistent, and buses don’t run late at night. For travel between towns, shared taxis (bush taxis) are more reliable.

Car Rental

Renting a car is the best way to get around. Major roads are paved, but if you plan to explore the rainforest or remote villages, a 4x4 is recommended.
- Driving is on the right.
- Gas stations can be far apart, especially in the interior.
- Beware of wildlife on the roads, especially at night.

Ride Share

There are no ride-share apps like Uber or Lyft in French Guiana. Taxis and rental cars are the main transport options.

Ferries & Riverboats

With many areas only accessible by water, pirogues (motorized dugout canoes) and ferries are essential in French Guiana.
- Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni to Suriname: A regular ferry and informal pirogues cross the Maroni River to Albina, Suriname.
- Oiapoque (Brazil) to Saint-Georges: A ferry and small boats cross the Oyapock River from Brazil.
- Amazon basin transport: Boats are used for reaching villages in the jungle.

Air

There are no domestic flights within French Guiana due to the country’s small size. However, Cayenne’s Félix Eboué Airport (CAY) has flights to:
- Paris (France) via Air France and Air Caraïbes.
- Fort-de-France (Martinique) and Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe).
- Belém (Brazil) and Paramaribo (Suriname).

Taxis

Taxis are available in Cayenne and major towns but can be expensive. They are not metered, so always negotiate the fare before starting the trip. Shared taxis (taxi collectifs or bush taxis) are more affordable for intercity travel.

French Guiana offers a mix of accommodations, from budget guesthouses and riverside lodges to mid-range hotels and eco-resorts deep in the rainforest. The country has no large resorts or international hotel chains, but Cayenne and Kourou have a decent selection of business hotels and boutique stays. In the interior, lodges cater to nature lovers, often providing guided jungle excursions and traditional wooden bungalows.

Budget travelers will find a handful of hostels and affordable guesthouses in Cayenne, but overall, accommodation in French Guiana is more expensive than in neighboring Suriname or Brazil. Airbnb is available in urban areas, often providing a better deal than hotels. For those seeking adventure, traditional lodges along the Maroni and Oyapock rivers offer a unique experience, with stays often including boat transport and jungle hikes.

It’s important to book in advance, especially during peak travel months (July–December) and major events like Carnival. In remote areas, accommodations are often all-inclusive due to the lack of nearby services, which raises costs but enhances the experience.

Budget Travelers: Hostels and simple guesthouses cost around €25–€60 per night. Dorm beds in the few available hostels range from €20–€40, while private rooms in budget lodgings cost €50+. Rural guesthouses can be cheaper but may lack amenities like air conditioning.

Mid-Range: Comfortable three-star hotels in Cayenne and Kourou range from €80–€150 per night. Many offer breakfast and air-conditioned rooms. In the interior, eco-lodges fall into this price range but often include meals and excursions.

Upscale: Luxury accommodations are rare, but high-end lodges in the jungle can cost €200–€400 per night, often including full board and guided activities. Boutique hotels in Cayenne and Kourou offer stylish stays for €150–€250 per night.

Hotels

Hotels are mainly found in Cayenne, Kourou, and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. Most are mid-range business hotels or boutique properties, with prices starting at €80 per night. Many offer air conditioning, which is essential in the humid climate. In Kourou, hotels cater to visitors touring the Guiana Space Centre.

Hostels

Hostels are rare in French Guiana, but a few exist in Cayenne, offering dorm beds for €20–€40 per night. Most budget travelers opt for guesthouses, which provide private rooms at a slightly higher cost. In the jungle, some lodges offer dorm-style accommodations for travelers on a budget.

Backpacker

Backpacking in French Guiana is challenging due to the high costs and lack of hostels. Budget travelers rely on guesthouses (€25–€60 per night) and camping in remote areas. Public transport is limited, so getting to rural lodges can be expensive. Couchsurfing exists but is not widely used.

Flashpacker

Flashpackers will find stylish boutique hotels in Cayenne and Kourou, with prices ranging from €80–€150 per night. Airbnb rentals in these cities also provide comfortable stays. In the interior, eco-lodges offer a mix of adventure and comfort, often with full board and guided activities.

Homestays

Homestays are available in indigenous villages along the Maroni and Oyapock rivers, usually arranged through tour operators. Prices range from €40–€100 per night, often including meals. Staying with a local family provides insight into traditional lifestyles but may require some knowledge of French or Portuguese.

Camping

Camping is possible but not common. Some eco-lodges allow camping on their grounds for a small fee (€10–€20 per night). Wild camping in the rainforest is only recommended for experienced adventurers due to wildlife and safety concerns. In the Îles du Salut, camping is not officially permitted, but some travelers arrange hammock stays with local caretakers.

Unique Stays

French Guiana’s best unique accommodations are its jungle lodges. Located along the Maroni, Approuague, and Oyapock rivers, these lodges provide rustic yet comfortable stays surrounded by nature. Many include boat trips, wildlife spotting, and traditional Creole or Amerindian meals. Prices range from €100–€400 per night, often including guided excursions. Another unique stay is on Îles du Salut, where visitors can sleep in old prison buildings on Île Royale, experiencing a piece of the region’s dark history.

French Guiana is generally safe for travelers, but crime, health risks, and environmental hazards should be considered. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in Cayenne and other urban areas, particularly at night. Armed robberies and car break-ins occur, so it’s best to avoid walking alone after dark and secure valuables in accommodations. The region has a relatively high crime rate compared to mainland France, though most incidents do not target tourists.

Road conditions vary, with well-maintained highways in urban areas but rougher roads in rural regions. The jungle terrain makes some areas difficult to access, and travel by boat or small aircraft is often necessary. Health risks include mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and malaria, particularly in forested areas. Vaccination for yellow fever is required for entry, and travelers should take precautions against insect bites. Medical care is good in urban centers but limited in remote areas, making travel insurance with evacuation coverage essential.

French Guiana’s natural environment presents challenges, with strong currents along the Atlantic coast, dangerous wildlife in the rainforest, and heavy rainfall that can cause flooding. Women travelers generally feel safe but may experience occasional unwanted attention. With proper precautions, visitors can enjoy the region’s unique mix of French and South American culture and stunning Amazonian landscapes.

Scams & Petty Crime

Petty crime is a concern in Cayenne, where pickpocketing and bag snatching happen in markets, public transport, and near ATMs. Car break-ins and armed robberies have been reported, particularly at night. It’s best to keep valuables out of sight, avoid isolated areas after dark, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Political Unrest

Protests and strikes occur occasionally, sometimes affecting transportation and public services. While usually peaceful, demonstrations can disrupt travel. Travelers should avoid large gatherings and check local news for any planned strikes or road blockages.

Diseases

Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and malaria are present, particularly in jungle regions. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry. Travelers should use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under mosquito nets in forested areas. Tap water in urban areas is generally safe but bottled or filtered water is advised in remote locations.

Road Conditions

Roads in urban areas are good, but many rural routes are unpaved and difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season. Some areas are only accessible by boat or small aircraft. Driving at night is not recommended due to poor lighting and the risk of crime on isolated roads.

Nature’s Fury

French Guiana’s tropical climate means heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong Atlantic currents. Swimming can be dangerous due to powerful waves and rip currents. The rainforest is home to venomous snakes, insects, and other wildlife, so travelers should take precautions when exploring remote areas.

Sexual Harassment

Women travelers generally feel safe but may experience occasional catcalling or unwanted attention, particularly in nightlife settings. Dressing modestly outside of beach areas and staying aware in unfamiliar places can help minimize encounters.

French Guiana is a good option for nomads who want EU-level infrastructure in a tropical setting. However, high costs, limited social life, and a small nomad scene make it better suited for self-sufficient remote workers who enjoy nature and quiet environments.

French Guiana is a unique digital nomad destination, offering a mix of French infrastructure, tropical landscapes, and South American culture. As an overseas department of France, it has EU-level services, reliable internet, and strong legal protections, but it also comes with high costs, limited coworking spaces, and a small expat community. It’s not a typical nomad hotspot, but for those who want an off-the-beaten-path experience with solid connectivity, it can be a great choice.

Coworking spaces are scarce, but La Kazlab in Cayenne is a good option for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Some nomads work from cafés and hotels with stable Wi-Fi, like Hôtel des Palmistes in the city center. The French Guiana Business Incubator (GUYACOM) also offers office space rentals.

• cayenne: The capital and main hub, offering reliable internet, some coworking spaces, and an active social scene.
• kourou: A coastal town known for the Guiana Space Centre, with good amenities and a laid-back vibe.
• saint-laurent-du-maroni: A frontier town on the Suriname border, offering a lower cost of living and a more local experience.

Cost of Living

French Guiana is one of the most expensive places in South America, as most goods are imported from mainland France.

• Accommodation: $800–$2,500 per month. Rentals are highest in Cayenne, while Kourou and smaller towns are more affordable.
• Food: $300–$700 per month. French products are widely available but expensive; local markets offer fresh tropical produce.
• Transportation: $50–$200 per month. Public transport is limited; most expats rent or buy cars.
• Coworking Space: $100–$250 per month. Few options, mostly in Cayenne.
• Leisure & Extras: $100–$400 per month. Includes outdoor activities, dining, and local excursions.

Internet and Connectivity

French Guiana has some of the best internet in South America, with fiber-optic speeds reaching 100–600 Mbps in Cayenne and Kourou. Mobile data (Orange, SFR) is reliable but expensive. In remote areas, coverage can be weak, so having a backup SIM card or satellite internet is a good idea.

Community and Networking

French Guiana has a small but diverse expat and professional community. Many foreigners work in space research (ESA), government, or NGOs, but the digital nomad scene is almost nonexistent. Networking happens through expat Facebook groups, business events, and coworking spaces.

Health & Wellness

French Guiana is great for nature lovers. You can explore the Amazon rainforest, visit the Devil’s Island penal colony, or enjoy beaches along the Atlantic. Gyms and fitness centers are available in Cayenne and Kourou, but outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and running are more popular.

Healthcare is French-standard, meaning excellent but expensive for non-EU citizens. Private insurance is recommended for long-term stays.

Long-Term Stay

Housing is expensive but high-quality, especially in Cayenne and Kourou.

• Condos and Apartments: Modern units in major towns cost $1,000–$2,500 per month.
• Serviced Apartments: Limited availability, mostly in Cayenne, starting at $1,500 per month.
• Traditional Houses: Found in smaller towns, ranging from $800–$1,800 per month.
• Airbnb: Available, but long-term rentals are usually arranged through local agencies.

Visa Options

Since French Guiana is part of France, visa rules follow EU regulations.

• Schengen Visa: Allows stays of up to 90 days for many nationalities.
• Long-Stay Visa (VLS-TS): Required for stays over 90 days, but applications must be processed through the French consulate.
• EU Citizens: Can live and work in French Guiana without restrictions.

The culture reflects French colonial influence, Afro-Caribbean heritage, and indigenous traditions. Creole music, Maroon crafts, and Amerindian festivals all contribute to the local identity. The country’s famous Carnival is one of the longest in the world, running for weeks with masked balls and street parades.

Catholicism is the dominant religion, but animist and indigenous spiritual practices remain strong, particularly in Maroon and Amerindian communities. Voodoo influences can also be found in some coastal towns.

Food

French Guianese cuisine is a mix of French, Creole, and South American flavors, with influences from West African and Asian immigrant communities. Cassava, seafood, rice, and tropical fruits are staples, often paired with spicy sauces.

Language

French is the official language, but Creole, Portuguese, and indigenous languages like Wayana and Palikur are widely spoken. English is not commonly understood outside of the space center and tourist areas.

History

French Guiana’s history is shaped by colonization, slavery, and its role as a penal colony. It was a key part of France’s overseas empire, with indigenous groups, African slaves, and European settlers shaping its identity. The region gained global attention with the establishment of the Guiana Space Center, now Europe’s main satellite launch site.