10-Day Itinerary for Exploring French Guiana
French Guiana offers a stunning mix of natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. This itinerary balances must-see spots with off-the-beaten-path gems, while also giving you time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Day 1: Arrival in Cayenne
Most trips to French Guiana start in Cayenne, the capital. After your flight, spend the day exploring the city on foot. Check out the lively Place des Palmistes, where you can grab a snack from a nearby café. The colorful houses and colonial architecture make for great photos.
In the evening, head to the local markets to try traditional Creole cuisine. Don’t miss a dish called “accras,” which is fried codfish fritters. It’s a great way to start your adventure.
Day 2: Explore the City of Cayenne
Start your day with a visit to the Musée Départemental. The museum offers insights into the history of French Guiana, including its indigenous cultures and the impact of colonization.
Next, head to the Cacao neighborhood, famous for its Laotian community. With any luck, you’ll be there on a Sunday to experience the bustling Cacao Market. This is a fantastic place to sample Laotian food and buy local handicrafts.
Day 3: Day Trip to Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands)
Take a boat trip to the famous Salvation Islands, located off the coast of Kourou. These islands were once part of a brutal French penal colony, and they still hold remnants of that dark time. Devil’s Island is the most notorious of them all, and seeing it in person brings history to life.
Spend your day walking around the ruins and enjoying the breathtaking views. Don’t forget to look out for local wildlife—you’ll likely see capuchin monkeys and sea turtles.
Day 4: Space at the Guiana Space Centre
French Guiana is famous for its space industry, with the Guiana Space Centre (Centre Spatial Guyanais) in Kourou. Take a tour to see where Europe’s rockets are launched. This is one of the few places in the world where you can witness an actual rocket launch if your timing lines up.
After your tour, visit nearby Kourou Beach to unwind. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax before your next adventure.
Day 5: Visit the Awala-Yalimapo Village
Leave the bustle of the towns behind and head to Awala-Yalimapo, located near the Maroni River. This small Indigenous Kalina village offers a glimpse into traditional river life.
If you visit between April and July, you might catch leatherback sea turtles nesting along the beaches. Otherwise, enjoy the quiet and take time to explore the stunning landscapes nearby.
Day 6: Explore the Maroni River by Boat
The Maroni River separates French Guiana from Suriname. Today, hire a local guide and boat to take you upstream. You’ll pass by small villages along the way, and many of them are only accessible by river, making this a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
In the afternoon, stop at a traditional village to immerse yourself in local culture. This is a great opportunity to interact with locals and purchase unique, hand-made crafts.
Day 7: Visit the Amazonian Park
French Guiana is home to a section of the Amazon rainforest, and today is your chance to experience it. Head to the Amazonian Park (Parc Amazonien de Guyane), a protected area full of wildlife and dense jungle. You’ll need a guide to explore the park, but it’s well worth the trek.
Hike through the rainforest and keep an eye out for wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and colorful birds. Don’t rush this experience—let the sounds and sights sink in as you walk through one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Day 8: Relax in Roura
After a few active days, today is all about relaxing. Head to Roura, a small town near the Orapu River. You can take a boat ride along the river and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re feeling adventurous, visit the nearby waterfalls, such as the Fourgassier waterfall. Otherwise, take it slow and enjoy the fresh local seafood for a relaxing day.
Day 9: Cacao Village and Nature Trails
Today, head back to the village of Cacao, where you visited briefly on Day 2. Spend more time exploring the surrounding nature trails, where you can enjoy quiet walks with stunning views of the jungle. It feels like a hidden gem, where few tourists go, so enjoy the solitude.
Check out some local markets if you didn’t do so before. It’s an excellent spot to buy some souvenirs and chat with locals for cultural insights.
Day 10: Return to Cayenne and Departure
On your last day, return to Cayenne to take in some final sights before heading to the airport. If you have time, visit the Botanical Garden for some tranquility before your flight.
This trip is a beautiful mix of cultural immersion, nature, and history. It balances adventure with relaxing downtime, leaving you with lasting memories of French Guiana’s unique charm.
Leave a reply