French Guiana may be off the radar for most travelers, but this tiny region in South America offers an exciting mix of cultural diversity, wild nature, and almost untouched landscapes. Whether you’re looking for thick jungles, a glimpse into European space missions, or just want to explore a unique blend of French and Creole cultures, you’ll love it here. In this 14-day itinerary, you’ll experience all French Guiana has to offer, from famous landmarks to hidden gems.
Day 1: Arrival in Cayenne
Start your adventure by landing in Cayenne, the capital city. Once you’ve settled in, take some time to walk around and absorb the feel of this city. The mix of French colonial architecture and tropical surroundings is fascinating. Spend your first evening at the Place des Palmistes, a lively square in the heart of the city where locals relax after a long day.
Grab your first taste of French-Creole cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Try dishes like fricassee or grilled fish, paired with a Ti-Punch, a cocktail made from rum, lime, and sugar—perfect for a relaxing first night.
Day 2: Explore Cayenne
Spend today diving deeper into Cayenne. Start at the Marché de Cayenne, an open-air market filled with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. It’s a great spot to pick up some colorful souvenirs.
Then, head to Fort Cépérou, which offers panoramic views of the city and coastline. A hike up to the fort will give you a sense of Cayenne’s history, as this site was once a colonial stronghold.
Afterward, enjoy a relaxed afternoon along the coast. You can visit the popular Montjoly Beach, where you may spot some local wildlife. Watch the sunset before grabbing dinner at a beachfront café.
Day 3: Kourou
Leave Cayenne for Kourou, a town about an hour’s drive away. Kourou is most famous for the Guiana Space Centre, Europe’s space launch site. Book a tour in advance to see the spaceport up close; it’s a surreal experience where you’ll learn about the satellites launched here.
In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Kourou River to relax and soak in the area’s natural beauty. Enjoy your evening at one of the local riverside restaurants.
Day 4: Îles du Salut
Today, explore the infamous Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands). These islands were once home to one of the harshest prison camps in the world—the most famous being Île du Diable (Devil’s Island). Take a guided tour to learn about the gruesome history of this place.
Despite its dark past, the islands themselves are now a peaceful getaway with beautiful shores and lush landscapes. You can spot monkeys swinging through the trees and enjoy a packed lunch by the water. Head back to Kourou in the late afternoon.
Day 5: Roura and Kaw Marshes
Drive to the small village of Roura, the gateway to the Kaw Marshes, one of the largest wetlands in French Guiana. Join a guided boat tour to spot caimans, birds, and other wildlife. This is one of the best natural attractions in the region, and the peaceful surroundings make you feel a world away.
In the evening, look for an eco-lodge on the marshes to spend the night. Falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle is an unforgettable experience.
Day 6: Kaw Nature Reserve
Spend another day exploring the Kaw Nature Reserve. Head to the village of Kaw to experience the area’s traditional lifestyle. You can meet local artisans, fishermen, or farmers and learn about their day-to-day lives.
In the afternoon, go for a peaceful hike along the trails around the reserve. The primary forest here is rich with plant and animal life; it’s a great place for nature lovers to explore.
Day 7: Sinnamary
On your way out of the Kaw Marshes, stop in the town of Sinnamary. This little town is often overlooked by travelers, but it holds charming surprises. Walk through the peaceful streets to see the old wooden buildings and visit the Petit Musée de Sinnamary for a look into local traditions.
Head to the Sinnamary River for a chance to paddle a canoe through some tranquil waters at your own pace. After your water adventure, relax in a quiet guesthouse where you can enjoy the serenity of small-town French Guiana.
Day 8: Cacao – The Hmong Village
Drive to Cacao, a village founded by the Hmong community that fled Laos. The village market is a great place to start your exploration. Here, you can try Hmong food, which combines Asian and French influences. Visit the Musée des Cultures Guyanaises for a look into their culture and history.
In the afternoon, consider a guided trek through the surrounding forests. With the help of a local guide, you’ll learn about the rich flora and fauna of the area.
Day 9: Coastline Drive to St. Laurent-du-Maroni
Begin your scenic coastal drive to St. Laurent-du-Maroni, located on the border with Suriname. The drive will take around four hours, but feel free to make stops along the way. Visit small villages such as Iracoubo, where you’ll find an impressive church painted entirely by hand.
When you arrive in St. Laurent-du-Maroni, visit the historic transportation camp, where prisoners, including famous figures like Papillon, were once held. This place is a stark reminder of the region’s colonial and penal past.
Day 10: St. Laurent-du-Maroni
Spend today exploring more of St. Laurent-du-Maroni. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the Maroni River, and perhaps even take a boat tour across to Suriname if you’re feeling adventurous.
In the afternoon, visit the local markets and try some of the exotic fruits you’ve probably never heard of. In the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner as you watch the Maroni River flow by.
Day 11: Return to Cayenne
Today, you’ll drive back to Cayenne, but no need to rush. On your way, stop by the town of Tonate or check out some remote beaches that dot the coast. Spend your afternoon strolling the streets of Cayenne one last time.
Grab dinner at a nice Creole restaurant, where you can relax and enjoy some of the last tastes you’ll have while in French Guiana.
Day 12: Reserve Naturelle Trésor
Just outside of Cayenne lies the Reserve Naturelle Trésor. This nature reserve is a hidden gem for hikers and nature lovers. Take a guided walk to learn about the unique ecosystems here. You can encounter eagles, monkeys, and hundreds of plant species.
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon picnic in the reserve. Afterward, drive back to Cayenne for a lazy evening at your hotel or guesthouse.
Day 13: Explore Remire-Montjoly
Just a short drive from Cayenne, you’ll find Remire-Montjoly, a perfect spot for beach lovers. Spend your day relaxing on the beach or walking along the coast, dipping your toes in the Atlantic. It’s also a great spot to witness leatherback turtles laying their eggs, depending on the season.
If you’re up for more exploring, visit the nearby ruins of Fort Diamant and take a quiet walk to soak up the history.
Day 14: Departure
Squeeze in one last relaxed breakfast in Cayenne before heading to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your incredible two weeks, filled with natural wonders, fascinating history, and cultural uniqueness.
French Guiana may not be the most popular travel destination, but its beauty and raw authenticity make it a trip you’ll never forget.
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