If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in South America, French Guiana is a fantastic option. With its colonial history, diverse culture, and vast rainforests, this small country offers a unique blend of French and South American experiences. You won’t need to rush through it; here’s a 5-day itinerary that allows you to soak up its diverse offerings at a relaxed pace.
Day 1: Arrival in Cayenne
Start your trip in Cayenne, French Guiana’s capital. It’s a small city, but it’s full of charm and culture. After you land, take some time to settle into your accommodation. There are plenty of small hotels—nothing too fancy, but perfect for a comfortable stay.
Once you’re ready to explore, head to the Place des Palmistes. It’s one of the city’s main squares surrounded by palm trees, offering a great spot to stretch your legs after your flight. Here you’ll find colonial buildings that give you a sense of the town’s history. You can even stop for a quick coffee or snack at one of the nearby cafés.
If you’re up for more walking, visit the traditional market at Place du Coq. You’ll find fresh fruits, spices, and local crafts. It’s a great way to start immersing yourself in the local culture.
For dinner, try one of Cayenne’s Creole or French restaurants. Options like Le Panoramique won’t disappoint. French Guiana has an interesting blend of French and Caribbean cuisine, so be sure to try a seafood dish.
Day 2: Visit the Guiana Space Centre
A short drive from Cayenne is Kourou, where you’ll find the Guiana Space Centre. It’s one of the most important rocket launch sites in the world. Even if you’re not into space, the facility is fascinating. Tour availability varies, so book ahead online if possible.
The tour will give you insight into the history of space exploration in the region. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a rocket launch—these happen several times a year, and it’s an unforgettable experience.
After visiting the Space Centre, spend some time in Kourou. Walk around the beach area and take in the Atlantic Ocean views. If you have time, visit the Musée de l’Espace, which expands on what you saw at the Space Centre.
In the evening, head back to Cayenne or stay overnight in Kourou. Either way, relax with a calm evening and enjoy more of the locale’s fresh seafood dishes.
Day 3: Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands)
From Kourou, take a day trip to the Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands). These islands are most famous as the site of the former French penal colony, including the notorious Devil’s Island. The trip usually takes about an hour by boat.
Go on a guided tour if you want to understand the area’s dark history. Walking around the ruins of the prison buildings is fascinating in a haunting way. Despite their past, the islands are now picturesque, surrounded by clear blue waters and lush greenery.
Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it near the water. You can even take a swim at Île Royale, the largest of the three islands. There are hiking trails around the islands too, if you’re feeling adventurous.
Return to Kourou by late afternoon and decide if you’d like to stay here or drive back to Cayenne for the night.
Day 4: Discover the Countryside and Cacao Village
On this day, head into the countryside. A great first stop is the village of Cacao, about an hour and a half from Cayenne. Cacao was originally settled by Hmong refugees from Laos, and today you can visit the Sunday market to sample delicious Laotian food alongside French Guianan fare.
Check out the Musée des Cultures Guyanaises in Cacao. It’s a small museum, but it does a fantastic job of showcasing the different cultures of French Guiana’s unique communities.
Once you’ve finished exploring the village, take a short drive to the nearby waterfalls—there are a few worth visiting. The Chutes de Fourgassier offer a peaceful and scenic break. You can relax here, have a swim, or simply enjoy being in the heart of nature.
Day 5: Explore Nature at Kaw Marshes
For your final day, it’s time to dive into French Guiana’s immense natural beauty. Spend the day exploring the Kaw Marshes, one of the largest wetland areas in the country. You can arrange a boat tour that takes you through the swamps, where you’ll have the chance to see caimans, birds, and other wildlife.
If you’re a birdwatcher, this is paradise. Bring binoculars and keep an eye out for macaws, herons, and an impressive variety of other species. The tour can take a half or full day depending on how much time you want to spend, but I suggest giving yourself enough time to really take in the scenery.
After the tour, head back to Cayenne for your last evening in French Guiana. Consider having dinner at La Petite Maison, a fantastic restaurant to wrap up your trip with some Creole-inspired cuisine.
Additional Tips
French Guiana can be hot and humid, so dress accordingly. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing is a good idea to keep cool while protecting yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
Renting a car is the easiest way to get around. The country is small, and roads between major destinations are straightforward.
Lastly, French Guiana is still an overseas department of France, so you’ll need euros for currency, and don’t forget your passport and any necessary visas.
With a blend of historical, cultural, and natural sights, this 5-day trip offers a well-rounded experience in a part of South America that many travelers overlook. French Guiana is full of hidden treasures, and you’ll leave with memories you won’t soon forget.
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