Day 1: Arrival in Cayenne
After arriving in Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana, take the rest of the day to settle in. Most international flights land here, and you’ll find that it’s the hub for exploring the country.
Stretch your legs by walking around the town. Visit the Place des Palmistes, a central park surrounded by colonial buildings. It’s a great place to get your bearings and watch locals mingle in the evening.
If you’re hungry, hit a local Creole restaurant. Dishes like grilled fish and cassava are popular. Grab a bite and rest up for the adventure ahead.
Where to Stay in Cayenne
I’d recommend staying near the city center. Hotels like Hôtel des Palmistes or even guesthouses like Chez Alice offer comfortable places close to the main attractions.
Day 2: Discover the History of Cayenne
Start your day with a visit to the Musée Départemental Franconie. It offers a great overview of French Guiana’s history and how it was shaped by the indigenous people, the French colonists, and African influences.
Next, take a quick walk to Fort Cépérou. The fort dates back to the 17th century and offers amazing views of the city and coastline. Although much of the fort is in ruins, it’s an excellent spot for photos and seeing Cayenne from above.

By mid-afternoon, head to the Marché de Cayenne (Cayenne Market) where you can immerse yourself in local culture. You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices—perfect for bringing some exotic flavors back home.
Where to Eat
Consider dining at Le Tantina or Le Saigon, depending on what you’re craving. Le Tantina offers French-Creole fusion, while Le Saigon provides some solid Vietnamese cuisine influenced by the local culture.
Day 3: Day Trip to the Space Center in Kourou
Take a day trip to Kourou, about an hour’s drive from Cayenne. This town is famous for the Guiana Space Center, where European Space Agency rockets are launched. You can book a guided tour to explore the facility, and if you’re lucky, you might even witness a rocket launch!
The nearby Museum of Space also provides additional insight into rocket science and space exploration. The interactive exhibits make it a fun stop for travelers of all ages.
On your way back to Cayenne, stop by the beach in Kourou for a quick dip. The golden sand and calm waters are a perfect way to relax before heading back to the city.
Travel Tip
Remember to book your space center tour in advance. They fill up quickly, especially during launch windows.
Day 4: Explore the Nature of Cacao Village
Today, you’ll experience more of French Guiana’s blend of cultures by visiting Cacao, a small Hmong village about an hour and a half from Cayenne. The Hmong community was resettled from Laos and Thailand in the 1970s, and their influence is still very present in the village.

On Sundays, the village has a bustling market filled with handicrafts, fresh produce, and homemade food. During the rest of the week, the village is quieter, but still worth a visit for its unique vibe.
If you enjoy hiking, check out the nearby Piste de St-Élie trail. It’s a beautiful spot to get deeper into French Guiana’s rainforest. Take a picnic and enjoy the flora and fauna around you.
Where to Eat
While in Cacao, try traditional Hmong food. Cafés and small eateries serve up delicious dishes like papaya salad, spring rolls, and noodle soups.
Day 5: Sail to Iles du Salut (Devil’s Island)
Today, take a boat trip to the Iles du Salut, also known as the Salvation Islands. These islands are famous for their once-notorious prison—especially Devil’s Island, where the French sent political prisoners, including Captain Alfred Dreyfus.

Start your visit at Île Royale, the largest of the three islands. You can walk through the remaining prison buildings and see where the prisoners lived. The beauty of the islands contrasts with their dark history, making for a powerful experience.
The lush jungle has overtaken most of the structures, adding to the island’s eerie yet serene atmosphere. If time permits, swing over to Île St-Joseph, the closest island, before returning to the mainland in the late afternoon.
Getting There
Boat tours leave Kourou in the morning and sail back in the late afternoon. Most tours include lunch and guided tours of the prison facilities.

Day 6: Kaw Marshes Wildlife Adventure
Nature lovers shouldn’t skip the Kaw Marshes, an incredible wetland area located about two hours east of Cayenne. Home to diverse wildlife like caimans, birds, and even jaguars (though these are very elusive), the marshes offer a chance to get up close with French Guiana’s ecosystems.
You can take a boat tour through the marshes or opt for a night excursion to spot nocturnal wildlife. Either way, it’s a thrilling experience that gives a taste of French Guiana’s wild side.
Tip for Wildlife Viewing
Bring binoculars and wear long sleeves and pants to avoid mosquito bites during the marsh tour. Even though you’re on the water, you’ll want protection from the bugs.
Day 7: Relax in Montjoly & Farewell
For your last day, keep things relaxed in the neighboring area of Montjoly. Head to Remire-Montjoly Beach, just a short drive from Cayenne. It’s a quiet beach where you can enjoy the Atlantic coast, perhaps even spotting some leatherback turtles, depending on the season.
Walk along the wooden boardwalk and take in the peaceful scenery. If you’re up for one final exploration, visit the sentier des Salines, a nature trail that runs through mangroves and is perfect for some light hiking.
End your day with a leisurely dinner back in Cayenne. Le Maroni is a good pick for local food with a fine dining twist before heading back to your hotel.
Final Notes
Your trip through French Guiana will give you a balanced mix of culture, history, and nature. Travel times between various points make this itinerary relaxed but engaging, giving you plenty of space to enjoy the experience without being overwhelmed.
I recommend a flexible approach: if certain adventures speak to you more, feel free to adjust time accordingly.
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