If you’re planning a trip to French Guiana, having a good handle on transportation will make your stay much smoother. Public transport is limited but there are still a couple of options to get around. Renting a car is also popular among travelers who want more freedom to explore. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about transportation and car rentals in French Guiana, including buses, taxis, and driving conditions.
Public Transportation
Buses in French Guiana
The main form of public transportation in French Guiana is the bus. There are bus routes that connect most of the towns, and you’ll mainly find local buses operating between the bigger towns. However, services aren’t as frequent as you might expect. Buses generally run during the daytime, and evening services can be very limited or non-existent.
The most common bus service is the “TIG” (Transport Interurbain de la Guyane), and these connect main hubs like Cayenne, Kourou, and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. Routes typically operate on a fixed schedule, but delays can be common. Be prepared for long waits, particularly if you’re traveling in more rural areas.
Bus fares are relatively cheap, usually ranging from €2 to €10 depending on the route. However, don’t count on buses for cross-country trips, as they’re not the most reliable or frequent form of transport here.
Minibuses
In addition to regular buses, minibuses (called “taxi-brousse”) operate between certain towns as well. These are usually faster than scheduled buses but can be less comfortable. These shared taxis leave when full, so departure times are unpredictable.
Minibus trips are more common on key routes, for example, from Cayenne to Kourou. The cost is a bit higher than the regular bus fare, but it’s usually only by a margin. Expect to pay around €3 to €5 more, depending on the distance.
Tips for Bus Use
If you’re relying on buses to get around, plan your trips ahead of time and always double-check the schedule. The stops aren’t always well-marked, and bus drivers don’t speak much English. It helps to know some basic French phrases and have your destination written down.
Taxis in French Guiana
Taxis are available in most town centers, and the larger cities will have taxi stands where you can easily find one. In Cayenne, you’ll see taxis near busy places like the airport or major hotels.
Cost of Taxis
Taxis here aren’t cheap. Fares start at around €5 for short distances and can go up much higher, depending on how far you’re going. If you’re planning a longer trip, like between two towns, the fare can reach over €50.
Many taxi drivers only accept cash, and it’s good to negotiate or confirm the rate before you start your journey. Always make sure the meter is running if you’re in the city or have a clear agreement on the price if you’re taking a longer trip outside of it.
Availability and Calling a Taxi
You can call a taxi in Cayenne, Kourou, and other major towns by phone, but it’s best to ask a local or at your accommodation for trusted numbers. Don’t expect taxi-hailing apps like Uber, as they don’t operate here.
If you’re staying somewhere quiet or rural, taxis might not be readily available, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that taxis are generally not on standby outside of normal business hours, which could make it tough to find a ride late at night.
Car Rentals in French Guiana
Renting a car in French Guiana is one of the best ways to get around if you want flexibility, especially since public transport is basic at best. Most rental companies are based in Cayenne or at the Cayenne Félix Eboué Airport.
How to Rent a Car
You can rent a car from international rental chains like Europcar and Hertz or from local providers. To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. Some rental companies may ask for an International Driving Permit, so it’s best to bring one just in case. The minimum age to rent a car is generally 21, but some agencies may charge a surcharge for drivers under 25.
Prices for car rentals vary depending on the vehicle type. A basic model typically starts at around €30 to €40 per day, while 4x4s or SUVs can go for €50 or more a day. You’ll also find that weekly rental rates offer better value for money.
Where to Drive
Most of French Guiana’s main highways are in decent condition, and you’ll be able to explore towns like Kourou, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, and the border regions. However, some areas in the interior can be harder to access without a high-clearance vehicle or 4×4 due to rougher roads.
Gas stations are mainly found in the cities, so fill your tank before heading into remote areas as it’s easy to run out of fuel in isolated spots. The main roads between major towns like Cayenne, Kourou, and Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni are well-paved, but off those routes, you might encounter more challenging terrain.
Driving Conditions
Driving in Cayenne and other major towns is fairly straightforward, though traffic can get busy during rush hours. Outside the cities, driving becomes easier, but be aware that some rural roads may have potholes or could be unpaved.
French Guiana follows right-hand traffic, much like mainland France. Road signs are in French, and speed limits are generally posted in kilometers, with standard limits being 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on open roads.
The police do check for speeding and drunk-driving violations, so follow the rules. French Guiana has strict alcohol limits for drivers, with the legal blood alcohol concentration being 0.05% (the same as France).
Rideshare Services
Unfortunately, as of now, ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft are not available in French Guiana. This leaves taxis and car rentals as the main forms of transport for visitors here.
Safety and Reliability
Public Transport Safety
Using buses and minibuses in French Guiana is generally safe, though they can get crowded during peak times. Always keep your belongings close, as pickpocketing can occur from time to time in busier areas.
Since public transport doesn’t operate as frequently as in larger countries, it’s safer to have a backup plan if you’re traveling later in the day. If you miss the last bus, taxis can become pricey, and walking back may not be safe in more remote or unfamiliar areas.
Driving Safety
For those renting a car, driving is overall safe, though some caution is needed in certain rural parts, especially after dark. Roads to more remote locations can become bumpy, and animals occasionally wander onto country roads, so be cautious when driving at night.
Always make sure your car has a spare tire, as roadside assistance can take a while to arrive, especially outside of the cities. Drive during daylight when exploring less-traveled areas, as some roads have poor visibility at night.
Cost Overview for Transport
Buses: €2 to €10 (depending on distance)
Taxis: €5 for short distances; €50+ for intercity rides
Car rental: €30 to €50 per day depending on the vehicle type
Gas: Similar to European gas prices (expect to pay around €1.50 to €1.70 per liter)
Final Tips for Getting Around French Guiana
If you’re staying in the cities or major towns, taxis and buses will probably be just fine. However, if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path or visit more rural sights, renting a car is by far the best option.
Always plan your transport ahead of time as buses are limited, and taxis can be expensive, especially for long distances. Whether you’re taking the bus or renting a car, having a bit of patience will go a long way when traveling around French Guiana!
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