French Guiana-6-day-itinerary

French Guiana Travel Itinerary (6 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Cayenne

Places to Go:

  • Arrival at Félix Éboué Airport: Your gateway into French Guiana.
  • Cayenne City Tour: Explore the capital city, including its colonial architecture and vibrant markets.

Activities:

  • Market Visit: Experience local culture and buy some souvenirs or snacks.
  • Local Cuisine: Try traditional Guyanese dishes like poulet à la moambé (chicken in peanut sauce) or cari de manioc (manioc stew).

Things to Know:

  • Weather: French Guiana has a tropical climate; be prepared for heat and humidity.
  • Language: French is the official language, but English may not be widely spoken.

Day 2: Cayenne to Kourou

Places to Go:

  • Cayenne Market: Visit again for different vendors or simply enjoy your breakfast.
  • Espace Guayanais Museum: Learn about the history and culture of French Guiana.
  • Kourou Space Centre: Witness rocket launches (if scheduled) or see the launch pads up close.

Activities:

  • Space Centre Tour: Get insights into space research and exploration.
  • Launch Pad Visit: If there are no upcoming launches, you can still see the facilities.

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: Use public transport, taxis, or rent a car to travel between towns.
  • Currency: Euro is the official currency in French Guiana.

Day 3: Kourou to Saint-Laurent du Maroni

Places to Go:

  • Maripasoula: Explore the indigenous villages and learn about their culture.
  • Saint-Laurent du Maroni Market: Enjoy local delicacies and browse through shops selling traditional handicrafts.
  • Cacao Plantation Visit: Learn about cacao production, from tree to chocolate.

Activities:

  • Indigenous Village Tour: Interact with the indigenous people and learn about their traditions.
  • Cacao Tasting: Sample different types of chocolates made on site.

Things to Know:

  • Safety: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Day 4: Saint-Laurent du Maroni

Places to Go:

  • Amazonian Reserve: Explore the protected area of the Amazon rainforest within French Guiana.
  • French Guiana Wildlife: Spot a variety of wildlife that is unique to this region.

Activities:

  • Hike in the Amazon Rainforest: This is an excellent opportunity for nature lovers and those who enjoy hiking.
  • Wildlife Watching: Observe birds, monkeys, and other animals native to French Guiana’s rainforests.

Things to Know:

  • Health and Safety: Be sure you’re vaccinated against diseases like malaria or yellow fever, which are present in the region.