Tourist attractions

Guiana Space Centre (CSG)

Region: Kourou

Modern Technology/Science

Europe''s major rocket launch site. Tours guide launch pads and control rooms

Devil''s Island (Île du Diable)

Region: Off Cayenne

Historical Heritage

Former penal colony island. Prison ruins and natural scenery enjoyed simultaneously

Maroni River Cruise

Region: Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

Nature

Canoe down border''s major river visiting jungle and villages

Cayenne Old Town

Region: Cayenne

Cultural Heritage

Area with colonial-era wooden buildings and markets

Les Hattes-Yalimapo Nature Reserve

Region: Régina

Nature

Coastal sand dune zone famous as leatherback turtle nesting site

Saül Rainforest Trail

Region: Saül

Nature

Multi-day jungle trekking course traversing virgin forest

Mont Saint-Martin Viewpoint

Region: Cayenne

Nature

Hill overlooking city and Atlantic. Beautiful sunset

Kaw Wetlands Bird Observatory

Region: West Kourou

Nature

Mangrove wetland where migratory birds and caimans observed up close

Awala Craft Market

Region: Awala

Cultural Experience

Can purchase indigenous Palikur tribe baskets and beadwork

Oyapock Bridge

Region: Saint-Georges

Modern Architecture

Cable-stayed bridge connecting France and Brazil, 378m total length

Suggested itineraries

3-Day Cayenne & Space Centre Introduction

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Cayenne Old Town, Central Market, Guiana Space Centre, Kaw Wetlands

Short-term model combining city tour with Kourou space center visit

5-Day Ecotourism and Indigenous Culture Experience

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Maroni River Cruise, Saint-Laurent Penal History, Wayana Village Homestay, Saül Rainforest Trek

Adventure course entering deep interior touching jungle and indigenous life

7-Day Full Regional Tour Rocket Launch Viewing

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: CSG Rocket Launch, Devil''s Island, Oyapock Bridge, Carnival Parade

Greedy plan touring festivals and coastal reserves timed with launch schedule

Travel tips

  • Rain gear essential. Squalls occur suddenly year-round
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required upon entry
  • Long-distance travel convenient by taxi-collectif (shared bus)
  • Bring high-concentration DEET insect repellent for mosquito-borne disease prevention
  • French mainland health insurance Carte Vitale usable
  • Space center tours require advance online booking
  • Credit cards mainly Visa and Master, American Express rare
  • Security generally safe avoiding nighttime solo activities in major cities
  • Many stores in indigenous communities cash-only
  • Bottled water safer than drinking water