This isn’t your average South American getaway. French Guiana is a place where rocket ships share the skies with toucans, and dense rainforests hide both sloths and colonial ruins. It’s an overseas territory of France, but don’t expect croissants on every corner—expect creole rhythms, jungle trails, and one of the most fascinating cultural blends on the continent.

Here, you can kayak through mangroves in the morning and tour a space center in the afternoon. It’s a land of contrast, where European influence meets Amazonian energy, and everything feels just a little bit unexpected.

 

Why Go to French Guiana?

Because it offers something no other place does. You get the raw biodiversity of the Amazon, the sophistication of European governance, and a cultural mix that includes Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendant Maroons, Hmong communities, and descendants of colonial settlers—all living side by side.

You can walk through the old prison buildings on Îles du Salut, where political prisoners like Captain Dreyfus were once held. Then take a boat up the Maroni River to remote Maroon villages still preserving traditions of escape and resistance. Or head to Kourou, where the Guiana Space Centre regularly launches satellites into orbit.

It’s wild, remote, and rich with stories that go far beyond the guidebooks.

Must-See Attractions in French Guiana

Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands)

A group of three islands off the coast, once infamous as a brutal French penal colony. Now a mix of haunting ruins, coconut palms, and quiet wildlife.

Guiana Space Centre (Kourou)

A fully operational spaceport where Europe launches its rockets. Public tours available—and if you time it right, you might witness a launch.

Cayenne

The capital city blends French colonial buildings with colorful markets, creole cuisine, and street art. A good base to explore the coast.

Cacao Village

Founded by Hmong refugees from Laos. Visit on a Sunday for the bustling market with Southeast Asian and local Guianese foods.

Maroni River Expeditions

Take a pirogue boat deep into the jungle to meet Indigenous or Maroon communities along the border with Suriname.

Kaw Marshes

A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Spot caimans, herons, and maybe even a jaguar from floating lodges and eco-tours.

 

What to Eat in French Guiana

Bouillon d’Awara

A rich traditional stew made with the fruit of the awara palm, cooked for hours with smoked meats, fish, and vegetables. Served during Easter.

Colombo

A curry-style dish influenced by Indian and Caribbean cooking. Usually made with chicken or goat and plenty of spices.

Grilled Fish with Creole Sauce

Often freshly caught, served with rice and a punchy sauce of onions, tomato, lime, and chili.

Cassava Bread

Crispy flatbread made from grated manioc, a staple of Indigenous cuisine.

Riz Cantonais Guianais

A local take on fried rice, reflecting Asian influences from the Hmong and Chinese communities.

 

Essential Travel Tips for French Guiana

Best Time to Visit

Dry season runs from August to December, with clearer skies and easier access to remote areas.

January to July is wetter but lusher. Some roads and tours may be limited.

 

Money & Payments

• Currency: Euro (€), since it’s an overseas department of France.
• Cards: Widely accepted in cities and larger towns.
• Cash: Essential for markets, remote areas, and small restaurants.
• Tipping: Not expected, but appreciated in tourist areas.

 

Getting Around

• Rental cars are useful for exploring beyond Cayenne or Kourou.
• Buses and vans serve major routes but may run irregularly.
• Boats are the only way to reach certain villages or islands.

 

Staying Safe

• French Guiana is generally safe but take standard precautions in cities.
• In jungle areas, travel with guides and bring mosquito repellent.
• Vaccinations for yellow fever are required for entry.

 

Staying Connected in French Guiana

Wi-Fi is reliable in cities like Cayenne and Kourou, but in rural villages or during jungle trips, don’t expect much. Roaming can be costly depending on your provider—even if it’s technically “France.”

A local SIM card requires store visits and ID, and it may not work in more remote regions without preloaded credits.

JetSet eSIM makes things easier.

Activate your French Guiana JetSet eSIM before your trip and stay online from city markets to coastal hideaways. Whether you're navigating jungle trails, booking a space center tour, or sharing a photo from the Îles du Salut, JetSet eSIM keeps you connected without the hassle.

One trip, one connection—no matter how far you go.