Bordering Suriname and Brazil, French Guiana (or more correctly, Guiana) is an overseas department and region of France; and just like in France, there are best places to visit in French Guiana before you die. It is located on the northern South American coast, and thus has beautiful beaches – one of which is a turtle conservation site. Interestingly, it is part of the European Union and uses the Euro as its currency. The economy comes from the Guiana Space Centre, the European Space Agency’s near-equator launch site.
French Guiana is incredibly biodiverse, with everything from tropical rainforests to savannah plains. If natural beauty is your thing, then you won’t be short of places to visit in French Guiana that are safe and beautiful. There are vast, wondrous forests, beautiful beaches, and many small and charming towns to investigate. The cities offer all the usual, from museums and cultural heritage to bustling nightlife and carnivals. You can even camp in some of the jungle, if you speak to the right tour-guides.
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A region of France, French Guiana is governed by the French President and Prime Minister and sends two senators to the French Senate (it is also one of the largest European Union territories outside of Europe). As such, French Guiana is exceptionally politically stable and should be completely safe to visit. The climate is subtropical, offering beautiful weather all year around, but it is always wise to check local weather reports to make sure the weather is not due to be turbulent during your visit. You should also check local news before you travel, to make sure there are no potential upsets during your visit. And, as always, follow the instructions of local police, emergency services, and tour-guides (if you’re venturing into the jungle).
If you like jungles and rainforests, not to mention the sub-tropical temperatures, be sure to check out the best places to visit in Ecuador before you die. Until then, get ready to fuel your wanderlust and explore the best places to visit in French Guiana before you die.
7. Roura
Roura is a commune of French Guiana, meaning it is an overseas region and department of France. It has a beautiful river running through it, and waterfalls not too far. The architecture is not to be missed either.
6. Saint Laurent du Maroni
Another commune, located at the north-west border of French Guiana, is the country’s second most populous city. The main export of the area is rum, and at around 50% proof it’s not something to be trifled with! If you like forests, the city is a base for many eco-trails and camping opportunities.
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5. Cayenne
The capital of French Guiana, it lies on an ancient island at the mouth of the Cayenne river and the Atlantic coast. It is a very diverse city, with a roaring night-life and a world-famous yearly carnival, but also beautiful municipal buildings for when you want something a bit quieter.
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4.Cacao
Every weekend, Cacao comes alive. You can boat, canoe, or kayak up the Comte River, or visit markets in the town. You can also venture into the jungle with a tour-guide from the city.
3. Remire-Montjoly
A suburb of Cayenne in the southeast of the city, all import and export comes through the docks here. There is a stretch of beautiful beach, one of the best beaches in the Cayenne area, perfect for sunbathing and a spot of swimming.
2. Iracoubo
The main reason to visit this small town is the church, decorated by Pierre Huguet; it is as vast as it is stunning. Otherwise this charming town has the usual things to offer, from museums to shopping.
And, the best place to visit in French Guiana before you die is: Awala-Yalimapo
Close to the border with Suriname, Awala-Yalimapo is another commune in the north of French Guiana. The beach at Plage des Hattes is unrivalled, and is a turtle reserve, so if you’re into stunning beach vistas and conservation, it really is a must-visit.
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French Guiana is an exceptionally politically-stable and economically prosperous country, and you should not encounter any problems during your visit. However, always check local news and weather reports, only hire tour guides from agencies, use common sense and obey nautical flags when swimming at the beaches, and be careful of local wildlife and plants when venturing into the jungles and rainforests. Follow these tips, and you will find the best places to visit in French Guiana before you die.
