French Guiana

Types of trips: Adventure, Historical, Geographical, Nature

Best known for: European Space Agency's launch site, Plant and Animal diversity, Old prison camps

Why Go?: French Guiana is a country with an interesting formation and an even more interesting culture - with a blend of left over colonisation, hot and humid rainforests and French influences, it's a beautifully strange but wonderful destination that people of all ages will enjoy!

Fact File

Population: 250,000

Capital: Cayenne

Language(s): French

Ties to the UK?: France has a good political relationship with the UK

Landscape: French Guiana is flattest nearest the coast, and develops into thick rainforest as you progress south and reach the mountains on the Brazilian border. 

Climate/Seasons: Temperatures are fairly consistently warm throughout the year in French Guiana, but there are distinct wet and dry seasons, with the wettest weather between January and June and peaking in May. The driest time is September and October, but generally August - November should be quite pleasant.

When to Go: The best weather and therefore best time to visit will be in the latter half of the year, as that is when rainfall is least likely. 

Reasons to Visit: Rainforests, foreign culture

How to Get There: There is only one international airport in French Guiana, but it serves the capital city Cayenne and has good links to other towns and cities.  

Places to Go: Centre Spatial Guyanais, Musee Departemental, Camp de la Transportation

Famous People: Rodolphe Alexandre

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Tresor & Kaw Nature Reserves, Fleuve de Maroni

History: Some debate between the French and the Portuguese over control, but has been officially under French control since 1814.

Architecture: Fort Ceperou

Culture: Heavily French influences, but also elements of African and American in local culture.

Sport: Football, Rugby

Events: Jan - Feb Carnival celebrations, All Souls Day National Holiday

Watch Out For: Tropical storms can occur in the wet season - make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecasts and be aware of safety procedures!

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised - see here for a good general overview but always consult with a doctor.