Oyapock and Maroni River straddle the edges of French Guiana, which is a French territory in South America. The entire area is an overload of natural beauty. Dense green forests cover the landscape, while fresh streams wind through the woods.

Things To Do In French Guiana

This tropical delight was not always the beautiful scenic place it is now. Interestingly, French Guiana operated many gruesome prisons in the past. Now you will only see vibrant cities like Cayenne, Saint-Laurent, and Kourou.

The wide range of geographical features makes the nation ideal for adventurous activities. Plus, the gorgeous coastline is the perfect place to find sandy beaches. Whereas, the small rolling hills are worth a hike.

Taking a ride to the Salvation Islands will bring you face to face with the history of long-forgotten prisoners. After an intriguing visit to the prisons, a beach day at Remire-Montjoly is a relaxing and welcome change. The age old turtles come and lay eggs in the beach sands, which is a sight to behold.

Local Cuisine

If you go to a hotel in French Guiana, do not forget to order something less spicy. Traditional dishes here are delicious but usually extra spicey. Try some smoked meat or fish, which is the specialty here.

Getting Around

Cayenne is home to the Cayenne – Rochambeau Airport which has international flights from Miami. An epic way to enter French Guiana is to take the Oyapock Bridge which spans over the Oyapock River. You can walk on it or take a car over the 385 m long bridge. However, boats are an uncommon way of getting to the country.

However, boats (pirogue) are widely used means of transport within French Guiana. Also, minibusses can take you anywhere within towns. Prices of mini-buses are affordable whereas taxis are downright expensive.

Car rental service is available at the airport or in Cayenne, Kourou and St Laurent, from international and local firms. Taxis are available in Cayenne. Also, they can pick you up from the Laussat Canal and from the airport. 

Language

You cannot get around without interacting with the locals in French. Consequently, you ought to have an explicit knowledge of French if you are going to take a trip here. Furthermore, few speak Portuguese here.

Currency

Euro is the official currency here. The currency exchange is available at bureaus de change at Rochambeau airport and in Cayenne. Keep in mind that Saturday is a day off for these exchange facilities.

All major international credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are available in Cayenne, Ile de Cayenne, Kourou, and Saint Laurent du Maroni.

Electricity & Plug Type

Although it is a French territory, here they use electric sockets of type D, so bring an adapter, even if you are coming from Europe. The standard voltage is 220V.

December 10, 2016 11:51 am Published by Staff Writer