Located on the northeastern coast of South America, French Guiana is an overseas region of France that boasts a unique mix of natural beauty, colonial history, and fascinating cultural experiences. From the dense Amazon rainforest to historic penal colonies, French Guiana offers a rich and diverse set of attractions for travelers seeking adventure, history, or nature. While it's lesser-known than some other South American destinations, French Guiana’s blend of French culture with South American heritage and pristine landscapes make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

Here are some of the top attractions in French Guiana:

1. Îles du Salut (Salvations Islands)

One of the most famous landmarks of French Guiana is the Îles du Salut, a group of three islands off the coast, about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the city of Kourou. The islands are home to the Îles du Salut Prison, a notorious penal colony that housed French prisoners, including political prisoners, from the mid-19th century until the 1950s. The most famous of these islands is Île Royale, where visitors can tour the prison and learn about the grim history of the French penal system. The islands are also known for their stunning natural beauty, featuring lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife, including sea turtles and vibrant birdlife.

Visitors can take a boat tour from Kourou to reach the islands and spend the day exploring the old prison buildings, enjoying the beaches, and hiking the nature trails that lead through the island's tropical vegetation.

2. Kourou and the Guiana Space Centre

Located on the coast, Kourou is the launch site for the European Space Agency’s Guiana Space Centre (Centre Spatial Guyanais). The spaceport is one of the most important in the world and is used for launching both commercial and scientific satellites into space. The Guiana Space Centre offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the space agency’s history and missions, as well as see the impressive launchpads, the mission control center, and the Ariane rocket. If you're in the area during a rocket launch, you can even witness one of these spectacular events, though they are dependent on the launch schedule.

The town of Kourou itself is charming and offers a nice mix of local culture, including French Guianese cuisine and colorful markets.

3. Tumuc-Humac Mountains

For those interested in adventure and hiking, the Tumuc-Humac Mountains in the interior of French Guiana are a breathtaking destination. Located in the southern part of the region, these mountains are part of the Tumuc-Humac Mountains National Park, a vast wilderness area that borders Brazil. The park is one of the least explored regions in French Guiana and is home to incredible biodiversity, with dense rainforests, wildlife, and remote rivers.

The Tumuc-Humac Mountains offer various opportunities for eco-tourism, including hiking, wildlife watching, and visiting remote indigenous villages. The mountains are also home to the Maroni River, which is a key part of the park’s ecosystem, and offers opportunities for boat tours through the dense rainforest.

4. Maripasoula

Located along the Maroni River, Maripasoula is one of the most remote towns in French Guiana and provides an authentic experience of the region’s interior. The town is only accessible by boat or small aircraft, and it’s known for its cultural significance to the region's indigenous peoples, such as the Wayana and Teko tribes. In Maripasoula, visitors can learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the indigenous communities, see traditional wooden houses, and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature.

The town also serves as a gateway for excursions into the Tumuc-Humac Mountains and other remote areas, where travelers can hike, spot wildlife, and enjoy the beauty of the untouched rainforests.

5. Guiana Amazonian Park

The Guiana Amazonian Park (Parc amazonien de Guyane) is the largest national park in France and one of the largest protected areas in the world, covering nearly 35,000 square kilometers of the Amazon rainforest. The park is located in the western part of French Guiana, near the border with Brazil, and is a haven for biodiversity. It’s home to a wide variety of animals, including jaguars, giant river otters, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. The park is also home to diverse plant life, many of which are unique to the Amazonian region.

For nature lovers, the Guiana Amazonian Park offers opportunities for eco-tourism, including hiking, river cruises, and wildlife viewing. There are also eco-lodges in the park where visitors can stay overnight and experience the wonders of the rainforest up close.

6. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a historic town located on the banks of the Maroni River, near the border with Suriname. It is famous for its role in French Guiana’s penal history, as it served as the administrative center for the French penal colonies. Visitors can tour the Camp de la Transportation, a former prison camp that housed political and common criminals sent to the region during the 19th and 20th centuries. The prison was notorious for its harsh conditions, and many prisoners never survived the journey.

The town also features a vibrant cultural scene, with local markets, festivals, and a variety of French Guianese food. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including nearby islands and nature reserves.

7. Cayenne

The capital city of French Guiana, Cayenne, offers a blend of French culture and Creole influences. The city is known for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and proximity to beautiful beaches and forests. Highlights in Cayenne include the Cayenne Market, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local crafts, and the Place des Palmistes, a central square surrounded by colonial buildings.

Visitors can also explore the Cayenne Museum, which provides insight into the region’s history, including its indigenous cultures, French colonial past, and the history of the penal system. For nature lovers, the Îles du Salut are a short boat ride away, providing a fascinating and scenic day trip from the city.

8. Devil's Island (Île du Diable)

Devil's Island is the most infamous of the Îles du Salut group. Once a place of exile for political prisoners from France, it became notorious for the brutal conditions and the suffering of its inmates. Today, the island is a hauntingly beautiful and historically significant destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the former prison, including the infamous cell of Henri Charrière, whose memoir "Papillon" detailed his years of imprisonment on the island.

The island’s eerie atmosphere is contrasted by its stunning natural beauty—lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. While the dark history of the island is compelling, it’s also a peaceful retreat for those interested in its history and dramatic views.

9. Salvation River (Rivière Salée)

Located near the coast, the Salvation River (Rivière Salée) is an important natural site, offering a unique blend of mangroves, tropical landscapes, and wildlife. The river is accessible by boat, and tours often explore the saltwater habitats that are home to many species of birds, fish, and reptiles. The surrounding area offers hiking and kayaking opportunities, and visitors can learn about the role of the river in the region’s ecosystem.

The area is also known for the Maré-aux-Ssables, a protected site that preserves the delicate mangrove ecosystem.

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Conclusion

French Guiana is an intriguing destination for those seeking adventure, history, and natural beauty. From the mysterious Îles du Salut and Devil's Island to the lush wilderness of the Guiana Amazonian Park and the Tumuc-Humac Mountains, there’s something for everyone in this French territory. Whether you're exploring historical sites, venturing into pristine rainforests, or discovering local cultures, French Guiana offers an unforgettable experience. Its wild landscapes, rich history, and unique position as both a French region and a South American destination make it a fascinating place to visit.