French Guiana 2 Day Itinerary

French Guiana 2-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Style)

Day 1: Exploring Cayenne & Surroundings

Morning:

  1. **Arrival at Rochambeau Airport - Upon your arrival, get familiarized with the city and grab a hearty French breakfast at a local café.
  2. Marché de Cayenne - Visit the bustling local market to immerse yourself in the vibrant Guianan culture. Here you can find various fruits, vegetables, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  3. Fort-de-France - A historical fort built by the French in the 17th century overlooking Cayenne. The fort offers a panoramic view of the city and is home to the Musée de Guyane, showcasing local history and culture.

Afternoon:

  1. Parc zoologique et botanique de Cayenne - A unique park featuring a mix of exotic animals from French Guiana and various plants from around the world.
  2. Réserve d’Oyapock - Take a short drive to this nature reserve that borders Brazil and Suriname, offering scenic hiking trails and opportunities to spot capuchin monkeys and other wildlife.

Evening:

  1. Place des Palmistes - This lively square in downtown Cayenne is an excellent place for a casual dinner at one of the many restaurants serving Creole cuisine. Don’t forget to try some local dishes like Gombo or Cassouèti.
  2. Le Rocher du Diamant - Visit this iconic landmark in Cayenne, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset and take some amazing photos.

Day 2: Space Center & Amazonian Exploration

Morning:

  1. Centre Spatial Guyanaise (CSG) - Visit the Guiana Space Centre, home to Europe’s space launch facilities. Book a guided tour to learn about the history and importance of this spaceport.
  2. Parc Amazonien de Kaw - Travel approximately 3 hours from Cayenne to this incredible rainforest park. Embark on a boat tour along the Maroni River, where you can spot various animals such as caimans, pink dolphins, and numerous bird species.

Afternoon:

  1. Petit-Saut Falls - After your boat tour, visit these breathtaking waterfalls located within the park. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pools or simply admire their beauty from a safe distance.
  2. Return to Cayenne - Make your way back to Cayenne and enjoy a late lunch at a local restaurant.

Evening:

  1. Stroll along Boulevard de la Liberté - End your day with a leisurely stroll along this beautiful promenade by the river, offering panoramic views of Cayenne and the Suriname River.
  2. Farewell Dinner - Choose from one of the many restaurants in Cayenne for a farewell dinner before retiring to your accommodation.

Things to Note:

  • French Guiana uses the Euro as its currency, and most places accept credit cards. However, it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • The official language is French, so learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.
  • Visa Requirements - EU citizens, US citizens, Canadians, Australians, and UK citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Check the French embassy website for the most current information on visa requirements.
  • Transportation - Renting a car is an excellent way to explore French Guiana, but driving can be challenging due to poor road conditions in some areas. Alternatively, consider booking tours with local operators or using public transportation like taxis and buses.

Enjoy your trip to French Guiana!