Guyana, land of biodiversity and adventure
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Explore the wild nature of Guyana.
A unique adventure in the heart of the French Amazon.
Must-see locations
Guyana: Discover a Lush and Pristine Nature
Covered mostly by tropical forest, French Guiana offers France its Amazon rich with exceptional biodiversity. The natural reserves and the zoo of French Guiana, the natural turtle nesting sites, and the majestic rivers are all expressions of remarkable wildlife and flora. With over 8 million hectares of forest, French Guiana is among the last green lungs of the planet. Traveling up a river by canoe to enter this preserved nature and encountering remote villages is an unforgettable experience.
This destination also evokes the penal colony of Cayenne (1852-1938) and its convicts, and, in another vein, the Guiana Space Center operational since 1968. Located in Kourou and Sinnamary, this French and European space launch center sees the departure of Ariane rockets as well as telecommunications satellites.
In Cayenne, beneath the ruins of Fort Cépérou (17th century), one can appreciate the colorful Creole houses and the vitality of the markets, shops, and cafes on Palm Square lined with palm trees. You won't want to miss a stop at Monjoly beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
A change of scenery with the discovery of the village of Cacao where you will appreciate the craftsmanship of the Asian Hmong community, who immigrated here in the 1970s, or even the Amerindian village Awala-Yalimapo, at the confluence of the Mana and Maroni rivers.
Tropical Exploration and Cultural Encounters
The French overseas department, Guyana, also known as French Guiana, is located on the northeast coast of South America, north of Brazil. This region is characterized by a unique geographical and cultural diversity. It is home to a dense tropical forest and a variety of ecosystems that are essential to global biodiversity. Guyana is also a place where different communities coexist, reflecting a rich cultural heritage influenced by diverse traditions and histories. It is a territory that offers numerous opportunities for exploration and discovery of nature and local cultures.
Exploration of Unique Biodiversity
Guyana is a prime destination to admire the richness of animal and plant species. At sunset, comfortably settled in a hammock, the muffled sounds of the forest, which is never far away, constantly remind you that animals are the main inhabitants of the region. Although their audible presence is undeniable, like that of howler monkeys, they mostly remain very difficult to spot visually. However, the chances of seeing squirrel monkeys, ibises, turtles, caimans, or even dolphins are relatively high.
Discoveries of new species are constant, making it a little paradise for entomologists and other specialists. Even amateurs can get swept away by the magic of the colors, shapes, and sizes of these insects, mammals, or birds and the learning about unique species. From the traveler's tree to orchids, including mangroves or the impressive ceiba trees, everything is a visual and olfactory delight.
A Fascinating Cultural Mosaic
Brought over time by various waves of immigration, peoples from the five continents coexist in Guyana. Alongside the Amerindians, the indigenous population, all these communities illustrate a Guyana with a thousand faces. Lifestyles, cuisines, festivals, and traditions blend harmoniously. The mixing of all these languages and cultures gives the country a richness that a curious but respectful visitor will appreciate at its true value.
An Original Carnival Experience
This carnival, one of the longest there is, sometimes lasts up to two months, during which the majority of Guianese people are in high spirits. On Sundays, the street parades bring together "bands" to the sound of percussion, who compete in creativity with their costumes. The many carnival characters evolve over the years while maintaining their symbolism. In the electrified atmosphere of Saturday night dances (or universities), where the touloulous reign supreme over their partners, everyone is swept away by the frenetic rhythms provided by the carnival orchestras.
The Adventure at the End of the Roads: Discovering Guyana
Crossing a rapid in a canoe is a magnificent experience during the dry season. The thrills are guaranteed and safe thanks to the skill of the canoeists and takarists. It is also possible to explore a trail, or path, opened in the middle of the forest by mountain bike or simply on foot. This path is dotted with creeks, majestic trees, and surprising sounds. The first night spent in a carbet, around the fire where fish is grilled, is unforgettable. After spending a few moments finding the right position, sleep comes quickly in a hammock. Then comes the awakening, at the same time as the sun piercing through the thick morning mist. It's a new day of adventures that begins!
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