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.

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French Guiana: when to go?

In Guyana, the equatorial climate promises you warmth and humidity all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 31°C. The region enjoys beautiful sunshine, ideal for exploring its lush nature and majestic rivers! The rainy season, from December to July, offers a unique spectacle with refreshing showers that make the tropical forest come alive. During the dry season, from July to November, enjoy sunny days perfect for adventure and discovery.

Activity ideas

  • Sea Turtle Watching - Experience the unique thrill of watching sea turtles lay their eggs on the wild beaches of Guyana.
  • Adventure on the Maroni River - Set out to discover authentic villages and explore the rich culture of the Maroni River on an unforgettable excursion.
  • Discovering Amerindian Communities - Immerse yourself in Amerindian traditions by sharing unique moments in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
  • Exploring the Kaw Marshes Nature Reserve - Set off in a canoe at sunrise and admire the magic of the Kaw marshes, a haven for spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Discovery of the Space Center - Immerse yourself in the space adventure by visiting the Guiana Space Centre, where rockets and scientific discoveries make for a fascinating experience.
  • Authentic Flavors of Creole Cuisine - Let yourself be tempted by a culinary journey where spices, exotic fruits, and fresh fish combine to reveal all the authenticity of French Guiana.
  • Amazon Rainforest Walking Tour - Walk along the secret trails of the Amazon rainforest and discover a fascinating biodiversity, among majestic trees and the songs of tropical birds.
  • Discovery of Authentic Creole Villages - Set off to discover Creole villages, where the warm welcome and colorful crafts immerse you in a living culture, among traditional houses and local flavors.

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!