FRENCH GUIANA

GENERAL INFORMATION
VIDEO COMPILATION
PHOTO GALLERY (Under Construction)

GENERAL INFORMATION

When overlanders think of South America, destinations like Brazil, Peru, and Argentina often come to mind. However, tucked away on the continent’s Far remote northeastern coast lies French Guiana, a fascinating destination that blends European culture with tropical wilderness. As an overseas department of France, French Guiana is part of the European Union, making it one of the most unique places in the world. With its rich biodiversity, multicultural heritage, and remarkable history, French Guiana offers overlanders an unique experience far from the usual tourist trails.

French Guiana borders Brazil to the east and south, Suriname to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. Although it is located in South America, it uses the euro as its official currency, French is the official language, and French laws and institutions govern the territory. The capital city, Cayenne, serves as the cultural and administrative heart of the region. You will find colorful colonial architecture, lively markets, charming cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the territory’s blend of European, African, Indigenous, Asian, and Caribbean influences.

One of French Guiana’s greatest attractions is its extraordinary natural environment. Nearly all of the territory is covered by pristine Amazon rainforest, making it one of the most densely forested regions in the world. Overlanders can explore protected parks, winding rivers, and untouched jungle teeming with wildlife. Monkeys, sloths, jaguars, giant river otters, colorful parrots, toucans, and countless butterfly species inhabit the forests, while sea turtles nest along the coastline during certain times of the year.

The Guiana Amazonian Park is one of the largest national parks in the European Union and offers overlanders the chance to experience one of the world’s most intact tropical ecosystems, and allow travelers to discover remote villages, learn about Indigenous cultures, and observe the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.

French Guiana is also world-famous for the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, Europe’s primary spaceport. Thanks to its location close to the equator, rockets launched from Kourou require less fuel, making it an ideal site for space missions. You can tour the facility, explore interactive exhibits, and, if fortunate enough to time their visit correctly, witness a rocket launch.

You should not miss the Îles du Salut, or Salvation Islands, located just off the coast. The islands are best known for Devil’s Island, the infamous French penal colony where political prisoners, were once held.

French Guiana is home to numerous ethnic communities, including Creoles, Indigenous peoples, Maroons, Europeans, Brazilians, Haitians, Hmong, Chinese, and other immigrant groups. This diversity is reflected in the region’s cuisine, music, festivals, and traditions.

French Guiana remains one of South America’s least-visited destinations, which adds to its charm. Its combination of French sophistication, Amazonian wilderness, rich cultural diversity, and remarkable scientific achievements creates a overlanding experience unlike anywhere else.

For overlanders seeking an authentic destination away from crowded tourist hotspots, French Guiana is a remarkable choice. Its unique identity as both a part of France and a gateway to the Amazon offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience two worlds in one unforgettable journey.

2. VIDEO COMPILATION

A. FRENCH GUIANA, SURINAM, GUYANA OVERLAND

B. FRENCH GUIANA OVERLAND

C. SOUTH AMERICA COMPILATION PART 1

D. SOUTH AMERICA COMPILATION PART 2 (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

4. PHOTO GALLERY (Under Construction)

For more details, blogs and pictures click here; https://www.doubledutchworldsafari.au/our-journey/americas/south-america/french-guyana/