Things to Do in Cayenne

About Cayenne

Where the Amazon rainforest meets the Atlantic and French sophistication blends with Creole soul, Cayenne defies every expectation of what "France" means. This vibrant capital of French Guiana pulses with an energy found nowhere else in South America—a place where European infrastructure supports Caribbean rhythm, and space rockets launch from equatorial jungles. Here, adventure isn't just promised; it's woven into the very fabric of daily life.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Payments: As an overseas department of France, Cayenne uses the Euro and prices are significantly higher than mainland France due to import costs, so budget accordingly and bring sufficient funds as ATMs can be sparse outside the city center.

• Health Precautions: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry and antimalarial medication is strongly recommended year-round, as Cayenne is located in a tropical region with active mosquito-borne diseases.

• Language: While French is the official language, learning a few basic Creole phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals, as many residents speak Guianese Creole in daily life and English is rarely spoken outside tourist areas.

• Transportation: Taxis don't use meters in Cayenne, so always negotiate and agree on the fare before departing; alternatively, rent a car to explore beyond the city as public transportation options are very limited throughout French Guiana.

When to Visit

Cayenne, French Guiana's capital, experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: plan your visit during the dry season from August to December when temperatures hover around 27-30°C (80-86°F) and rainfall drops significantly, making it ideal for exploring the colorful Creole markets and nearby coastal areas, though humidity remains consistently high at 80-85% year-round. The wettest months from April to July bring torrential downpours with some areas receiving 400-500mm of rainfall monthly, which can severely limit outdoor activities like visits to the Îles du Salut or nature excursions, though this is when you'll find the cheapest accommodation rates and smallest crowds. Carnival season in February and March offers a spectacular cultural experience with vibrant parades, traditional costumes, and street parties that rival Caribbean celebrations, but expect intense heat (30-32°C), occasional heavy showers, and significantly higher hotel prices during this peak period. For wildlife enthusiasts, visit between April and August when sea turtles nest on beaches like Plage des Hattes and Awala-Yalimapo, though you'll need to tolerate the wet conditions and bring serious rain gear. Budget travelers should target September through November, when the dry season begins but tourist numbers remain low, offering moderate prices, manageable weather, and excellent opportunities to experience local life at the central market on Place des Palmistes without fighting through crowds.