Cayenne in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Cayenne
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect dry season weather with minimal rainfall - only 10 rainy days versus 20+ in wet months, making outdoor exploration and jungle excursions highly reliable
- Optimal wildlife viewing as animals concentrate near water sources during drier conditions - increased chances of spotting jaguars, caimans, and rare bird species in Guiana Amazonian Park
- Sea turtle nesting season peaks along Awala-Yalimapo beaches - witness thousands of leatherback turtles laying eggs during organized night tours (booking essential)
- Launch season for Ariane rockets from nearby Kourou - August typically sees 2-3 launches with clear viewing conditions and special visitor programs at Guiana Space Centre
Considerations
- High tourist season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% above low season - book minimum 6 weeks ahead to secure reasonable rates
- Intense equatorial sun with UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and limits midday outdoor activities to 2-3 hours maximum
- Persistent humidity at 70% makes physical activities more demanding - plan jungle treks for early morning (6-9 AM) to avoid afternoon heat exhaustion
Best Activities in August
Guiana Amazonian Park Jungle Expeditions
August's dry conditions create optimal access to remote sections of Europe's largest national park. Wildlife concentrates near remaining water sources, dramatically increasing spotting opportunities for jaguars, giant otters, and 700+ bird species. Reduced river levels reveal hidden beaches and make canoe navigation safer for multi-day expeditions.
Awala-Yalimapo Sea Turtle Watching
Peak leatherback turtle nesting season occurs exclusively during August nights. These 500kg giants emerge between 9 PM-2 AM to lay eggs on protected beaches. August offers the highest nesting density with up to 40 turtles per night - an experience impossible to replicate elsewhere or at other times.
Kourou Space Centre Rocket Launch Viewing
August launch window typically features 2-3 Ariane rocket launches with optimal clear-sky viewing conditions. The dry season eliminates weather delays common in wet months. VIP viewing areas offer unobstructed views of launches visible for 400 km (248 miles) along the coast.
Îles du Salut Historical Prison Tours
August's calmer seas provide reliable boat access to Devil's Island and the infamous penal colony. Lower humidity makes exploring the prison ruins and museums more comfortable than wet season visits. Clear skies offer dramatic photography opportunities of the restored colonial architecture.
Cayenne City Cultural Walking Tours
August's lower rainfall allows extended exploration of Cayenne's Creole architecture and multicultural markets without weather interruptions. The dry season coincides with increased cultural activities and extended market hours. Comfortable morning temperatures 22-26°C (72-79°F) ideal for 3-4 hour walking tours.
Kaw Wetlands Bird Watching Expeditions
Dry season concentrates water birds in smaller wetland areas, creating exceptional viewing density. August offers optimal conditions for spotting scarlet ibis, jabiru storks, and Guiana cock-of-the-rock. Reduced mosquito populations compared to wet season make full-day expeditions more comfortable.
August Events & Festivals
Festival International du Film de Guyane
Annual film festival showcasing Caribbean and South American cinema with outdoor screenings in Cayenne's historic squares. Features indigenous filmmaker workshops and cultural performances between screenings.
Marché de Nuit Créole
Extended evening markets throughout August featuring traditional Creole cuisine, local crafts, and live music. Night markets run later during dry season with vendors staying until midnight rather than typical 9 PM closing.