Cayenne in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Cayenne
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- February is peak dry season with most rainfall concentrated in brief 30-45 minute afternoon downpours that provide cooling relief rather than disrupting plans
- Tourist crowds are 40% lower than December-January peak, making Marché de Cayenne and this destination much more navigable for photography and shopping
- Carnival season brings authentic Creole festivities with street parades, traditional music, and local food vendors offering seasonal specialties like boudin créole and kassav
- River conditions are optimal for pirogue tours up the Mahury River - water levels are stable at 2-3m (6-10 ft) depth with excellent wildlife visibility including caimans and sloths
Considerations
- Afternoon humidity peaks at 85-90% between 2-4pm, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable without proper hydration and frequent shade breaks
- French Guiana's limited tourism infrastructure means fewer daily flight connections and accommodation options compared to neighboring Caribbean islands
- Prices for accommodations increase 25-30% during Carnival season (late February) with minimum 3-night stays required at most hotels
Best Activities in February
Îles du Salut Historical Tours
February's stable weather conditions make the 1-hour boat crossing to Devil's Island comfortable with minimal seasickness risk. Morning departures at 8am avoid afternoon heat and provide optimal lighting for photographing the preserved prison buildings. February is ideal because the dry season ensures all walking paths on the islands remain accessible.
Amazon Rainforest Canopy Walks
February's lower rainfall makes jungle trails accessible while maintaining lush vegetation. Morning treks starting at 6am capitalize on cooler temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and peak wildlife activity. The 70% humidity level is manageable in early morning but becomes challenging after 10am.
Cayenne Market and Creole Cooking Classes
February coincides with peak availability of exotic fruits like corossol and fruit de la passion at Marché de Cayenne. Morning market tours followed by cooking classes take advantage of cooler temperatures and fresh daily catches from local fishermen. Afternoon showers provide natural breaks between market exploration and indoor cooking.
Kaw Nature Reserve Bird Watching
February is prime migratory bird season with over 300 species visible including scarlet ibis and jaguar sightings at dawn. The 2-hour drive to Kaw through rural French Guiana showcases traditional wooden Creole houses and provides cultural context missing from typical nature tours.
Space Center Kourou Technical Tours
February launch schedule typically includes Ariane rocket preparations visible during behind-the-scenes technical tours. Indoor museum sections provide air-conditioned relief during peak afternoon heat while outdoor launch pad viewing is comfortable in morning hours before 11am.
February Events & Festivals
Carnaval de Guyane
French Guiana's Carnival season peaks in late February with authentic Creole parades featuring traditional mas bands, steel drum orchestras, and elaborate costumes reflecting the territory's multicultural heritage. Unlike tourist-focused Caribbean carnivals, this celebration maintains strong local traditions with neighborhood groups competing in choreographed presentations.
Fête de la Mi-Carême
Mid-Carnival celebration where children and families participate in smaller neighborhood parades with homemade costumes. Local schools organize competitions and traditional foods like fricassee de lambi and punch planteur are served at community gatherings.