Cayenne in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Cayenne

29°C (84°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

399 mm (15.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect escape from Northern Hemisphere winter - consistent 29°C (84°F) highs with cooling afternoon showers that clear quickly
January marks peak green season when the rainforest canopy is lushest and wildlife most active - ideal for jungle excursions and bird watching
River levels are optimal for boat trips to Devil's Island and interior villages - December rains fill waterways without creating dangerous currents
January's 70% humidity is the lowest of wet season months, making outdoor exploration more comfortable than February-April peak humidity

Considerations

10 rainy days means afternoon downpours can disrupt outdoor plans - showers typically last 45-90 minutes between 2-5pm
Muddy trails in rainforest areas require waterproof boots and can make some hiking routes temporarily inaccessible
High UV index of 8 combined with equatorial sun means sunburn happens in 15-20 minutes without proper protection

Best Activities in January

Guiana Space Centre Tours

January offers ideal weather for the 3-hour outdoor facility tours with morning temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and minimal afternoon rain impact. The space center's launch schedule is typically active in early 2025, adding excitement to visits. Morning tours avoid the 2-5pm shower window entirely.

Booking Tip: Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead through official channels as group sizes are limited to 25 people. Tours cost €15-25 and require valid ID. Book morning slots (9am or 10:30am starts) to avoid afternoon weather. See current availability in booking section below.

Îles du Salut Ferry Excursions

January's calmer seas and optimal river levels make the 1-hour ferry ride to Devil's Island most comfortable. Morning departures at 8am take advantage of clearer skies before afternoon clouds build. The historic prison ruins are fascinating in cooler morning temperatures, and return trips typically beat afternoon showers.

Booking Tip: Book ferry tickets 10-14 days ahead as January sees increased local tourism. Round-trip costs €45-60 including island access. Morning departures strongly recommended - afternoon trips risk weather delays. Check current schedules in booking section below.

Amazonian Rainforest Canopy Walks

January's lush canopy and active wildlife make forest walks spectacular, but muddy conditions require proper preparation. Morning walks (7-10am) offer coolest temperatures and best bird activity. The 399mm (15.7 inches) monthly rainfall keeps streams flowing and creates dramatic waterfalls.

Booking Tip: Book guided walks through licensed eco-operators 1-2 weeks ahead. Half-day tours cost €35-55 including equipment. Essential: waterproof boots (often provided), rain gear, and insect protection. See current forest tour options in booking section below.

Cayenne Market and Food Walking Tours

January brings peak season for tropical fruits and fresh fish at Marché de Cayenne. Morning market tours (7-10am) avoid afternoon heat and showcase local specialties like accras de morue and bouillon d'awara. The covered market structure provides shelter during brief shower periods.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost €25-40 for 3-4 hour experiences including tastings. Book 5-7 days ahead with operators who include market vendors and restaurant stops. Morning tours recommended for freshest selections. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

Cacao River Boat Expeditions

January's elevated water levels allow boats to access remote indigenous villages and wildlife viewing areas impossible during dry season. River temperatures are perfect for swimming stops, and afternoon showers create dramatic sky photography opportunities. Wildlife is most active during cooler morning hours.

Booking Tip: Multi-day river expeditions cost €120-200 per day including meals and hammock accommodation. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for January departures. Single-day trips available for €60-90. Essential: waterproof bags for electronics. See current river tour availability in booking section below.

Plage de Rémire-Montjoly Beach Activities

January's morning beach conditions are ideal with gentle waves and 26°C (79°F) water temperatures. Afternoon showers typically clear by 5pm, creating spectacular sunset viewing. Sea turtle nesting season continues through January on this protected beach with guided evening walks available.

Booking Tip: Turtle watching tours cost €20-30 for evening experiences (7-10pm). No advance booking needed for beach access, but turtle tours should be reserved 3-5 days ahead. Evening activities avoid afternoon weather entirely. Current turtle tour options in booking section below.

January Events & Festivals

January 6

Épiphanie Celebrations

Traditional Three Kings Day celebrations feature galette des rois tastings at bakeries throughout Cayenne and cultural performances at Place Victor Schoelcher. Local families gather for traditional feasts showcasing Creole cuisine mixed with French traditions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket with ventilation - afternoon showers last 45-90 minutes and humidity makes non-breathable materials uncomfortable

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 at equatorial latitude causes burns in under 20 minutes

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support - forest trails become muddy and slippery after 399mm (15.7 inches) monthly rainfall

Moisture-wicking synthetic shirts rather than cotton - 70% humidity means cotton stays damp and causes chafing

Waterproof phone case and dry bags - essential for boat trips and forest walks where electronics exposure to moisture is guaranteed

Long-sleeve lightweight shirts for evening - protection from mosquitoes and no-see-ums most active at dusk

Portable umbrella for market visits - covered areas provide shelter but walking between stalls requires rain protection

Antifungal foot powder - wet boots and high humidity create ideal conditions for athlete's foot

Electrolyte tablets or powder - sweating in 29°C (84°F) heat with high humidity depletes minerals quickly

Quick-dry pants for forest activities - jeans take days to dry and become heavy when wet on muddy trails

Insider Knowledge

Morning activities (7-11am) offer the best weather window - temperatures are coolest at 26°C (79°F), humidity lowest, and afternoon showers haven't started

Many restaurants close 2:30-6pm for afternoon break coinciding with rain periods - plan lunch by 2pm or wait until evening service

Local buses reduce frequency during heavy afternoon showers - allow extra travel time between 2-5pm or use morning transportation

January's elevated river levels mean some interior villages are accessible only by boat - dry season overland routes become waterlogged

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities for 2-5pm when afternoon showers are most likely - morning slots have 80% less rain probability

Bringing only cotton clothing which stays damp in 70% humidity and causes discomfort during multi-hour activities

Underestimating UV intensity due to frequent cloud cover - equatorial sun at UV index 8 burns through light cloud layers