French Guiana, an overseas region of France in South America, is known for its lush rainforests, the Guiana Space Centre near Kourou, and historic sites like the Îles du Salut, including the former penal colony of Devil’s Island. The currency is the euro (EUR), and prices are generally high compared to neighbouring countries, reflecting European standards. Credit cards are accepted in most towns, though cash may be needed in remote areas. The climate is tropical, with hot, humid weather year-round and a rainy season from December to July, making August to November the driest and most comfortable time to visit.
French Guiana’s transport infrastructure is limited, especially outside urban areas. Within cities like Cayenne, there are some local buses, but public transport is sparse and unreliable, so getting around often requires a car. Between towns, travel is mostly by road, with a single main highway connecting major settlements along the coast. Inland areas are harder to reach and often require river transport or small planes. Overall, mobility can be challenging without private transportation, particularly outside the coastal region.