Cayenne
Save23 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓Show on the map
Tips
8 places on the map
Instagrammable
- 1
Palm-lined central square, the heart of the city
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Visit in the evening when it is cooler
- Food stalls appear at night
- Start your walk here
📷 Photos
- 2
Hilltop fort site with views over the river mouth
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Climb for the view
- Bring water
📷 Photos
- 3
19th-century cathedral in the old town
- Tip: Go early
- Tip: Dress code
1 tip
- Check opening hours
📷 Photos
- 4
Long beach in Rémire-Montjoly with palm trees
3 tips
- Avoid swimming in strong currents
- Turtles nest here seasonally
- Take a taxi or rental car
📷 Photos
- 5
Former penal colony islands off Kourou
- Tip: Book ahead
2 tips
- Overnight stays possible
- Bring sun protection
📷 Photos
- 6
Ornate colonial-style town hall
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Admire from outside
- Near the cathedral
📷 Photos
- 7
Coastal hill with viewpoints and the Mahury estuary
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Go with a car
- Bring water
- Views best at sunset
📷 Photos
- 8
Forest trail near Cayenne with views
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Wear sturdy shoes
- Bring repellent
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Cayenne tips
Transportation
- Rent a car: Public transport is limited, so a rental car is the easiest way to reach beaches, Kourou and nature sites.
- Use local buses: City buses cover the main areas of Cayenne, but schedules are limited, especially on Sundays.
- Take taxis collectifs: Shared minibuses connect Cayenne with other towns; they leave when full, so be patient.
Security
- Avoid isolated areas at night: Stay in busy, well-lit places after dark and do not walk alone on empty streets.
- Secure your car: Do not leave valuables in parked cars, especially at beaches and trailheads.
- Protect against mosquito-borne illnesses: Dengue and other diseases occur, so use repellent and check vaccination needs like yellow fever.
Saving
- Shop at the market: The central market sells tropical fruit and local food at better prices than restaurants.
- Eat at food stalls: Try Vietnamese soup at the market or local snacks at stands for cheaper meals.
- Visit free beaches: Beaches around Rémire-Montjoly are free and great for sunsets.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect hot humid weather: Cayenne is tropical, so light breathable clothes and a hat are essential.
- Plan for heavy rains: The rainy season brings heavy showers for much of the year, so pack an umbrella.
- Pack long sleeves for the forest: For hikes in the rainforest, wear light long sleeves and trousers to protect against insects.
Cultural
- Experience Carnival: Cayenne's carnival season brings parades and the famous masked Touloulou dances at weekend balls.
- Speak French: French is the official language, so a few phrases help in shops and restaurants.
- Try Creole dishes: Taste bouillon d'awara, a traditional Easter stew, and colombo curries influenced by many cultures.
Local Hacks
- Watch a rocket launch: The space center in Kourou hosts launches; check schedules and viewing options in advance.
- Visit the Îles du Salut: Boats from Kourou go to these islands with former penal colony ruins and wildlife.
- Go turtle watching: At certain times of year, sea turtles nest on beaches near Cayenne; join a guided night walk.
1-day itineraries in Cayenne
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.