About
French Guiana is an overseas collectivity of France, set on the northern coast of South America and bordered by Brazil and Suriname. Although it sits on a different continent from mainland France, it is part of the French state, which gives the territory a distinctive blend of European administration and tropical landscape.
What draws visitors
The territory is best known for the Guiana Space Centre at Kourou, the primary launch site of the European Space Agency. Its equatorial position is the reason it was chosen, since launches from close to the equator can take advantage of the Earth's rotation. For visitors interested in science, engineering or the history of space exploration, the link to Kourou is the most unusual feature of a trip here.
Beyond the launch site, the landscape is the other main attraction. More than 90% of the territory is covered by Amazon rainforest, so a visit tends to suit those who enjoy nature, wildlife and slow, green surroundings rather than large cities.
Planning a visit
- Setting: a northern coastline and a large interior of dense forest, with a relatively small population.
- Culture: the population reflects a mix of backgrounds, which shows in everyday life and local life across the territory.
- Access: as a French overseas collectivity, it is reached from mainland France or from neighbouring countries, and travellers should check the current entry requirements before going.
French Guiana suits travellers who want something quite different from a typical European trip: a place where a rocket launch site and untouched rainforest exist side by side. Those seeking busy urban sightseeing may find it quieter than expected, but those drawn to the forest and to the space programme will find it a rare destination.