Summary

Explore the curious intersection of Europe and South American on this brief jaunt into French Guiana. You’ll explore the Kourou Space Center where the European Space Administration launches its Ariane-5 rockets as well as the new Russian Soyuz launch platforms. Then spend a remakable day exploring the 18th century ruins of the prisons on Iles du Salut, also known as “Devils Island.”

Highlights

• Sail to the Devils Island, where the islands played a central role in French history as a transit point
• See the impressive buildings that showcast the history of the country
• Visit the H’mong village in the jungle at Cacao and see the market and plantations
• Tour around the city of Cayenne, the creol town and the important commercial and administrative centre
• See the center Guyana Space Center and if lucky, you will se a rocket launch!

ITINERARY

Day 1 Paramaribo/Kourou

Depart early, travelling east along Suriname’s coastal road, to reach the border with French Guiana. Afternoon city tour of Saint Laurent Du Maroni including the former Slave Transport Centre. Continue to Kourou and overnight.

Day 2 Kourou/Cayenne

After breakfast we sail to Saint Joseph Island for a tour of the notorious former penal colony. Return to Kourou and transfer to Cayenne, capital of French Guiana.

Day 3 Cayenne

Half-day tour to Cacao, a H’mong village located 60km from the capital and surrounded by lush jungle. Visit the market, village and plantations and return to your hotel this afternoon.

Day 4 Cayenne

City tour of Cayenne including the town hall and local market. This afternoon we’ll head to the Guiana Space Centre for a tour of this remote shuttle launch site.

Day 5 Cayenne

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

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