Overview

Kourou © Cayambe

French Guiana is situated on the north coast of South America and is part of the French Republic. Visitors can experience a world of foreign sights, cultures, and cuisine. Popular stops include the picturesque capital, Cayenne, and the Center Spatial Guyanais (Space Centre) in the city of Kourou.

Dense rainforests cover much of the tiny country, making it a fantastic Eco-tourism destination. Nature lovers will also appreciate seeing leatherback turtles lay eggs at Awala-Yalimpopo, spotting exotic birds on the Kaw savannah and watching capuchin monkeys lying along the Sentier Molokoi de Cacao trail. The lovely Salvation Islands (Îles du Salut) lie just off the coast and make a tremendous setting for island holidays.

Regarding its history, French Guiana was originally inhabited by indigenous Americans and settled by the French in the 17th century. Today, it's administered by a French representative based in Cayenne. The country uses the Euro currency, as it is part of the European Union, and its main industries are fishing, timber, and gold mining. Eco-tourism is a growing enterprise.

Various ethnicities make up French Guiana's small population. The majority are Guianese Creole, Maroon, Amerindian, and French. For the most part, the country's people inhabit the more developed coastal areas. French is the official language, though Creole is widely spoken. Roman Catholicism is the main faith.

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