Visit Saint Laurent du Maroni in French Guiana

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni: Overview

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is located in the west of French Guiana, along the border with Suriname. Known for its historical and cultural heritage, the city was once a major penal colony.

Today, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a vibrant city that blends colonial heritage, ethnic diversity, and its position along the Maroni River, offering a range of tourist and natural activities. It serves as a gateway to the Amazon and provides a pleasant setting for travelers seeking adventure and cultural discovery.

Why We Love Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

💚 Historical Heritage : Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is famous for the Camp de la Transportation, a former prison that provides a poignant glimpse into the penal history of French Guiana through guided tours.

💚 Cultural Diversity : As a melting pot of Creole, Amerindian, Bushinengué, and metropolitan cultures, the city offers a unique mosaic of traditions and languages.

💚 Maroni River : The Maroni River, a natural border with Suriname, offers opportunities to explore traditional villages and immerse yourself in nature.

💚 Natural Scenery : Located at the edge of the Amazon, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is ideal for canoe trips and forest hikes.

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni: Key Facts

• Area : 4,830 km²

• Population : Approximately 50,000 inhabitants

• Climate : Equatorial, hot and humid year-round, with a rainy season from December to June

• Main Attractions : Camp de la Transportation, Saint-Laurent market, Maroni River, Apatou village

Location of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is on the west coast of French Guiana, about 250 km from Cayenne, the capital, and close to the Suriname border, on the banks of the Maroni River.

What to Do in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

1. Discover the City’s Past

• Camp de la Transportation : This former prison is a key historical site where detainees were once sent before being dispatched to other penal colonies. The site, with its old cells and buildings, provides a moving insight into this historical period.

• Petit Paris : This historic neighborhood represents a unique urban structure for a penal colony in France. Originally home to official buildings and staff housing, it is characterized by its spacious green areas, rare in the rest of the city.

2. Explore the Maroni River

• Portal Island : a small Amerindian island with around a hundred inhabitants.

• Leper Island : this island once housed leprosy patients and was famously part of Papillon's" escape.

3. Experience Local Culture

• Saint-Laurent Market : held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, this market offers a wide selection of local fruits and vegetables.

• Rhumerie Saint Maurice : Visit the only rum distillery in French Guiana and discover the famous Belle Cabresse bottle.

4. Go Hiking

• Chutes Voltaire : perfect for a group outing, a 73 km drive on a rough road leads to a 3 km hike through the Amazonian forest, ending with impressive waterfalls.

• Montagne des Singes : a pleasant 3.9 km trail through preserved forest where you might spot Morphos butterflies, tamarins, and hear the call of the Paypayo.

Events to Watch Out For in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

The city of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is lively throughout the year with various cultural and festive events, reflecting its rich ethnic and historical heritage.

1. Carnival of Saint-Laurent (February/March)

A major event featuring colorful parades, flamboyant costumes, and traditional music.

2. Saint-Laurent Festival (August)

The patronal festival with concerts, dances, sports competitions, and fireworks.

3. Heritage Days (September)

European Heritage Days offer tours and exhibitions at sites like the Camp de la Transportation.

4. Festival of Amerindian and Bushinengué Cultures (October)

Showcases the traditions, crafts, music, dance, and cuisine of indigenous peoples.

Weather in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

• Average Temperature : Between 26°C and 32°C

• Rainy Season : December to June, with frequent but usually short showers

• Dry Season : July to November, ideal for visiting

How to Get There and Get Around

From Cayenne Airport, you can reach Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni by car in about 3 hours via the RN1.

Car Rental in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

To rent a car, you can either pick up your vehicle at the Europcar Guyane agency in downtown Saint-Laurent or directly at Cayenne Airport for convenience.

3 Ideal Cars for Exploring Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

For exploring Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni and French Guiana, a rental car is essential. A Renault Clio is great for city driving, while a Dacia Duster is suited for tougher roads and nature adventures. For families or groups, a spacious SUV offers the comfort and space needed for enjoyable excursions.