Christmas in French Guiana

To escape the grey winter and the crowded streets of Europe, December is an ideal month to discover Guyana.

© Photo credit : Par Canva Pro _ Christmas tree in French Guiana

What's the climate like in French Guiana in December?

In December, Cayenne gets very little sunshine, around 6 hours a day, and about 18 days of rain for the month. This is the rainy season. Showers are therefore more frequent, but there will always be more sunshine than in France. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C, but depending on the year, temperatures can drop as low as 20°C and rise as high as 35°C. (PS: Don't forget your rain gear!).

© Photo credit : By Canva pro, Christmas in the Salvation Islands

Where to spend Christmas in Guyana ?

Several alternatives are available to you. If you are more of a city person, Cayenne is a privileged destination to spend unforgettable moments in December. You will have the opportunity to visit many unique places such as the cathedral of Cayenne or the famous museum of Guyanese cultures.

To discover the Creole culture, don't miss the Place des Palmistes after dark. Located in the heart of downtown Cayenne, it is a place that is often animated (food trucks, rides, etc..). It is the ideal opportunity to mingle with the local population and taste the local cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. For Christmas, you can expect temperatures around 30°C in the shade and a rather calm atmosphere where the "chanté nwèl" reigns.

© Photo credit : By Canva Pro - Place des palmistes in December

What do we eat on Christmas Eve in French Guiana?

The cuisine may be quite similar to that found in mainland France, but some products are sold at a much higher price, as they have to be transported from afar (oysters, foie gras, smoked salmon, etc.).

Pork and poultry are the mainstay of Christmas meals in French Guiana. There's also the traditional Christmas ham, Creole pâté and Creole black pudding.

To round off the meal, enjoy a fresh fruit salad or bindingwel, a dense cake.

© Photo credit : By Canva Pro - chrismas meal

Unforgettable Nwèl singing, a widespread local tradition

Chanté nwel" is a widespread Creole tradition in the West Indies, starting in December. It's a moment of sharing that has its origins in the Catholic tradition of "cantiques" celebrating the birth of the Christ child.

It's a true moment of communion between the local population, combining tradition, Christianity and all the gastronomy that makes up Christmas folklore.

© Photo credit : By Canva Pro - chrismas carol

The Christmas market

Last year, the CTG organized its first market. Over 15,000 people attended. More than 80 stands were set up, and children could have their photo taken with Santa Claus, surrounded by beautiful Christmas decorations. Prepare yourself before leaving

The contents of your suitcase for a trip to French Guiana depend mainly on your itinerary, and also on the different activities you will participate in.

For a trip to the coast, pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for the hot climate, but also light shirts, Bermuda shorts and cotton T-shirts. You should also bring bathing suits, sunglasses, a hat and sun and UV protection creams. 

Are you planning to discover all the natural wealth of the Amazon jungle? Then don't forget to bring waterproof clothing, thick socks and closed shoes as well as repellent products to protect you from mosquitoes.

Don't forget your camera for souvenir photos, a toiletry kit, as well as your identity papers, passport and driving license.

Get around easily with your rental car

To get around comfortably, it is highly recommended to rent a car in Cayenne. Indeed, public transport does not serve all the cities. Moreover, cab rides are quite expensive. Renting a car will allow you to save money while enjoying maximum freedom in the choice of places to visit.

Book your rental car online now!