Getting Around

By Road

The main road is the RN1, which runs along the coast from Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in the west through Kourou to Cayenne, and continues east to Saint-Georges-de-l'Oyapock on the Brazilian border. This is the only proper highway; most inland areas have no paved roads at all.

Taxis collectifs (shared taxis or minibuses) are the main form of intercity transport. They depart when full from designated spots in each town. The Cayenne–Kourou run takes about an hour; Cayenne–Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is around 3.5 hours and costs roughly €25–40 depending on the operator. No fixed schedule — just show up at the departure point.

Rental cars are available in Cayenne and Kourou from major international agencies. Driving is on the right, French road rules apply.

By Air

Light aircraft serve the interior villages that have no road access. Air Guyane Express runs scheduled flights from Cayenne to Saul (the only way in for most visitors), Maripasoula, Grand-Santi, and Camopi. Saul flights take about 45 minutes and cost around €100–150 each way. Book ahead, especially in dry season.

By River

In the interior and along the Maroni River, dugout canoes (pirogues) are the primary transport. Hiring a pirogue with a local boatman is possible from towns like Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni and Maripasoula. It's slow, sometimes expensive, and often the only option. For travel deeper into Maroon or Amerindian territory, you may need permits — check with the Préfecture in Cayenne.

In Cayenne

Cayenne itself is walkable in the centre. For getting around the city and surrounding area, taxis are readily available, or rent a car. There is no urban rail system.