How to get to Cayenne

Cayenne is the vibrant capital of French Guiana, located on the Atlantic coast of South America and attracting tourists with a unique combination of French culture and tropical charm. When planning a trip to Cayenne, it is worth considering that the main way to reach this remote region is by air; however, road routes are also available for travelers from neighboring countries. We have prepared a detailed guide to help you understand how to get to Cayenne and choose the best mode of transport for your journey.

The main aviation hub welcoming travelers is the Félix Eboué International Airport (IATA code: CAY). It is located in the commune of Matoury, just 13 kilometers southwest of the center of Cayenne. This is a modern gateway ensuring the region's primary connection with the outside world.

The most popular route for tourists from Europe is a direct flight from Paris (Orly Airport), which takes about 9 hours. This is the most convenient way to get to French Guiana. Additionally, the airport serves regular regional flights connecting the city with the French Antilles (Martinique and Guadeloupe) and Brazil (specifically with the city of Belém).

Upon arrival, passengers can use taxi services or rent a car right at the terminal to reach their hotel with comfort. The trip to the city center usually takes 20–30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the first views of the tropical nature.

Reaching Cayenne by train is impossible, as there is a complete absence of passenger railway connections in the city and throughout French Guiana. The local transport system relies on roads and air travel, so tourists should not look for train schedules or plan a route by rail.

Even if you are traveling through neighboring countries, using a train for a transfer will not be possible. The nearest major cities, such as Paramaribo and Macapá, are not connected to Cayenne by rail tracks, and railway transport in this region of South America is practically undeveloped. For the trip, it is better to consider options with buses or car rental.

A journey by bus to Cayenne turns into a real expedition through equatorial forests and colorful settlements. The most in-demand route runs from the capital of Suriname, the city of Paramaribo: a path about 340 kilometers long usually takes 6–8 hours, including a picturesque crossing over the border river Maroni. For those ready for longer journeys, there is an option to get there from the Guyanese city of New Amsterdam, however, such a trip will require transit through the entire territory of Suriname and will take a whole day.

From the Brazilian side, the key transport hub is Macapá, located at the mouth of the Amazon. The distance to the administrative center of French Guiana is about 800 kilometers, and the trip along the highway across the bridge over the Oyapock River can take from 10 to 12 hours. Despite the duration, such routes are popular among independent travelers thanks to the opportunity to see the wild nature of the region from the bus window.

A car journey to Cayenne from neighboring states will offer a unique experience of crossing borders and rivers amidst the tropics. A trip from the capital of Suriname, Paramaribo, is considered one of the most accessible options: a path about 350 kilometers long will take approximately 6–7 hours, including the crossing over the border river. For travelers starting from the Guyanese city of New Amsterdam, the road will be much longer — more than 550 kilometers with transit through all of Suriname, which will require from 12 to 14 hours on the road.

The route from the Brazilian city of Macapá will suit lovers of real adventures: a distance of 800 kilometers is covered in 10–12 hours, as the quality of the road surface on some sections may vary. For movement between cities in the region, tourists often use "collective taxis" (taxi collectif), where the cost of a seat averages 30–60 euros, whereas an individual transfer for such long distances will cost several hundred euros.

Preparing for a trip to Cayenne requires attention to detail due to the specific tropical climate and regional characteristics. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, we have compiled a list of relevant recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Given the hot and humid equatorial climate, prioritize loose-fitting clothing made from natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring a reliable raincoat or umbrella, as tropical showers can start suddenly, as well as comfortable closed shoes for walking.
2. Transport: The public transport system in the city is not extensively developed and can be unpredictable for tourists. The optimal solution would be to rent a car, which will give you freedom of movement. If you do not drive, use official taxis, but confirm the cost of the trip in advance or ensure the meter is running.
3. Finance: As this is an Overseas Department of France, the Euro is the currency used here. Bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and large shops, but for purchases at markets, souvenir stalls, or small cafes, you will definitely need cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Health and Safety: Having a yellow fever vaccination certificate is a mandatory requirement for entry into the region. Furthermore, it is extremely important to constantly use repellents for protection against tropical insects. The city is relatively calm, but it is better to avoid deserted outskirts and beaches after dark.
5. Communication: The official language is French, and locals greatly appreciate it when tourists address them in it. English is not widely spoken, especially outside of major hotels, so we recommend learning basic phrases or installing an offline translator on your phone.
6. Local Etiquette: Politeness plays a key role here. Always greet shop assistants, drivers, and hotel staff with "Bonjour" (Good day) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening). Directness or rushing may be perceived as disrespect, as the pace of life here is more measured.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph local residents without their explicit consent — this is considered a rude violation of personal boundaries. Also, avoid swimming in unequipped places: ocean currents can be strong, and the water may be murky due to the proximity of rivers.
8. Operating Hours: Keep in mind that many shops and institutions close for a long lunch break in the middle of the day. Plan important errands for the morning, and visits to the famous market are best made at dawn when the stalls are full of fresh fruit and fish.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid misunderstandings and focus on exploring the unique culture and nature of this corner of South America. The city reveals its best side to those who respect local traditions and are ready for small adventures.