Weather in Cayenne

Planning a visit to the city of Cayenne? Familiarise yourself with the current meteorological summary, charts, and weather forecasts presented below to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.

The climate of Cayenne can be described as classic tropical equatorial, creating an atmosphere of eternal summer. It is almost always warm and humid here, and sharp temperature fluctuations are virtually non-existent. The proximity of the Atlantic Ocean tempers the heat by bringing refreshing breezes, making the city comfortable for travellers throughout the year.

A distinctive feature of the local weather is the remarkable stability of temperatures. Throughout the year, the thermometer fluctuates within a narrow range: night temperatures rarely drop below +23°C, while daytime temperatures usually hover around +26...+31°C. There is no seasonal "winter-summer" shift typical of temperate latitudes, so you certainly will not need warm clothing.

The primary difference in weather across the months lies in the amount of rainfall. Cayenne has a distinct, long wet season that covers most of the year, particularly from December to July. During this time, rains are frequent but usually take the form of short, intense tropical downpours. A drier and sunnier period occurs in August, September, October, and November — this is the best time for those who prefer clear skies and minimal rain.

The climate in Cayenne is distinguished by enviable stability, typical of equatorial latitudes. The customary division into four seasons is virtually absent here: eternal summer prevails year-round with high temperatures and humidity. Annual averages fluctuate within a very narrow range, from +25.6°C in January to +28.0°C in October, making the concept of cold merely theoretical here.

The hottest period coincides with calendar autumn. September and October show the highest figures: the average temperature reaches +28°C, and daytime maximums often exceed +31.5°C. The sun is most active during this time of year. The nominal "winter" (January and February) brings only a slight drop in temperature to an average of +25.7°C, which tourists still perceive as hot weather, albeit slightly milder compared to the peak heat.

Diurnal temperature fluctuations in Cayenne are small, yet they bring pleasant relief. While the air warms up to +28...+31°C during the day, the thermometer drops to a comfortable +23...+24°C by night. This difference allows you to enjoy warm evenings without stifling heat, whilst nights are never truly cold, remaining favourable for walks in light clothing.

Cayenne is situated in a humid tropical climate zone, making precipitation a frequent and quite common phenomenon for locals. Rains occur throughout the year, though their nature and frequency vary depending on the season. Given the consistently high air temperatures, precipitation falls exclusively as warm downpours, which are often brief yet refreshing.

The wettest period lasts from April to July, when the likelihood of rain is at its peak. According to statistics, May is the rainiest month, with precipitation recorded almost daily (up to 31 rainy days). One should also be prepared for frequent rains in December and January. During this time, travellers should certainly carry a reliable umbrella or a light raincoat.

A relatively dry season arrives in the second half of the year. September and October are considered the "driest" months. In September, the number of rainy days drops to a minimum — about 13 days per month, and the total rainfall volume falls to 2 mm. This time is considered the most favourable for walks and exploring the city, as the sun appears in the sky much more frequently.

Given the hot and humid tropical climate of Cayenne, where the average air temperature consistently stays around +26...+28°C year-round, the foundation of your luggage should be light clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics. Opt for cotton and linen in light shades, which will help you cope with the heat more easily. T-shirts, shorts, light trousers, and loose-fitting dresses are the ideal choice for city walks. Since humidity is high, clothes can take a long time to dry, so it is recommended to bring several spare sets of underwear and casual wear.

Particular attention should be paid to rain protection, as precipitation in French Guiana is regular, and from January to July, the number of rainy days can reach 25–30 per month. Be sure to pack a compact yet sturdy umbrella or a light poncho raincoat that can be quickly thrown on during a sudden downpour. Regarding footwear, the best option would be comfortable, quick-drying sandals with secure straps or light trainers that you do not mind getting wet; avoid footwear made of suede or materials that are damaged by water.

Do not forget protection against the active sun, especially if you plan a trip during the drier and hotter season from August to October, when temperatures often exceed +30°C. A wide-brimmed hat, high-quality sunglasses, and cream with a high SPF factor are essential items for any tourist in this region. Despite the heat, it is also useful to carry a light long-sleeved jumper or windbreaker: it will come in handy on cool evenings or in premises with strong air conditioning.