French Guiana

Travel tips for French Guiana: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, rental services, and large grocery stores, you must carry euros for small vendors and rural jungle villages like Saül where ATMs and card machines are unavailable.

Try the food

  • Bouillon d'awara: A thick, hearty stew made from the pulp of the awara palm fruit, smoked meats, seafood, and vegetables.
  • Colombo: A rich, thick curry-like stew made with chicken, pork, or fish, heavily spiced with a local blend of turmeric, coriander, and cumin.
  • Blaff: Fresh fish or seafood poached in a clear, aromatic broth of lime juice, garlic, and fiery Scotch bonnet peppers.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: Combien ça coûte ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Pick up a local SIM card from Orange or Digicel at the airport or in Cayenne, or purchase a prepaid eSIM online before arrival for immediate connectivity.

Etiquette

Service is typically included in restaurant bills by law, but leaving a small coin or rounding up the total is appreciated for exceptional service.

Airports in French Guiana