French Guiana
South America · territory
French Guiana is a territory in South America, home to 310,000 people, with an area of 83,534 km². Its capital is Cayenne.
- Capital
- Cayenne
- Population
- 310,000
- Area
- 83,534 km²
- Region
- South America
- Density
- 3.7 / km²
- Status
- Dependency or territory
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
What French Guiana is known for
French Guiana is best known for Guiana Space Centre, Devil's Island and Îles du Salut.
French Guiana is an overseas department and region of France located on the northeastern coast of South America. The territory is known for its unique mix of French and Creole cultures, as well as its diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
French Guiana at a glance
- Language
- French is the official language, but Creole and other languages are also widely spoken
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Religion
- Christianity is the predominant religion in French Guiana, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic
- National dish
- Blaff (a traditional Creole fish stew)
- Climate
- French Guiana has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round, and a rainy season from December to June
- Main industries
- Space exploration, including the Guiana Space Centre; gold mining; and agriculture, including fishing and forestry
- GDP
- $4.6 billion (nominal, 2019 estimate)
- Development
- French Guiana is considered a developing country, with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 133 out of 189 countries (2020)
Things to do in French Guiana
Some of the main tourist attractions in French Guiana include:
- Guiana Space Centre a world-famous spaceport located near Kourou, known for its role in launching satellites and other space missions.
- Devil's Island a former penal colony located off the coast of French Guiana, now a popular tourist destination for its history and natural beauty.
- Îles du Salut a group of islands located off the coast of French Guiana, including Devil's Island, known for their stunning beaches and wildlife.
- Kaw Nature Reserve a protected area located in the heart of French Guiana, known for its diverse wildlife and pristine natural landscapes.
- Hattes Beach a famous nesting site for sea turtles, located on the Atlantic coast of French Guiana.
- Fort Cépérou a historic fort located in the city of Cayenne, known for its interesting exhibits and stunning views of the city.
These are just a few examples of the many attractions that French Guiana has to offer. The territory's unique mix of cultures, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes make it a must-see destination for travelers who are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
French Guiana in pictures
French Guiana on video
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French Guiana compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of South America.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Uruguay | 3.4 million | 176,215 km² | Montevideo |
 Guyana | 840,000 | 214,969 km² | Georgetown |
 Suriname | 640,000 | 163,820 km² | Paramaribo |
| French Guiana | 310,000 | 83,534 km² | Cayenne |
Questions about French Guiana
What is the capital of French Guiana?
The capital of French Guiana is Cayenne.
How many people live in French Guiana?
About 310,000 people.
How big is French Guiana?
French Guiana covers 83,534 km², in South America.
What is French Guiana known for?
French Guiana is best known for Guiana Space Centre, Devil's Island and Îles du Salut.
What language is spoken in French Guiana?
French is the official language, but Creole and other languages are also widely spoken.
What currency is used in French Guiana?
Euro (EUR).
Is French Guiana a country?
French Guiana is a dependency or overseas territory rather than a sovereign state, so it appears only when territories are switched on in the generator.