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Is French Guiana safe? Revealing all the secrets to stay safe

South America and Caribbean • June 21, 2024

Is French Guiana safe? Are there some extra precautions I should take when visiting? While traveling to French Guiana is completely safe and an exciting adventure, there are still a few things to consider when preparing your journey there. In this blog post I’m going to dive into the most searched safety topics you should be aware of when planning to visit French Guiana.

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Crime

The crime level has fluctuated between 16 and 13 over the last 10 years (number of crimes for 100.000 inhabitants). In comparison: Tokyo is the safest city with the lowest rate 0,7 while Tijuana is the most dangerous with 138. With that said there is a very little violent crime towards tourists. And you will be safe, as long as you don’t wander alone (or even as a couple) at night. Especially in darkened and isolated areas.

On the other hand, pickpocketing and purse snatching are pretty common especially in urban areas. Don’t forget to leave all your jewelry at home especially chains and earrings, as you could be the easy target of kids on bikes or motorcycles. Ensure that your documents are always safe as well and keep copies.

In the same fashion you should not leave objects visible and unattended in vehicles. To find your car with broken glasses can be pretty common especially if you have left things visible inside.

girls wearing sunglasses inside a car with wind in their hair — Have I ever felt in danger traveling solo as a woman in French Guiana? Never!

Felines, Caimans, and Poisonous Insects and Snakes

French Guiana is home to amazing felines like the jaguar and the puma. As they are afraid of humans, they will avoid getting close to you. Also bathing in the rivers is safe and an experience to try. You can even bath among the caimans in Kaw Natural reserve. You heard it right! In fact, French Guiana’s rivers are full of fishes and the caimans prefer easier preys to humans.

I know this may sound scary, but the numbers will help me: in the last 20 years there are no reported deadly attacks of caimans in French Guiana. Alligators and crocodiles are way more dangerous (and geographically far away)!

In addition to the great mammals and reptilians, you should not worry of poisonous snakes and insects. There are only a few whose poison is really dangerous, but with a prompt intervention they aren’t deadly to adults. And of course, we have GPS, satellite phones, and helicopters for fast rescue.

By the way! If you are interested in animal observation you should definitely check French Guiana’s zoo. A sanctuary that welcome injured or handicapped animals in their natural habitat, and only native from the region.

isognatus caricae caterpillar on frangipane

Expeditions in the Amazonian Forest

Exploring the Amazonian Forest can be such an incredible experience!

And you shouldn’t absolutely deprive you from doing that. As long as you stay on the track, and you don’t try to find the Eldorado by yourself. Exploring the deep forest should only be done with expert guides. The risk of getting lost if you are exploring by yourself is very high.

If you want inspiration for some excursions you can do while visiting, check out my blog posts about the exploration of the Amazonian Forest.

Road safety

French Guiana has one main road called RN1 (Route Nationale 1) that cross the coastal cities from Sant Laurent to Saint Georges de l’Oiapoque. RN1 is paved and well maintained. Besides that, smaller roads can be disseminated with potholes and the risk of a wheel-hole is real if you don’t drive cautiosly.

Driving at night is not particularly dangerous even if the lighting is very poor. But you should be careful to animals crossing. Capibaras can take you by surprise and they are bigger than they seem. If you hit one, you will damage your car. Also make sure to drive in area that have phone’s network or invest in a satellite phone. The roads are pretty isolated, and the distances can be long.

Know what vaccinations you need

The only mandatory vaccine you need to cross the border is yellow fever. And it will be checked!

The first time I came in French Guiana I had to get vaccinated for yellow fever. I remember the doctor trying to force me to get hepatitis A, typhoid fever and rabies as well. Unless you want to, you don’t need all these vaccinations. I have read a lot about French Guiana before moving here and from the outside you could believe that it’s plagued with cholera, meningitis and dysentery on common basis.

That’s simply not true!

Dengue, Chikungunya and Malaria

Don’t let their cute names fool you, because Dengue, Chikungunya, and Malaria (known locally as Paludisme) are viruses transmitted by mosquitoes. Luckily for us their propagation is not really broad. Except for sporadic epidemics of Dengue virus.

The best solution for avoiding their bite? Using insects’ repellents, specific to mosquitoes is better. Wearing long clothes with light colors. But above all avoid places nearby stagnant bodies of water and in general nearby the lush vegetation at nightfall, usually between 6.30 and 8.00 PM. This is when nocturnal mosquitoes get out to feed.

What if I get infected?

Luckily for you unless you are visiting in the middle of a rare dengue epidemics, and you are not exploring the deep Amazonia Forest (internal region which is more difficult to reach), it is very unlikely you will get one of these infections. BUT even if you get them, unless you have some particular health issues (in that case consult your doctor first), it’s nothing a doctor and some rest will not fix.

close up of a capybara eye — Mosquitoes are often attracted by places with lush vegetation and low illumination where you can find wild animals too.

Zika virus

This is one of the questions I get asked a lot, especially since I had both of my pregnancies in French Guiana. Is Zika virus dangerous and should it prevent me from visiting? Absolutely not! In fact, Zika virus is less dangerous than the above mentioned.

Zika became notorious when birth defects were reported in Brazil. These included microcephaly, a medical condition where babies are born with abnormally small heads. Even if these cases are extremely rare in French Guiana, if you are pregnant maybe you should consider delaying your trip.

travel to french guiana facebook community — Join our Facebook community here.

Strikes

In 2017 French Guiana froze. The day before an Ariane 5 take off, a strike started from the Guiana Space Center and spread all over the region. Even if this strike blocked everything (the airport was blocked as well as the connections between each city), this is still a pretty unique case in French Guiana history. And although France is famous for its strikes, episodes like this in French Guiana are more unique than rare.

That’s why you shouldn’t worry about ending up blocked by a raging protest. And in case you didn’t know, the 2017 strike, which lasted 5 weeks, was a peaceful protest. Its main purpose? People’s safety and unemployment in French Guiana.

Learn French

Are you willing to visit French Guiana? Then maybe you should dust off your French books. Let me explain. It is well known that French people are the worst when it comes to speaking English (I hope my French friends won’t hate me too much after reading this!). For this reason, you should consider learning some basics when visiting. Otherwise, you will soon find out that communications may be quite difficult!

Of course, there are exceptions to this 🙂

Our top posts for your trip to French Guiana

Exploring Petit Saut artificial archipelago

salvation islands best places to visit in french guiana

10 Incredible places to visit in French Guiana

Cocoteraie beach in Kourou, French Guiana

The most beautiful beaches in French Guiana

In conclusion is French Guiana safe?

By now I hope you have realized that traveling to French Guiana is safe as soon as you keep these precautions in mind. I think that it’s a region to discover for its incredibly rich habitat and story. If you have more questions about traveling to French Guiana, feel free to ask in our Facebook community about traveling to French Guiana, I’ll be glad to help. Would you like to know more about the activities you can do there? Check the French Guiana section.

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11 Amazing places to visit when in Istanbul for 3 days

Europe • May 30, 2023

Istanbul is the door between Europe and the Middle East and one of the most incredible cities in the world! Although when visiting Istanbul on a schedule, it may be easy to miss some iconic places. In this guide we are going to see the most beautiful places to visit when in Istanbul for at least 3 days. Let’s see them!

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11 Amazing places to visit when in Istanbul for 3 daysRead More »

11 Amazing places to visit when in Istanbul for 3 days Read More »

baby parrot on marajo island things to do in belem brazil

The best things to do in Belem, Brazil

South America and Caribbean • August 1, 2023

Skyscrapers in the lush Amazonian Jungle? Yup most likely you have landed in Belem. This ancient/modern city of 1,5 million inhabitants is located on the large estuary of the Amazon River. Alternating colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers, and luxuriant vegetation, Belem is one of a kind city outside the tourists’ radars. And yet it’s very interesting to explore on a larger Brazil itinerary, or even as the starting point of the three Guianas crossing. Come check the best things to do in Belem.

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The best things to do in Belem, Brazil Read More »

Hiking the Rorota Trail, an epic hike to see Nature

South America and Caribbean • December 6, 2022

Nature reigns in French Guiana. And if you need proof of that you don’t have to go far. In fact, a few kilometers from Cayenne the region’s capital, many trails cross the lush coastal vegetation. One of the most famous is without a doubt the Rorota Trail. Running on Rorota Mountain, the trail will let you discover one of the wildest forests of Cayenne’s peninsula.

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Hiking the Rorota Trail, an epic hike to see Nature Read More »

12 EASY ways for making friends in a new city

Expat Life • December 12, 2022

Moving abroad or simply to a new city means having a fresh start with all its pros and cons. One of the cons? Finding yourself with no friends (except maybe your partner). Unless you are Ebenezer Scrooge, that may be quite daunting. Worry not! Making friends in a new city is waaay easier than it seems. All you need is optimism, confidence, and following the tips below.

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12 EASY ways for making friends in a new city Read More »

How to see Rome in a day, the ultimate guide

Europe • July 2, 2024

Rome wasn’t built in a day. And when booking your trip to Italy ideally you should consider staying more than one night in the Eternal City. Although do not despair! Visiting the major landmarks of Rome in a day is totally doable, as long as you plan in advance your trip, and you are ready to start early. As part of my family still lives there, I know Rome as the back of my hand, and this is one of my favorite city walks to do.

Rome in a day, the ultimate guide

Before we dive in, I leave you the map of all the stops detailed down below. We start from point A on the right and end the tour in Vatican City on the left. From point G to point A, you will take the C line of the metro. This is all detailed down below.

8.30 AM – Kick the day off from Piazza del Popolo

Why Piazza del Popolo?

For two practical reasons. First, it’s next to the Flaminio train and metro station. “All roads lead to Rome and all trains lead to Flaminio”. Even though that’s an exaggeration, Flaminio is very well-connected to all the areas of the city. If your hotel isn’t in the center you will easily arrive at Flaminio station.

Second, because Piazza del Popolo (People’s Square) has one of the best well-kept secrets to the tourist’s eyes. When you are standing with your back to the obelisk and Villa Borghese on your left, you will see three roads that start from the Square and expand gradually forming a triangle. Each one of the roads leads to a symbol of power.

The first on the left leads to the Quirinale, the presidential palace. The central avenue ends in Piazza Venezia and Altare della Patria (Homeland’s Altar). A tribute to the Unity of Italy and the people who sacrificed themselves to gain it. The last avenue leads to a baroque church, San Luigi dei Francesi (Saint Louis of the French people), the third power in Rome.

This square is also a magnificent example of architectural stratification, with elements from the Renaissance to the Rococo (late Baroque).

To continue your walk, take the first avenue on your left via del Babbuino (Baboon’s avenue). This avenue has some of the most hyped shops in Rome, as well as the most luxurious art galleries.

9.00 AM – Live your Fashion Dreams on the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps is one of the most beautiful squares in Rome and a must-see landmark. Why have I linked it to fashion? Because every year this iconic location hosts the fashion shows of the greatest designers from all around the world (you can have a glimpse of how magical these events are).

The Spanish Steps merge with the steps of Trinità dei Monti, a beautiful baroque church that towers over the square. If you have the time (and energy!) I recommend you go to the top of the stairs and visit it.

Following the visit to the Spanish Steps, you will walk along via Condotti. Unsurprisingly, the whole area is disseminated by haute couture and luxury brands shops. It’s one of the richest neighborhoods in Rome.

10.00 AM – Be amazed by Piazza Navona

One of the most iconic squares was once a stadium. During the 16th century, the powerful family Pamphili commissioned works that drastically changed its appearance. The three baroque fountains were added:

the fountain of the four rivers is the largest. It represents the Nile, Gange, Danube, and Rio del Plata.
the fountain of the Moro is the oldest among the three.
the fountain of Neptune. Its construction started in 1574 but the fountain was completed only in the 18th century.

Did you know? Piazza Navona literally means Square of the big boat. The reason behind the name is the particular rectangular elongated shape.

10.20 AM – Enter inside the Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the most ancient and well-preserved buildings of Roman heritage. Its construction ended around 120 AD commissioned by emperor Adriano. The name Pantheon (which translates as Pan: All, Theo: Gods) is referred to the statues that decorate the interior.

When visiting Rome, I highly recommend visiting this amazing monument. To enter you can book the tickets here (they include and audio guide).

11.00 AM – Toss three coins at the Trevi Fountain

Even if Italy’s landmark is the Colosseum (or Pisa tower, which one would you choose?), for me Rome’s landmark is the Trevi Fountain. Bernini’s exquisite baroque monument is the symbol of the city and one of the most famous water fountains in the world.

The legend of the Trevi Fountain

According to the legend, if you want to return to Rome, you must throw a coin in the fountain with your eyes closed and back turned. To find true love you have to throw two coins in the fountains. While for three coins you will go back to Rome, find true love, and marry!

Legend or not, more than 3.000€ are thrown for a good cause in the fountain every day. In fact, the money goes to Caritas, an institution that helps the needy.

A little tip: if you want to visit the Trevi Fountain without the crowd, you can go very early in the morning, even at 6 or 7 AM. That way you will savor it all by yourself, it’s completely worth the wake-up call!

11.30 AM – Admire the grandiosity of Altare della Patria

When Vittorio Emanuele II of Savoia, the first king of united Italy, died in 1878, the idea to tribute a monument to the biggest figures of the Unity became more and more popular. More than 50 years later, they inaugurated the Altare della Patria, also known as Vittoriano (of the Victory).

This impressive monument which reminds the big Greek sanctuaries like Pergamo’s Altar, hosts a museum about the Unity of Italy. When coming from the Trevi Fountain, the Altare della Patria will suddenly appear in front of you in all its grandiosity.

Have a photo or two from the front and then continue your walk through the Imperial Fora.

12.00 AM – Walk through Via dei Fori Imperiali

To reach the Colosseum you will be “forced” to walk through Via dei Fori Imperiali (Avenue of the Imperial Fora). This large avenue was created by Benito Mussolini to connect the new (Altare della Patria) with the old (Colosseum).

Without a doubt, it is one of the most scenic streets in Rome.

While crossing it you can stop not only on the left side to admire the beautiful Colonna Traiana (Traian Column). But also, to the right to see the Roman Forums. It’s one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Rome, as you get to see the city as it once was at its peak.

12.30 AM – Enter the Colosseum’s Arena

Ah, the Colosseum!

Italy’s landmark and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. There is no doubt that the Colosseum won’t leave you indifferent. The largest amphitheater in the world stands still, even after 2.000 years after its construction.

Be sure to buy your tickets online early so that you can book the 12.30 entry. There is always a huge line waiting to enter the Colosseum, but you can skip it if you book the tickets.

Depending on the ticket you will book you have the right to access three different sections:

for the first price you can access the spectators’ sectors on the different levels
the second price allows you to enter the arena
the full experience will let you discover the hypogeum via a guided tour.

Buy the simple entry tickets here. Or check out more options and tours on our dedicated blog post: the best Colosseum tours.

1.30 PM – Enjoy Italian excellent food

Your visit to the Colosseum will take you about 1 hour.

When it’s over and before heading to the second part of our city tour, you can stop by one of the many restaurants nearby the Colosseum. Climb the stairs up and reach via Nicola Salvi. Enjoy the beautiful view of the Colosseo while walking and arrive in via del Cardello. There are many restaurants in that area. Just pick the one that inspires you the most. They are all delicious!

With rested legs and a full belly, it’s time to go back to the metro station “Colosseo” you passed close by on your way to the restaurant. The Colosseo is on the C metro line. That means you will have to wait just 4 stops and get down at “Piazza Risorgimento”, the direction is towards Clodio-Mazzini station.

Your final destination waits for you!

3.00 PM – Get lost in San Pietro’s beauty

If you respected the schedule, you should have enough time to visit the extraordinary Saint Peter’s Basilica. And cross another state from your bucket list.

That’s right! You are officially in the Vatican City independent state.

Surprisingly the Vatican is also the smallest independent state in the world with a surface of only 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles). In other words, it’s 120 times smaller than Manhattan. And yet there is so much to see!

As you will not have the time to explore the Vatican Museums (to visit them properly you would need two days at least), you can still visit Saint Peter’s Basilica. The biggest Christian Basilica in the world.

The security line to enter goes quite fast surprisingly and you will find yourself inside in the blink of an eye.

If you still have some energy left after all the walking, I highly recommend investing 8€ (once you are inside the Basilica) and climbing to the top of the dome. The view from the top is easily one of the best in Rome.

The stairs are steep and narrow, but the view is absolutely worth it!

Respect the rules: To enter Saint Peters, you will have to respect the dress code, which means covered shoulders and knees.

Congratulations you’ve made it!

When it’s the best time to book my stay?

There is no best time to visit as every season has its charm. Even so, when planning to see Italy’s capital in one day, you should avoid the touristy season: summer and the winter holidays. At this time of the year, Rome becomes an anthill and you will find long lines everywhere.

So, there is a best time to visit after all…

Well, from late September to October and from April to early May the weather conditions and tourists’ affluence are optimal to visit. Temperatures are between 16° and 22° (61 F to 71 F) making it easier to walk all day.

Best accommodations for a Rome in a day trip

Depending on your budget you have a multitude of choices. As I started my city tour from Piazza del Popolo, the accommodations I’m going to propose to you are all around that area.

Luxury Hotel

If you want to treat yourself to a magical stay, I’d definitely recommend spending the night in Hotel de Russie. French poet Jean Cocteau said about Hotel de Russie “it’s paradise on earth”. The truth is this hotel is a gem in the heart of the Eternal city. Its beautiful backside garden has even small fountains.

Mid-range Hotel

Want a good stay without breaking the bank? Valadier Hotel is between mid-range and luxury and in a strategic position close to Piazza del Popolo and to the Spanish Steps.

Budget Hotel

One of the budget-friendliest options you have in Rome is the Locanda di Piazza del Popolo. As the name says, it is just a few meters from Piazza del Popolo and the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese.

traian column rome roman forum italy — The Traian column in Via dei Fori Imperiali

The Traian column in Via dei Fori Imperiali

Some extra advice to plan your stay in Rome

Book the tickets to the Colosseum in advance

This is vital if you want to enter the Colosseum. As a result of booking tickets in advance you will skip the line and have a fixed schedule. You can book the tickets to the Colosseum (including the Gladiators Arena) here.

Have some extra cash on you

Even if credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, don’t forget to carry some extra cash for the little treats, like ice cream or a cappuccino. The bars may have a minimum expense rquired before accepting the credit card.

Is Rome in a day mission (im)possible?

Be ready to have sore feet and maybe even get sunburnt, depending on the day. But you can definitely conquer Rome in a day! And it’s 100% worth it!

But what if you have more time? Rome center is absolutely beautiful, and if you want to go off the classic cityguide, steal our off the beaten path activities. And don’t forget to check out the most beautiful photo spots in Rome!

However, you should consider visiting also its surroundings. A day trip to Tivoli, just a few kilometers from Rome, will let you discover the gigantic ancient Roman Villa Adriana or the Renaissance/Baroque work of art Villa d’Este. Undoubtedly Villa d’Este features some of the most impressive water fountains in the world. Would you like to know more? There are exactly 479 reasons why you should consider visiting Villa d’Este.

Planning a trip to Italy? I have some location inspirations that you will LOVE!

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Salvation Islands, EVERYTHING you need to know for a perfect 2 days itinerary

South America and Caribbean • June 16, 2023

Once one of the most infamous prisons, the Salvation Islands are nowadays a small nature paradise. Many tourists explore every year while learning more about the history of French Guiana. If you are willing to spend a day or two enjoying pristine nature and beaches, this may be the perfect escape for you.

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Salvation Islands, EVERYTHING you need to know for a perfect 2 days itineraryRead More »

Salvation Islands, EVERYTHING you need to know for a perfect 2 days itinerary Read More »

Villa Reale di Marlia, 9 reasons you will love it

Europe • December 12, 2022

Tuscany is one of those regions where beauty is everywhere! It could be the pristine coasts of Isola d’Elba or the golden hills of Val d’Orcia. And if you are passionate about history how not to mention Florence and Pisa? However, today I’m going to talk to you about Tuscany’s best kept secret: Villa Reale di Marlia. A magnificent Villa from the 17th century that has one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy.

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Villa Reale di Marlia, 9 reasons you will love it Read More »

The cost of living in French Guiana in 2025 (from a local)

Expat Life • November 3, 2024

Life in French Guiana can be very exciting. The lifestyle is amazing. There is no traffic or pollution. Nature is everywhere offering astounding landscapes and possibilities for excursions. And there is no need for warm clothes, given that the lowest temperature goes around 20°, on VERY rare occasions. Even so, it isn’t all peaches and dandelions. In fact, the cost of living in French Guiana can be very high compared to other countries in South America. But exactly how expensive? In today’s blog post I’m going to break down the budget for living in French Guiana in 2025.

The Cost of living in French Guiana (2025 rates)

It is a common thought that life in South America is cheaper than in other regions of the world. Although that may be true, there is one exception to this rule: French Guiana.

But how is it possible for a small country of 300.000 inhabitants to be so expensive?

Firstly, French Guiana is not an independent country, but a region of France. That partly explains it, as the majority of products come mainly from Metropole (Mainland France). Dock dues, taxes, and transportation add to the bill increasing the prices. Secondly, since 1964, the construction of the Guiana Space Centre (that I absolutely recommend visiting) increased the economic growth until the 2000s, directly and indirectly by an average of 20%.

Accommodation, monthly average cost 750€ to 1500€

The prices differ from city to city, and of course, it depends also on the number of rooms the house/apartment will have. Let’s see more in detail.

Rent in Cayenne

Cayenne is the capital of French Guiana. Apartments are ideally situated in the historical center, nearby Place des Palmistes or in the newest area between Montabo and Zephir. The average monthly rent for apartments is:

Average Monthly Rent for an apartment

1 room about 50 m², 750€
2 rooms about 65 m², 900€

Average Monthly Rent for a house

4 rooms about 100 m², 1500€

Rent in Kourou

Due to the proximity to the Guiana Space Centre, rent in Kourou can be quite expensive, even more than Cayenne. The apartments, situated essentially in the central area, are called CV collectifs verticaux, vertical collective habitations. This type of apartment is really standard a surface between 70 and 80 m², one or two rooms max, although there are a few exceptions with 3 rooms. While you can find houses to rent all around the city, with the best (and most expensive) areas being quartier des Roches or quartier de Saint-Exupéry.

Average Monthly Rent for an apartment

1 room about 75 m², 800€
2 rooms about 80 m², 950€

Average Monthly Rent for a house

4 rooms about 120 m², 1800€

Transportation

In French Guiana the public transport system doesn’t exist, except for very few buses in Cayenne. That means you will be obliged to buy or rent (lease) a car. Or why not, a bike? Even though you should be aware of the random torrential rains during the rainy season.

Good to know: in French Guiana, the oil prices are fixed by the prefecture. The price you will find in every gas station, is the same in all the region.

Cost of gasoline/diesel :

Gasoline cost/liter 2,05€
Diesel cost/liter 1,98€

Cost for a second-hand car:

Peugeot 206 (year of production 1998 to 2012) – 3.000€
Clio IV (year of production 2012 to 2019) – 7.000€

Cost of a new car:

Peugeot 2008 – 30.000€
Clio V – 18.000€

Mobile & Internet

When it comes to the internet there aren’t a thousand options in French Guiana. In fact, the choice is reduced to two: Orange or SFR, with Orange being the most popular. I have to say that compared to Europe, internet speed is quite high, unfortunately, the price is high.

Monthly Internet fee:

Orange basic offer, 30€

Monthly Internet + Mobile fee:

Orange basic offe 30€
SFR basic offer, 40€

Food and Groceries

Food from supermarkets (like Super U and Carrefour) is coming from France, the dock dues apply and prices skyrocket fast. On the other hand, local products like fish and meat can be very cheap compared to European markets.

Food prices from the supermarkets

Item	Average cost
Water 1,5 l	1,20 €
Milk 1l	1,00 €
Bread, 1 baguette	0,80 €
Rice 1kg	2,25 €
Apples 1kg	3,50 €
Cigarettes for 1 pack	6,00 €

Food prices from the local markets

Item	Average cost
Eggs x6	2,20 €
Lemon 1kg	2,50 €
Banana 1kg	3,00 €
Pitaya 1kg	6,00 €
Salad 1kg	8,00 €
Tomatoes 1kg	6,00 €
Local fish 1kg	8,00 €
Local meat beef 1kg	20,00 €

Gas, electricity, and water

Despite the fact French Guiana is the 3rd country in the world in terms of freshwater availability, the price for tap water is 2,00 l/m3. To explain, that’s about the same price for tap water in Paris or Barcelona.

In addition, water is the main producer of electricity. Petit Saut‘s dam produces two-thirds of French Guiana’s needs. The price for 15 kVa is 188€ per year.

To conclude our list I have to mention gas. Unlike other countries that have a distribution system, gas is bottled and sold at gas stations. Just like oil these prices are established by the prefecture. Price for charging a bottle of 12,5 kg is 25€. To give you an idea of how that translates to your use: we cook almost 6/7 days at home 2 lunches per day + breakfast (tea and coffee), and our bottle last between 8 and 9 months.

Entertainment (sports and restaurants)

One of the best things about living in this region is the wide variety of sports and activities it offers. There are many choices, all quite budget-friendly. Doing sport is good for your health both physical and mental, and allows you to connect with more people around you. Don’t deprive yourself of it!

Cost of sports:

Fitness membership 30€/month
Volley club subscription 50€/year
Water aerobics 380€/year

The variety of restaurants in French Guiana is large, from Brazilian churrascarias to Vietnamese restaurants, without forgetting the excellent local food. The prices are quite high compared to other cities in France and also for the type of restaurant.

Cost of restaurants (main course + dessert + soft drinks):

Budget restaurants average cost 20€
Mid-range restaurants average cost 40-50€

Childcare

Obviously, I have to mention this as a mom. If it doesn’t interest you skip to the next headline where I sum up the budget 😉

When kids are 3 years old they start preschool which is free in France, but until then childcare can be very expensive. You have different options to choose from:

Kindergarten is a great solution for your kids as it allows them to socialize with many other babies. Although there is less flexibility in terms of time and schedules.
Shared nannies are also known as family kindergarten. These specialized nannies can keep up to 4 babies at the same time. There is more flexibility and kids can still socialize.
A private nanny is the most expensive solution but it has a completely customizable schedule, you have more control over your baby’s diet and you can sometimes negotiate some extras, like ironing clothes or preparing lunch for everyone.

Kindergarten average monthly cost: 650€

Shared nanny average monthly cost: 700€

Private nanny average monthly cost: 900 to 1.000€

Note: France refund part of these costs depending of you income as a family. For more info and eligibility head on Caf.fr. The website is in French only.

To sum up the cost of living in French Guiana in 2025

To conclude this post on the total expenses, I’ve made this table which resumes it all. These numbers are based on our experience as a couple and family, as well as that of our friends and colleagues.

	Average Monthly Cost
Accommodation for 1-2 persons	750 to 800 €
Accommodation for a family of 3-4	1300 to 1800€
Internet basic offer	30€
Food based on a family of 2	500€
Food based on a family of 4	800€
Utility bill	80€
Sport membership x1	30€
Childcare (babies and toddlers under 3)	700€

Total for 1-2 persons	1390€
Total for a family of 3-4	2940€

If you have any questions feel free to leave me a comment or write me on Instagram. I have already helped several people to move to French Guiana through individual interviews, don’t hesitate to write me!

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14 Awesome FREE Museums in London for your next trip

Europe • January 14, 2023

What’s better than an awesome museum? An awesome and free museum! In London, some of the most well-known world-class museums don’t charge their visitors for admission. The icing on the cake? They host some of the most incredible science, art, and history collections in the world. Be ready to take notes on the best free museums in London for your next trip!

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14 Awesome FREE Museums in London for your next tripRead More »

14 Awesome FREE Museums in London for your next trip Read More »

Author name: Anita Beyond the Sea

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