In the heart of French Guiana, there is a small village that is surrounded by plantations. It’s Cacao village, home to the Hmong community. Nestled in the hills, you can reach Cacao in two hours if you’re coming from Kourou or an hour from Cayenne. On Sunday you can get lost in a festival of colors and scents which is the local market, enjoy the traditional soup or taste the delicious Nam Van. And don’t forget to book your visit to the Insect museum, a showcase for some of the many species that live in the region.
Some History about Cacao
In the 70s due to the Asian wars (Vietnam and Indochina), the movement of refugees coming from those Asian regions grew exponentially. The French government welcomed about 10.000 refugees. In French Guiana, Cacao was the first area where Hmong settled. The government gave the lands to the community hoping they would develop agriculture, in a region that offers many challenges to cultivation.
Today Cacao is a village of fewer than 5.000 inhabitants that has a thriving economy based on farming.
Explore Cacao village: 5 activities you should do
1. Enjoy the view at Belvedere
On your way to the village have a stop and enjoy the view from the panoramic point. The canopy is immense! You can also have lunch at the restaurant Bellevue which is next to the parking. The cost of the menu is 32€.
If you’re a drone pilot you can also have some fun flying over the amazonian forest. It’s perfect for beginners as there are not many trees around or habitations, the take off and landing are way easier than in other points.
2. Visit the Insects Museum, Le planeur bleu
Mister Philippe awaits you with a warm welcome and its incredible collection. Covering Cacao’s history, the museum features objects of Hmong culture and also from French Guiana’s history. But the star of the Museum: Insects of course!
The association has an impressive collection of butterflies, moths, beetles, and arachnids. Both dead and alive. Philippe is an exceptional guide and he will introduce you to some of the alive inhabitants of his collection. The visit ends in a butterfly house that hosts many morphos and other diurnal butterflies.
You can visit the museum on Sunday from 9 AM to 1 PM or from 2 PM to 4 PM. Don’t forget to reserve your visit the moment you arrive at Cacao village as there is a high demand and a few places. On the other days you can visit upon reservation (+594 694 42 24 62). The ticket costs 5€ for adults and it’s free under 12 years.
3. Enjoy shopping at the local market, taste the soup and drink Nam Van
The local market which takes place every Sunday from 7 AM to 3 PM, is divided into two parts. The artisan market is a joy for the eyes. From the colored costumes and textiles crafts to the wooden jewelry, each piece is very beautiful. It’s situated nearby the museum of insects and it has an annexed carbet where you can eat the traditional soup.
On the opposite part of the city stands the fruit market. You can buy the local fruits and sometimes you can even find some rare fruits like Mangustans etc… If you’re not up for the soup (during the dry season that’s easily understandable), you can opt for the Asian street food which is sold under the big wooden carbet. Try the chicken or beef beignets, or the freshly made nems and samosas.
What you absolutely shouldn’t miss? The Nam Van (here the video of the preparation process). It’s a very dense drink made of tapioca pearls and coconut milk. It’s delicious and very filling!
Artisan markets colorsDrinking the Nam Van
4. Take part in the Rambutan Harvesting
Every year in April, Cacao farmers open their camps to whoever is willing to harvest Rambutans. This small red fruit which is very similar to litchis is very juicy and has a delicate taste. To enter there’s a small fee based on the number of bags you’re bringing in, and once inside you can stay all the time that you want. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, the trees cover much less than expected from the sun! And don’t forget to empty your fridge to stock your precious fruits.
5. Attend the Hmong New Year Celebrations
This major celebration is held at the end of the twelfth lunar calendar month. That usually occurs in November and It’s a time for traditional dances and workshops and in general, a time to relax and celebrate. The Hmong wears their folklore costumes and beautiful headpieces and dance till the end of the night. It’s the best occasion to buy traditional pieces and taste the local food.
Note: The village is very small and it gets difficult to find parking spots very fast. If you’re willing to attend the New Year Celebrations or the Rambutan Festival you should consider getting there early in the morning around 9 – 10 AM.
Notre Dame de la PaixHmong traditional costume for the New Year Celebrations
Are you interested in combining the visit to Cacao village with other excursions? Continue your reading in the French Guiana section.
Paramaribo is the capital of the smallest state in South America, Suriname. Similarly to French Guiana, the Amazonian rain forest covers almost entirely its territory (80%). Paramaribo’s charm is given by the different people that cohabit in the city. Since the first Dutch settlement in early 1600, many cultures have enlarged Paramaribo’s borders. In addition to its historical heritage, the city also offers a culinary experience thanks to all the different nationalities.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Paramaribo’s fort was originally a wooden construction that French colons built in 1640. The Dutch conquered it in 1667 and changed its name to Fort Zeelandia. Through the years, the fort became obsolete, until in 1972 it became the home to the Surinaams Museum.
During the military revolution in 1980, the museum became a prison for political opponents. Nowadays, it hosts the Surinaams Museum and a permanent exhibit of reconstructions of an old apothecary shop, a cobbler’s shop, and a prison cell in its original state.
Our experience: The museum is very interesting. It showcases Paramaribo and Suriname’s history. Not to mention the view from the top is very nice, giving both on the city and Fort Zeelandia.
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral
Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral is the largest wooden building in the Western Hemisphere. This Roman Catholic cathedral is 60 meters (194 ft) long and 44 meters (144 ft) high. The decoration on the inside is quite simple and pure, but the carving work is very accurate and rich.
However, what will catch your eye is the use of different kinds of wood, which brings out the colors in an original way. It’s also one of the greenest cathedrals I have ever been to, so many plants decorate the hall.
Mama Sranan Statue and the Presidential Palace
One of the things that surprised me the most about Suriname is its multi-ethnicity. Starting from the 17th century, Suriname’s first inhabitants, the Arawak people, met many different colonizers. Slaves from Africa were also introduced to the country. And last, the Javanese people, who later became the most present ethnicity in the country.
Mama Sranan statue perfectly honors the mix of traditions and cultures. In fact, the translation of the statue’s name is Mother Suriname. Just near the presidential palace, the statue represents a mother embracing her children. Each one of the children is one of the different ethnicities that inhabits Suriname.
The presidential palace is the symbol of Surinamese independence in 1975. This building is also a beautiful showcase of colonial architecture.
Neveh Shalom Synagogue, Arya Dewaker and Mosque Keizerstraat
They are a symbol of Suriname’s multiculturalism. The Synagogue, the Hindu Temple, and the Mosque represent some of the main religions that are practiced there.
The Synagogue is the most ancient of the three buildings. The first construction goes back to the 18th century. It was completely rebuilt in 1842, and it also hosts a small museum about the history of the Jews in Suriname. The Mosque was built in 1932, while Arya Dewaker in 2001.
Enjoy the food
Paramaribo is a food crossroad. You have the choice among many different cuisines. What we loved the most:
Dutch meatballs are so tasty! They are made of beef and pork meat. Fried or in the oven, both versions are simply delicious!
Javanese cuisine is one of my favorites. But unless you’re used to eating Javanese, Mexican, or Korean spicy food, do NOT ask for spicy. It’s like fire. And you won’t even enjoy your lunch.
Dutch crepes are simply delicious, and you can taste them with many different fillings.
Podosiri, made from Acai palm fruit is eaten with rice or cassava bread.
Samosas were among the tastiest things I ate in Paramaribo. Coming from the Indian tradition, they’re mostly served as appetizers. And to go with almost every meal we had.
And how not to mention Parbo! Surinamese beer is the solo star among drinks, controlling 80% of the beer market in Suriname.
A night out at Paramaribo Casinos
I don’t want to do a Casino advertisement and please remember that gambling is addicting. But you can have some fun at one of the many casinos in Paramaribo. We played a little at different games. We won and we lost and we had fun. And that’s all, a once-in-a-decade experience that has its amount of fun. And you have free drinks and live music while playing.
Best time to visit
Suriname is right above the equator. Because of that, it has a rainy season going from December to July, and a dry season from July to December. Unless you don’t want the risk of being caught in torrential rains the best time to visit is during the dry season.
September and October are the warmest and sunniest months. But sometimes the temperatures get very high. My advice is to go for August and November instead. The rainfall frequency is still low and temperatures are better.
Currency and prices
Suriname’s currency is the Surinamese dollar. Since the economic crisis in September 2020, the exchange rate has been very low. In the capital, you can eat at many restaurants for a few dollars. Hotel prices are also low compared to other capitals. You can stay at luxury hotels for under 200 $/€.
Where to stay
There are plenty of choices on Booking. We stayed at Royal Torarica which is very close to the center and all the restaurants on the river.
Fun fact about Suriname: the independent state has only one cinema, but in Paramaribo, there are more than 30 casinos. It’s quite surprising when you arrive, slots are everywhere.
It’s South America’s Las Vegas.
How to get there and Visas
If you’re coming from French Guiana, you will have to take the road to Saint Laurent du Maroni. Once arrived, you can leave your car at one of the guarded parking spaces. I recommend you do this as your car may be damaged or stolen, even if you leave it for a short amount of time.
Your next step will be to take the pirogue on the Maroni river to Albina, on the other side.
Congratulations you’ve made it to Suriname!
Now the funniest part of your trip begins with taxi hunting. Every day there are many taxi waiting for tourists or workers to go to Paramaribo. The only drawback is they will want to fill their taxis capacity, usually between 6 and 8 people. You have two choices: you can wait, sometimes even an hour. Or book a taxi for yourself. You could also try to negotiate by adding the return journey. Once your driver is ready, you’ll have 2 more hours on the road to Paramaribo.
If you’re coming from another destination, you can check the best flight to join Paramaribo airport. It is very well-served, and close to the city.
You can get a tourist visa to enter Suriname, which will allow you to stay up to 90 days. It’s useful if you want to visit other countries in South America.
Is it safe?
Suriname is a very poor country and unfortunately, there are many homeless in the streets. But the crime rate is very low. So yes, it is safe, as long as you stay on the touristy path and don’t venture too much into unsafe areas. And remember to mind your bag in crowded places.
Paramaribo has a unique charm. It’s rare to see such a mix of cultures and traditions in a small city of only 300.000 inhabitants. Hence, I think it would be a great addition to your South America itinerary. If you are planning to make it part of a larger itinerary, check all the activities you can do in neighboring French Guiana.
French Guiana has one of the richest fauna and flora densities in the world. Its surface is almost entirely covered by the Amazonian rain forest. It’s a basin of life. Unfortunately, the high density of plants and trees makes it difficult to observe animals in their natural habitat. Home to more than 75 species, the French Guiana zoo is a beautiful showcase of the fauna that populates this wild region of France.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
The zoo is situated nearby Macouria. If you’re coming from Cayenne on RN1 you have to take the road on the left right after the VITO gas station. While from Kourou It’s on your right once you passed by Macouria. You then have 10 more minutes on the road.
Things you should know before your visit
Would you like to see a caiman running for its lunch? Or a jaguar’s jaws in action? French Guiana Zoo shows the feeding of some animals during the opening hours. Down below you can find the calendar. Note that due to meteorological conditions or other external events the feedings may change schedule.
JAGUAR, PUMA and other CATS: Every day at 10 AM. TAPIR: Wednesday at 3 PM. CAIMANS: Saturday at 3 PM.
The zoo is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5.30 PM. There is a small shop that sells fresh sodas and drinks but there is no restaurant. The site is shaded overall. For this reason, there may be mosquitoes in some areas, bring insect repellent If you wish. Although I survived just fine without ever using it till now.
If you are visiting during the rainy season don’t forget a poncho or rain coat. In the forest torrential rains are sudden and frequent.
Along with these tips, remember not to leave the zoo’s track. There are many ponds next to the track, some of them hosts wild caimans. Naturally the zoo keepers keep them under surveillance, but I wouldn’t venture too much anyway.
For more information about schedule and events check the Zoo’s website.
Explore French Guiana Zoo: What to expect
Animals and much more! Along the 2.500 km path that brings you through the zoo, you’ll see many different plants and trees. Some of them are directly from the rainforest.
There’s also a canopy walk 400 meters long. You can walk among the trees, and if you are lucky you’ll meet wild monkeys. But be aware that they are some expert thieves and will not hesitate to take your food or small object they can catch! In fact it is official forbidden to feed them, even so you will see many people giving them snacks or fruits. Kindly remind them if you have the chance, with time, the colony may get more aggressive.
The zoo has also an aviary. You can walk in the middle of red ibis, just be careful when passing under their nests. You never know what may be dropped on you!
Did you know? The Zoo is a sanctuary for wounded animals who are found in Nature, or animals that were born with an handicap. For this reason, you may notice that some of the animals are limping or not looking in their best shape.
You can download the zoo’s map. And don’t forget to ↓ check out our virtual tour ↓
How long does the visit lasts?
The visit lasts between 2 and 3 hours. And that means you can add more stops to your trip! Check out the map to arrive and you will find 3 great activities you can add to your day trip:
The Annamites prisons camp
Witnessing French Guiana’s past as a prison the Annamites prisons camp is an easy trail that ends in a creek where you can bathe and relax. Along the way, you can also visit the remains of the ancient structures that were once prisons.
Did you know? There is another Annamites prison camp nearby Petit Saut dam.
See French Guiana from above
At Montsinery Hydro base you can fly over the Montsinery river and its surroundings. See French Guiana from a bird’s view. An amazing not to be missed experience!
Bathe in the quite waters of Crique Patate
Crique Patate is a lovely beautiful creek to have a picnic or chill in the beautiful waters. During the rain season it is quite difficult to get there as the short dirt road that lead you there gets very muddy. Also if you have the chance visit it during the week as there are less people and it’s more quiet.
In conclusion is French Guiana’s Zoo worth visiting?
Yes! Seeing animals in their natural habitat in French Guiana is difficult because of the density of the Amazonian Forest. The zoo is a very nice and respectful way to observe the fauna in ideal conditions. Are you still looking for more inspiration? I’ll give you all the reasons why you should add French Guiana to your bucket list. And don’t forget to check our French Guiana page for more activities.
Is French Guiana worth visiting? Since I moved here 11 years ago, that has been in my FAQ every time I go back home. The truth is, French Guiana is a very special and unknown travel destination. Every year it attracts only about 10,000 tourists, to give you an idea, Paris attracts 50 million every year. So the natural question is, why French Guiana? Without no further ado, let me show you why you should add this destination to your travel bucket list.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Limitless forests, endless rivers, and an impressive abundance of wildlife. French Guiana is a paradise for nature lovers. And not only! In fact, French Guiana is well known by space insiders as it’s home to Europe’s spaceport, the CSG (Centre Spatial Guyanais). And travel adventurers will find their joy in exploring the ruins of the prison camps that were active for a century, from 1850 to 1950. Let’s see more in detail.
Hike in the forest
The Amazonian rain forest covers 96% of French Guiana’s surface. The incredible density of the forest makes it difficult to spot animals in their natural habitat, so don’t expect an African safari. Nevertheless, walking in the Amazonia forest is still an incredible experience.
You can observe an impressive variety of flora. And you still may be lucky and spot insects, snakes, and some small animals like capybara, cabiai, and also beautiful birds like parrots, macaws, and toucans or hear the extraordinary voice of the screaming piha.
There is a large variety of excursions you can plan in the forest. Some have easy access, like the Rorota trail, the Monkey Mountain, and the Annamites prisons. While to explore some others, you will have to book a reservation. That often includes transportation on the pirogue, lunches, and a night’s stay: Camp Cisame, Marées de Kaw and Camp Canopée, are among the most famous.
Visit the Centre Spatial Guyanais, Europe’s Spaceport
Space geek or not, the Centre Spatial Guyanais won’t leave you indifferent. The huge Ariane 5 statue waiting for you at the museum is worth the visit alone. Also together with Tanegashima the Guiana Space Center is the only Space base that allows you to visit an active launchpad. The tour lasts 3 hours and it’s completely free. Sometimes, due to operational activities, the route may be altered.
You can reserve your visit through theCentre Spatial Guyanais website. Even though the site is only in French, the tour guides are bilingual and very friendly. Also, an English pamphlet is provided. If the stars align, you may also have the unique chance to attend a rocket launch. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. Make sure to check the calendar of the upcoming flights and book your free experience.
Sail along the Salvation Islands
Follow the steps of Papillon and visit the Salvation Islands. This small group of three islands has been an active prison for a hundred years (from 1852 to 1953). Among his most famous prisoners, Henry Charrière, known as Papillon, and Captain Alfred Dreyfus, who was detained on Devil’s Island. You can book your boat ride viaLa Hulotte or ProMaritime.
There is the possibility to spend the night on the island, if you book a room in the Guyane hotel, or you can reserve one of the ancient guardians’ houses. Both accommodations are on the Ile Royale, the biggest island.
The ruins of the camp prisons are mainly on the Royal Island. It also hosts the ancient church, the hospital, the guardians’ houses, and the cemetery. Information panels are all over the islands so that you can enjoy your tour as if you were with a guide. You can visit Saint Joseph’s Island as well. Buy the ticket with La Hulotte or ProMaritime. On this smaller island, you’ll find a section of secluded cells, where the most dangerous prisoners were detained.
Do you want to know everything about the Salvation Islands? Thanks to my multiple trips to French Guiana’s secret paradise, I wrote the complete travel guide to the Salvation Islands.
Observe turtles nesting and emergencies at Les Hattes beach
Leatherback, Green, and Olive ridley sea turtles come back every year to nest on French Guiana’s coasts. You can observe them from April to June. Every species has its own nesting period, but during these months you have the most chance to observe the 3 species. My advice is to book a night at Awala Yalimapo’s village so that you can be ready for their arrival.
Turtles come 3 hours before the high tide, so it’s easier for them to regain the ocean after laying the eggs. Emergencies occur between August and October. The babies come out of their warm shelter to dive directly into the sea.
Some precautions you must take when visiting: don’t interfere in any way, don’t touch the turtles, and if you’re visiting at night, use a RED headlamp. The turtles may lose their orientation as they will think it’s the moon. It has already happened that a turtle has been found close to the route because she was attired by the car lights.
↓ Still got questions? Ask them in our Facebook community! ↓
Enjoy the Carnival’s Parade
Carnival in French Guiana is one of the most important festivities. The Carnival is a mix of many different styles and cultures. The proximity to Brazil influences the beautiful samba dancer’s costumes.
While Touloulous and Tololos from the local tradition are dressed to impress with their full costumes, that cover everything. Hair included. Some groups came from Martinique and Guadaloupe to try to win the big prize.
The parades take part from January till the end of February. Every weekend, the parade takes part in a new town, creating a kind of climax to Cayenne’s Grand Parade. The Parades take part in the main avenues, which are very often decorated for the occasion with the colors of the Carnival. Every year, two colors are chosen to become the main theme the groups should use in their costumes.
Visit French Guiana’s zoo
French Guiana zoo is one of the best zoos I had the chance to visit. It stays true to the local fauna by hosting only animals that are present in this region. Moreover, the animals they keep in the zoo are saved from illegal owners, are wounded or suffer from a handicap.
The visit lasts 3 hours If you take it comfortably. The park features reptilians, felines, birds, and mammals. Since the zoo has been built in a savanna, there’s also a short path that goes inside the forest. If you are lucky, you can spot wild monkeys that will come to you for food.
At the end of the walk, you can enter a beautiful aviary, home to red ibis. You can see them nesting above your head, or sneaking between bushes. There is also a nice shop for plush lovers. The ticket price is 20$ (18,50€) for adults. Infants under 3 don’t pay and kids between 3 and 12 pay 14$ (13€).
Best time to visit
French Guiana is between Brazil and Suriname. That means it’s almost on the equatorial line. As such, the climate is marked by a rainy season going from mid-November to mid-June, and a dry season from mid-June to mid-November. The humidity on the other hand is very high all year long (around 80%). First timers are always surprised by the constant feeling of having water on their skin.
Long story short, when it comes to booking your tickets, the best season is the dry season. September and October are the warmest and sunniest months. But sometimes the temperatures get very high. My advice is to visit in August or November instead. The rainfall frequency is still low and temperatures are better.
Note: when choosing the perfect time to visit French Guiana, check out our blog post to get a better idea. There are still many good reasons to visit during the rainy season. In addition to the rain and temperatures, it also takes into account seasonal events, such as sea turtles nesting and French Guiana’s Carnival.
Currency and prices
The Euro is the local currency as French Guiana is part of France. In general, life costs are high. For an average restaurant, you’ll spend between 20 and 30 dollars/euros. Hotels also have high prices, starting from 85$ (80€) for basic rooms. The reason is mostly all the materials and products come from France, which means additional taxes and transportation costs.
French Guiana has direct flights to Paris, Fort de France (Martinique), Point à Pitre (Guadalupe), and Belem (Brazil), that are operated by Air Franceand Air Caraibes.
When booking your flight, consider French Guiana as part of a larger itinerary, which may bring you to the Caribbeans or Brazil. That way you’ll make full use of your ticket, which is quite expensive! A return ticket from Paris to Cayenne is between 800 and 1000 $/€. Another tip is to subscribe to Air France and Air Caraibes’ dedicated newsletters to find the best deals and promotions. Sometimes, during promotions, the tickets may cost “only” 600 or 700 $/€.
Is it a safe country?
I answered this question in a dedicated blog post, but undoubtedly, French Guiana is a safe country for travel. Of course, in Cayenne, just like other big cities, there are some areas you should avoid. Although generally, these zones are far from the center and the main attractions. Also, it’s better to avoid isolated areas at night and especially beaches. Otherwise, mind your bag when in crowded places as there may be pickpockets around you.
By now I’m guessing you’ve already eyed an activity or two you don’t want to miss. Nevertheless, if I haven’t convinced you yet, you can find more inspiration among the different experiences on our French Guiana’s page or join our lovely Facebook community. Would you like to know more French Guiana fun facts? I’ll give you 10 you didn’t know!
Rio De Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. White sand beaches, crystalline waters, landmarks attractions, and a lively cultural life, la Cidade Maravilhosa has them all. There are MANY things to see. This 1-day itinerary will let you discover the hidden treasures of Rio De Janeiro architecture in the city center.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
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Where to find the architectural gems in Rio de Janeiro center
The easiest way to explore the hidden gems from the city center is to follow the itinerary below.
For lunch I highly recommend you stop at Confeitaria Colombo. Although, if you want to save some money you can also have lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area nearby. Note that all are pretty expensive anyways as it is one of the richest areas in Rio de Janeiro.
Museum of Tomorrow, Neo-Futuristic
Start your architecture immersion from the Museum of Tomorrow. If you are here, I guess you are an architecture lover. Therefore, I bet I don’t need to tell you who is the brilliant mind behind the skeleton (isn’t the bell ringing already?), that hosts the visionary museum of Tomorrow.
Santiago Calatrava designed this amazing structure for the port area renewal before the 2016 Olympic Games. The building opened to the public in December 2015.
The museum focuses on sustainability and the ecological world. And conceive all the possibilities for constructing the future in an eco-friendly way.
The entrance fee is about 5€.
Mosteiro de Sao Bento, exterior: Early Colonial, interior: Baroque
In 1590, a group of monks came from Salvador de Bahia to fund a new monastery in Rio de Janeiro. The works on Sao Bento monastery started but they ended only in 1755.
Mosteiro de Sao Bento is on a hill, that has a nice view of Rio’s bay. In fact, I took the photo of the Museum of Tomorrow above Sao Bento’s hill. The building was built in an early colonial style. Although the exteriors are very clean and minimalist, the interiors have been decorated in Baroque.
Nowadays the abbey is still operational. When visiting remember to be respectful. The entrance is free.
Confeitaria Colombo, Art Nouveau
Following our steps, it’s lunchtime! And what better place than the historical Confeitaria Colombo?! The Cafe is one of the oldest restaurants in Rio de Janeiro. Founded in 1894, it offers an immersion in the Belle Epoque. The glasses and mirrors were added during its renovation between 1912 and 1918.
The place is always very packed and touristy but honestly, it’s worth the hype. The food is excellent. We chose the buffet formula, and the choice was very large. Our extra tip: visit on a weekday, it’s usually less crowded and you can enjoy some shopping in the area around.
Theatro Municipal and Cinelandia, Art Nouveau
When wandering in the city center there’s a square you must stop by. It’s Praça Floriano Pleixoto. Better known locally as Cinelandia, this area showcases some of the most impressive buildings in Rio De Janeiro. During the early decades of the 20th century, the municipality built many palaces in that specific district following the Parisian style. Similarly, Confeitaria Colombo was inspired by Art Nouveau.
Metropolitana Cathedral, Modernist
The last stop of our walk is the very original Metropolitana Cathedral. The structure is inspired by Mayan pyramids and was completed in 1979. The building is 75 meters high and has a capacity of 20.000 people.
Four rectilinear stained-glass decors the interior, with each color having a different meaning. Green represents the element of the unity of the church. Holy, in red, concerns the qualities of the Church. Catholic, in blue, refers to the Church’s mission to save men. Apostolic, in yellow, alludes to the hierarchy of the Catholic Church.
Rio De Janeiro architecture, honorable mentions:
The itinerary of the city center is over but… I could not end this list without mentioning two more attractions that you should visit as an architecture lover. Let’s see them.
Christ The Redeemer, Art Deco
Did you know that the Christ the Redeemer statue is the largest art deco statue in the world? Given its particular location, on Corcovado Mountain, its construction lasted 5 years between 1926 and 1931. In 2007, the 30 meters giant became one of the new wonders of the world.
To reach the Corcovado peak and the Christ the Redeemer, you can take the Corcovado Train which brings you to the top in 20 minutes. I took it both times I’ve visited and it’s a unique ride with a beautiful view over the city. Otherwise, you can also climb your way to the top of the trail. Normally it should take you about 1 hour and a half.
Did you know? There are two similar statues to the Christ the Redeemer in the world. The first is the Monumento a Cristo Rey in Cali (26 meters high), while the second is Santuário Nacional de Cristo Rei (28 meters high). Both statues were inspired by Christ de Redeemer.
Museum of Contemporary Art, Modern Architecture
The MAC is situated in Niteroi and has a unique structure that reminds a UFO. Architect Oscar Niemeyer built it between 1991 and 1996. The Museum hosts a very large contemporary art collection.
The Museum’s location is Niteroi, which is quite far from other attractions. If you are considering visiting, you may add also the Boa Viagem beach to your itinerary which is very close to the Museum entrance.
Altogether, which one would you like to visit the most?
Among all these architectural landmarks which one would you like to visit the most? For me it’s probably the buildings in Cinelandia Square, it’s quite confusing to see so many Baroque buildings surrounded by modern skyscrapers!
Rio De Janeiro has been on top of my travel bucket list for years. When I finally got there let me say that everything I imagined exceeded my expectations! La Cidade Maravilhosa is truly unique and it has so many activities and things to see, from classical sightseeing to more adventurous excursions. So without further ado let’s see your final guide to the best things to do in Rio De Janeiro, based on a 4 days itinerary.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Note: when going through the guide, consider half a day to do each activity that is listed.
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Take the Gondola Ride up to the Sugarloaf Mountain
When I visited Rio the first time, there was only one thing I was sure I wanted to do: visit the Sugarloaf Mountain. It wasn’t disappointing! The Pao de Açucar has one of the most breathtaking views of the amazing city of Rio de Janeiro. Situated in the heart of the city you can enjoy many different views of the surrounding hills, beaches, and Niteroi.
As one of the main attractions in Rio de Janeiro, the line to buy the tickets is very long and may take even a few hours. You can buy the ticket online at no extra cost. Although, if you are willing totake the fast lineyou can buy the ticket for about double the price.
If you are willing to go at sunset (the view and colors are beautiful!), don’t forget to check the hours of the gondola. These are the official hours, but they may change:
LAST RIDE UP: Praia Vermelha / Urca Hill at 8 pm. Urca Hill / Sugar Loaf at 8:20 pm. LAST RIDE DOWN: Sugar Loaf / Urca Hill at 8:40 pm. Urca Hill / Praia Vermelha at 9 pm.
Did you know that Christ the Redeemer is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World? This impressive statue is a must-see attraction in Rio de Janeiro and one of South America’s most famous landmarks.
The statue is situated on the Corcovado one of the hills surrounding Rio. To conquer the top, you can book a bus ticket, or you can choose the Train which climbs to the top in about 20 minutes. I took the train both time I have visited, and the view is great even long before you reach the top!
Are you a hiker? There is a trek that crosses the forest on Corcovado Mountain and goes up to the Christ the Redeemer statue. The hiking starts in Parque Lage and takes about 2 hours to complete. If you are lucky, you may even see monkeys while walking in the forest. Just don’t forget to bring water! The walk is quite long and depending on the temperatures you may dehydrate very fast.
Weather transport you choose once arrived, the entrance is between 20 and 25 € depending on the season. Once you get your ticket you can finally get the access to the observation deck, after climbing the last 223 steps.
I bet that when you booked your Rio trip (or if you’re still planning it), you were already dreaming of sunbathing on two of the most famous Brazilian beaches: Copacabana and Ipanema. With the white sand, skyscrapers on the beach front, and coconut water kiosks, the beaches are one of the main touristic attractions in Rio attiring millions every year.
One of the coolest things to do in Rio is rent a beach chair and an umbrella, and simply sunbathe or dive in the blue water. But watch out for waves as the shore break may be dangerous. Otherwise, enjoy your time and don’t be shy to ask people if you can join their soccer or volley match, they are very friendly in general.
Wander in Jardim Botanico (the botanical gardens)
These beautiful gardens name a whole southwestern area and run on many kilometers. The most interesting thing about Jardim Botanico is the number of species it has. Not only species from the state of Rio de Janeiro but also from many other regions of the world.
House to over 6,500 species of plants it is one of the lushest places in Rio! You can take a guided tour or have a walk through the many sections including the Orchid House, Amazon Garden, Sensory Garden, Japanese Garden, and also a series of small exhibits and museum spaces to enjoy.
If you have a little time you may skip it, but as a passionate photographer I loved wandering in the park while taking pictures of every flower and animal I saw.
Visit Santa Teresa neighborhood
One of the most known neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro is Santa Teresa. Home to many art galleries and studios, this area adds a chic and bohemian touch to the already wonderful Cidade Maravilhosa.
When visiting you can take a ride on the typical Santa Teresa Tram which is a modern replica of the old tramcars. Otherwise, get lost in the narrow roads but don’t forget to visit the amazing Selaron stairs from Chilean-born artist José Selaron.
Get off the beaten path at Praia Vermelha
Praia Vermelha (or the Red Beach) is situated on the foothills of Pao de Acucar (Sugarloaf Mountain.) It is a small and quiet beach that has access to an exclusive sporting club. The view is great and there aren’t many tourists. The Red Beach gets its name from the reddish rocks that surround the shore.
You can have a glimpse of Praia Vermelha when you are on the Sugarloaf. It’s the second beach on the left when you are facing the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Little Extra: Celebrate New Year’s Eve
One of the most exciting things to do in Rio de Janeiro and a bucket list experience as well, is to enjoy the festive celebrations of Copacabana New Year’s Eve. The prices skyrocket and the city is very crowded but if you are in the mood for a big party, you should definitely plan your stay this time of the year!
Don’t forget to wear white, as it brings good luck! You can also complete your outfit with an accessory depending on what are your wishes for the New Year. Put a red flower in your hair for romance, braid a green leaf crown for a healthy year or wear a yellow belt if you are hoping for money and success.
Start the evening by doing a flower offering to the sea goddess Lemanja in the less crowded beach of Leblon.
After you have left your hopes and resolutions in the hands of the Ocean, you can reach Copacabana beach and the 2 million tourists joining the legendary party every year. The fireworks last about 20 minutes and are one of the best and most known pyrotechnic shows in the world. Completing the beautiful and shiny picture the many cruise boats get close to the coast to enjoy the fireworks within the bay.
Add it to your list now! It’s one of the most spectacular cities in the world. In number of attractions, atmosphere, and natural wonders. I mean have you ever seen the pictures of Guanabara Bay?!
Last but not least, if you are an architecture lover you may be interested in our1-day itinerary, discovering architectural hidden gems in Rio de Janeiro city center. And to bring your Rio de Janeiro exploration to new heights check out the best Rio de Janeiro helicopter tours! Are you preparing your itinerary to Brazil? Check out our best things to do in Brazil!
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On our one week itinerary on the Island of Flowers, we visited Martinique Zoo and the Latouche dwelling on our 5 days vacation in Martinique. At first, we were quite skeptical to go. Coming from French Guiana which has the most amazing and eco-friendly zoo I have ever visited. We almost skipped it to enjoy one more day on one of Martinique’s amazing beaches. But Martinique’s zoo is much more than a simple zoo! Latouche was an ancient rum distillery with so much history. Furthermore, the zoo has an amazing garden with so many nice locations.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Planning a trip to Martinique? Save money and time with the best companies!
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How to arrive at Latouche Dwelling
Situated in the Northwest of the island, Martinique Zoo is nearby Saint Pierre, a small fisherman’s village. It’s also very close to Mount Pelée, Martinique’s active volcano.
You can combine a 4 hour hike on the beautiful Pelée Mountain (note it’s a moderate-expert trail), to the afternoon in Martinique Zoo after a lunch stop to eat delicious fish and sea food in Saint Pierre village.
Depending on how much time you have for visiting, I recommend you book the nature pass for both the Martinique Zoo and Balata’s Garden to have a reduction. If you book the nature pass you will a small reduction on the global price. You can buy the e-tickets or check the prices here.
If you are a nature lover, both destinations are worth visiting. So don’t hesitate If you have enough time. You can consider half a day for exploring each destination.
Some History
The zoo runs in the Latouche dwelling, an ancient rum distillery, that is also one of the oldest habitations in Martinique. Its construction goes back to 1643. Back at that time, it was the property of Captain Latouche. For many years the dwelling was active as an indigo and manioc workshop, but also as a sugar and rum distillery.
In 1902 Mount Pelée erupted, generating one of the deadliest volcanic eruptions ever recorded in human history. Just like many other constructions around the area the Latouche property was severely damaged.
Today the few standing walls have been secured, and you can safely walk through the ruins of the ancient buildings.
What to expect from your visit to the Martinique Zoo
You will start your walk in the ruins of the ancient Latouche house. The path runs into the park to the remains of the machines used to transform sugar and rum. Inside the same structure, there is also a butterfly house. Once you are past the remains of the distillery building. You will find yourself in a huge aviary that hosts parrots, crowned cranes, red ibis, and flamingos.
The Martinique Zoo ends in a modern wooden house that has been turned into a museum. Inside, some objects and panels tell the history of the island, but also about piracy in the surrounding waters. It has also some pirate statues and silhouettes to amuse kids… or adults!
You can prepare for your visit via the Martinique Zoo website. Additionally, you can also book your tickets in advance, including the Pass Nature, if you are willing to visit Balata’s garden.
This picture was took inside Balata Garden
Is it worth visiting Martinique Zoo and Latouche Dwelling?
Absolutely! Even if I know you may be tempted to ditch it to spend another day on one of Martinique’s incredible beaches, you should visit Martinique Zoo and Latouche Dwelling. Especially if you are interested to learn more about the rum’s distillation process. Lacking inspiration for you Martinique itinerary? Check out ours based on a one week stay.
If you are looking for more tropical adventures, you may be interested in reading our French Guiana section. Otherwise, you may find the perfect inspiration in other destinations from all around the world.
Camp Cisame is one of the best carbet I have ever visited in French Guiana. The location is idyllic, the food is delicious, and last but not least you can test your luck and search for gold in the river, or even see poisonous snakes in the forest. Tempted to visit but don’t know what to expect? Check out our experience there.
What is a carbet? It’s a wooden structure with a roof where you can hang your hammock. They are very common in tropical areas and there many people who live inside these wooden houses all around the world. When visiting French Guiana you will see many along the rivers.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Planning a trip to French Guiana? Save money and time with the best companies!
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How to arrive
Camp Cisame is on the Approuague river, one of the largest rivers in the region. When you book your stay the pirogue transport is included. The meeting point with your hosts is at Regina’s dock, about 3 hours from Kourou (and Europe’s Space Center) and 2 hours from Cayenne.
From there you will embark on a pirogue for a 2-hour trip. Depending on the season, your navigation can be more or less calm, because of the water level.
Best time to visit Camp Cisame
When we visited in August, there was a moment when some of us had to get in the water to help the pirogue get past the rocks. During the rainy season, the water level is much higher, but you will risk having rainy days. And your walks in the forest may be very muddy!
For these reasons, when planning your stay, I’d recommend you go during the dry season. The weather is better for all your outdoor activities.
The must-try-activities in Camp Cisame
All the activities are included in the forfait you pay when booking, if you are in the mood for a walk you can always ditch the guided excursions to relax on the riverside or read a book.
Hike into the forest or descent the river transported by the flow
What’s more adventurous than a walk in the Amazonian rain forest? In Camp Cisame you may choose between two different hikes.
The first is a short walk in the forest, that lasts about 40 minutes and ends on the Approuague’s riverside. To go back to the camp, you are equipped with a life jacket, and you start your descent transported by the river’s current. It’s indeed a unique experience! You can choose either to swim or just chill and descent the river transported by the flow.
The second path is a circular trek inside the rain forest. On your walk, the guide will show you and explain the characteristics of the various plants and trees, or occasionally insects and animals on your path. For example, the amazing lance head we have almost stepped on. This viper is highly venomous, so forgive me for the quality of the photo, I was quite nervous while taking the shot!
Lance head spotted nearby Camp Cisame
Relax, meditate or fish
Inside Camp Cisame there is a carbet dedicated to relaxing. There you can sip drinks at 5 pm (French Guiana’s cocktail hour), read a book, or play shuffleboard against your partner, it’s more difficult than it looks.
Also, don’t forget to bring your fishing rod. It’s relaxing to spend a few hours on the dock, and you may fish for dinner!
Test your luck and skills in gold digging
This is undoubtedly the most exciting (and if you are VERY lucky profitable) activity you can do in Camp Cisame. So, without hesitating take the gold panning and go search in the small stream behind the carbets.
I filled a small bottle of dirt and a tiny minuscule gold particle, and I’m absolutely proud of it! But I know a friend who found a little gold nugget. Test your luck, it’s really funny. Although you should be careful with your back, as the position to filter water isn’t the most comfortable.
The food
I can’t talk about Camp Cisame without mentioning the food. It is truly delicious!
The appetizers called accras, fried fish beignets, are so good you will almost wish they were the main course. The fish is freshly taken from the river and the side dishes are very abundant and good! The drinks are very good as well. There are freshly made juices or rum flavored with local fruits and aromatic plants.
If you are visiting French Guiana, consider spending at least 2 days at Camp Cisame. The nights in the Amazonian Forest are magical, although first timers will not sleep well. And you may also hear howler monkeys at dawn!
So, do I recommend you visit Camp Cisame? Absolutely! If you want to book your stay you can do it through the official Camp Cisame Facebook page. Have I triggered your curiosity in discovering French Guiana? Check out our top 6 reasons to why French Guiana should be on your bucket list.
Are you looking for an elegant and authentic accommodation when staying in Cayenne? Hotel Ker Alberte may be the perfect solution for you. This charming creole colonial house has been renewed into a modern hotel. We had the chance to spend a night there and we loved it! Let’s see if you will love it too.
Disclosure: anitabeyondthesea.com is reader-supported. When you make a reservation through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. That will help me keep the blog up and running. Thank you!
Note: This is NOT a sponsored blog post. It is an honest review of the location I have visited and stayed in. I have not received any payment for writing this blog post and I payed for my stay.
Planning a trip to French Guiana? Save money and time with the best companies!
✈️ Find the best flight deals on Skyscanner. 🏨 Looking for an accommodation? Booking is the place to go! 🎡 Add more emotions to your trip with GetYourGuide and Viator. 🚗 Need a car for your trip? Book the best one with Discover Cars. 📱 Avoid losing your connection by buying an eSim from Airalo.
How to arrive at Hotel Ker Alberte
Situated between the fruit’s market and the city’s Fort, Hotel Ker Alberte is in the ancient part of Cayenne. It’s very close to the Place desPalmistes, where you can find the famous bar de Palmistes. And a few minutes away from all the shops in the center. It’s close also to several nature spots like the Rorota Trail and a few of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
The hotel does not have a private parking, but there is enough place just in front of the entrance, and security controls it overnight so you don’t have to worry about your car.
The building
The construction is over a hundred years old, and it has the unique charm of colonial buildings. From the entrance, you can see a sneak peek of the garden which includes many varieties of tropical plants.
Once inside, the entrance is very cosy, and has steampunk vibes. The large hall is divided into a sitting area, which displays some interesting books about local nature and culture, and a breakfast and bar area.
Even if the restaurant area is nice, I highly recommend eating outside by one of the tables that are close to the swimming pool. The view of the lush garden is beautiful.
The historical building hosts a few rooms upstairs and a conference room. To get access to the other rooms you have to go outside and cross the garden on the left. Rooms are in front of you on three different floors. The decor is very nice as well, showcasing steal statuettes and vintage posters.
Note: the hotel doesn’t have a lift, so if you have a heavy suitcase or you are unable to take the stairs, don’t forget to ask a ground-floor room.
Hotel Ker Alberte’s Prestige room:
We stayed in the Prestige room number 11, one of the two suites on the top of the hotel. The view of the garden and swimming pool is very nice. Furthermore, you have a nice private terrace with so many plants and flowers around. Inside the room is 35 m² large and has all the basic comforts: air conditioning, TV, WiFi, coffee, and a tea machine.
The bathroom is a nice size, and it has a rain shower. In the beauty kit, you will find soap, body soap, and cotton swabs. The rooms are also equipped with a hair drier. If you are going to the swimming pool at the reception you can ask for a different towel.
The K Restaurant
The K restaurant is surrounded by the garden and the swimming pool. On its right there is an amazing graffiti made by the artist collective Muze Laru. The atmosphere at night is soft and romantic.
The restaurant offer menu à la carte or a formula. We wanted to go on a classic appetizer – main course – dessert formula, but the hearty dishes obliged us to stop after the main course.
First, we had land and sea appetizers. I was so happy to eat burrata, which is typically Italian. Following the appetizers, the main course was beef skewers and duck with a delicious blackcurrant sauce! I also loved the pumpkin puree that garnished both plates. The caipirinha was very good and not too strong.
The breakfast buffet is varied, there are French croissants and salted options as well. You can also order the freshly made crepes with a vanilla touch, they are very tasty! Or if you prefer a classic American breakfast, you may ask for scrambled eggs or an omelet.
The K Restaurant
In conclusion, why I loved Hotel Ker Alberte
The staff is very nice and professional, which is not obvious in French Guiana.
Unfortunately, we had a problem with our door’s lock. But the receptionist was very reactive and secured our belongings while we were away. Also, the lady who welcomed us at breakfast was very kind. She let us visit the hotel and took all the photos we wanted.
Overall, it was a nice stay and I definitely recommend it for your Cayenne’s getaways. It allows you to discover a historical colonial building with a modern twist.
A video is worth a thousand words, check out our virtual tour down below.
Prepare your stay in French Guiana
Are you looking for more travel inspirations from France’s wildest region? I’ve been living in French Guiana for more then 10 years, and I explored almost every corner of this amazing region. Be inspired by our wanderings on the French Guiana page.
