Things To Do
in Kourou

Kourou, located in French Guiana, is a vibrant coastal town known for its rich cultural diversity and historical significance. It is primarily famous for the Guiana Space Centre, which is one of the world's most important spaceports. Surrounded by lush rainforests and the Atlantic Ocean, Kourou offers a unique blend of natural beauty and technological advancement.

The town serves as a gateway to various ecological and cultural attractions in the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Space Centre and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Guiana Space Centre, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the history and functioning of this significant spaceport.

afternoon
:

After exploring the space centre, head to the Centre Spatial Guyanais Museum to delve deeper into the space exploration history of Kourou.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Creole dishes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the nearby beaches, such as the Plage de Kourou, where you can relax or take a swim.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kourou Market, where you can taste local snacks and shop for unique handicrafts and fresh produce.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset view from the Promenade des Roches, followed by dinner at a popular seafood restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$4
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$50
🚕Taxi Ride$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity and history
  • Access to unique natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Home to the Guiana Space Centre, offering unique tours and experiences
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High humidity and rainfall during certain seasons
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Kourou

Visit one of these nice places.

Guiana Space Centre

Capture stunning views of rockets and the impressive spaceport infrastructure.

Plage de Kourou

A picturesque beach perfect for sunset photography with beautiful coastal scenery.

Centre Spatial Guyanais Museum

An interesting backdrop with historical exhibits related to space exploration.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kourou

Kourou offers a delightful culinary scene influenced by its diverse cultural heritage, featuring a mix of Creole, African, and indigenous flavors.

Kourou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bouillon d'Awara

A traditional soup made with the awara fruit, often served with fish or chicken.

Must-Try!

Accras de Morue

Deep-fried cod fritters, a popular snack enjoyed by locals.

Fricassée de Poulet

A flavorful chicken stew cooked with local spices and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kourou Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Various food stalls around town serving quick bites like grilled meats and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kourou experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures typically range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F). The wet season (December to July) brings significant rainfall, while the dry season (August to November) offers more sunshine and less humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone; it's polite to greet people with 'Bonjour'.

Respect for Cultural Diversity

Be mindful of the diverse cultures present; show respect for different customs and traditions.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to start eating; it's considered polite to finish all food served.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kourou is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing valuables. Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places and avoid displaying expensive items.

Tipping in Kourou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (December - July)

Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential flooding, making outdoor activities challenging.

Dry Season (August - November)

More favorable weather with less rain; ideal for outdoor exploration and beach activities.

Carnival Season (February - March)

Experience vibrant festivals, parades, and local culture, attracting many visitors.

Holiday Season (December)

Enjoy local festivities and markets during Christmas, showcasing traditional food and crafts.

Nightlife Guide

Kourou at Night

Kourou has a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars, cafes, and clubs that cater to different tastes. Locals enjoy live music and dance, especially during weekends. Popular venues often host themed nights and events, making it a lively destination for those looking to experience the local culture after dark.

Hiking in Kourou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc Naturel Régional de la Guyane

A vast natural park offering various trails through lush rainforests and rich biodiversity.

Sentier de la Montagne de Kaw

A well-maintained trail leading to stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Kourou by plane.

Cayenne - Félix Eboué Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Kourou, this is the main international airport serving French Guiana, with regular flights to and from major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kourou is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may lack pedestrian crossings, so it's important to remain aware of traffic while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Creole Community

The Creole people form a significant part of Kourou's population, contributing to its rich culture and traditions.

Indigenous Groups

Several indigenous communities live in and around Kourou, preserving their unique cultural heritage and practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Kourou, with many local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular in the region, with local clubs and leagues providing opportunities for both players and spectators.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Kourou are generally light, making it easy to navigate the town. Public transportation options are limited, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kourou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to communicate restrictions clearly to staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kourou is provided through local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services are available, but serious medical issues may require transfer to larger hospitals in Cayenne. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover French Guiana

Read more in our French Guiana 2025 Travel Guide.

French Guiana Travel Guide