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French Guiana is just a short boat ride from Suriname, but feels like a completely different world. During this unique day trip, you will depart from Paramaribo to the border town of Albina and cross the Marowijne River by canoe to the charming French village of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.
Book your day trip to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni now for an unforgettable experience!
Highlights/Activities
Advice from Insiders
Xiara
Discover the ultimate border adventure from Paramaribo to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana in just 2.5 hours.
Step aboard a korjaal and cross the Marowijne River, where you embrace the French atmosphere in the historic town.
Explore the Moiwana Monument, enjoy a boat trip, and admire the French tropics. Follow the historical route related to the Interior War and immerse yourself in the rich history.
Don’t miss it: a journey that brings together culture, nature, and history in one breathtaking experience!
Inclusive/Exclusive
Inclusive
Exclusive
Tour Information
Program
- 07:30 – Departure from Paramaribo: Start your day early and comfortably with our pleasant drive from Paramaribo. Sit back and enjoy the view of the Surinamese landscape as we drive towards Albina.
- +/- 10:00 – Arrival in Albina: After a drive of approximately 2.5 hours we reach the border town of Albina. Here we transfer to the ferry to French Guiana.
Please note: we do not go through French Guiana customs so a visa is not required. You must bring a valid passport for inspection upon departure from Albina. - +/- 11:00 – Welcome to French Guiana: The day is all about adventure and discovery! You will explore the highlights of French Guiana, including historic sites, lively markets and cultural hotspots.
Optionally you can visit the famous Bagno Prison (entrance not included).
After exploring Saint Laurent, we return to Albina. Once you arrive at Albina you can enjoy adelicious Surinamese lunch. - +/- 17:00/18:00 – Back in Paramaribo: Around 17:00/18:00 you will be back in Paramaribo, with a head full of memories and stories to share.
Travel details
Day trip to French Guiana
Transportation: Bus and boat
Departure time: 07:30*
Travel time: Approximately 2.5 hours drive
Back in Paramaribo: Around 17:00/18:00
Frequently Asked Questions
Packing list
🧳 Your Packing List for the Day Trip to French Guiana!
Ready to cross the border and embark on a new adventure? Don’t forget these essentials:
☀️ Sun protection – A hat or cap to shield your face + sunscreen to protect against the tropical sun.
👟 Comfortable shoes – Sturdy walking shoes for all the exploring.
🌧️ Rain jacket or poncho – In case the jungle or the town surprises you with a tropical shower.
🎒 Backpack – Handy for snacks, water, and small souvenirs.
📸 Camera or phone – Capture the many highlights (tip: make sure your battery is fully charged!).
🪪 Passport – Required at the border control.
💰 Small change in SRD & Euros – SRD for local expenses, Euros for purchases in Saint-Laurent or the bagno (€8).
🍏 Snacks & water – Always good to have for the journey (optional).
🥂 Small change for drinks – Especially handy if you’d like something extra, as these are often not included.
And most importantly: bring a big dose of curiosity and wanderlust! 🌍✨
Accommodation
Departure date
- Regular departure Wednesday/Saturday (due to market day at Saint Laurent) On request (with a minimum of 3 people)
- Other days are also possible, but only the Saint Laurent market is closed.
General information
Busreis
Vroeg in de ochtend vertrekt u vanuit Paramaribo, over de Oost – West verbinding, naar het grensstadje Albina in het district Marowijne. Tijdens de busreis komt u langs enkele historische bezienswaardigheden zoals Stolkertsijver en het Moiwana-monument, die de lokale bevolking herinneren aan de Surinaamse binnenlandse oorlog (tachtiger jaren).
Wandeling door Frans-Guyana
Vanuit Albina vertrekt u per korjaal naar het grensstadje St. Laurent du Maroni, in het buurland Frans-Guyana dat tot heden nog een Frans overzees departement is.
Vanaf 1852 werden de eerste 6000 gevangenen van Frankrijk verscheept naar Frans-Guyana om hun straf uit te zitten in de lokale gevangenis.
U brengt als eerst een bezoekje aan het bagno (gevangenis), opgericht in 1858 en waarrond dit stadje is ontstaan. Deze bagno is nu in gebruik als museum en is vooral bekend geworden door de film L'affaire Seznec en de verfilming van het boek Papillon.
Na het bezoek aan de Bagno loopt u langs enkele winkels en de markt waar verschillende bevolkingsgroepen hun producten verkopen. Nadat we weer terug keren naar Paramaribo, maken we een stop voor de lunch.
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