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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
What to bring on your day trip to French Guiana:
- Sun protection:
- Hat or cap: Protect your face from the sun.
- Sunscreen: Essential to protect your skin from UV rays.
- Comfortable clothing and shoes:
- Good walking shoes: You will be walking a lot; wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
- Raincoat or poncho: For unexpected rain showers.
- Practical essentials:
- Backpack: For carrying personal items such as snacks, a water bottle, and souvenirs.
- Camera or phone: There are many beautiful sights to capture. Make sure batteries are fully charged.
- Identification and money:
- Passport: Mandatory due to border controls.
- Change in SRD and Euro:
• SRD for local expenses
• Euros for purchases in French Guiana or bagno entrance (optional
- Food and drinks:
- Snacks and water: Bring something small to enjoy on the way (optional).
- Change for alcoholic drinks: These are often not included.
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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