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Guiana Amazonian National Park
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The Guiana Amazonian Park was established in 2007 and, with an area of approximately 3.4 million hectares, is the largest national park in the European Union. Located in the south of French Guiana, it protects a significant portion of the Amazon rainforest along the border with Brazil. The territory is accessible only by river or air, hosting an almost pristine wilderness with immense biodiversity. It is home to jaguars, harpy eagles, giant otters, and countless insect and plant species, many of which are yet to be scientifically described. The park also has a critical cultural dimension, as it protects the ancestral lands of indigenous peoples such as the Wayana and Teko. Park management faces major challenges, particularly from illegal gold mining which threatens rivers and ecosystems. Together with the adjacent Brazilian Tumucumaque National Park, it forms one of the world's largest tropical protected area corridors.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 245 | 259 | 299 | 330 | 339 | 223 | 173 | 95 | 44 | 53 | 81 | 193 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The entrance to Guiana Amazonian National Park is usually facilitated by visitor centers in surrounding towns. Travelers rely on regional roads or dedicated shuttle buses.
Best season
Lower areas are open year-round, but high-altitude trails are best experienced from the dry season when trails are manageable. Torrential tropical rains limit access greatly.
Terrain & paths
The landscape encompasses diverse topographies, from smooth paved walks to rugged wilderness trails. Visitors must match their route to their fitness.
What to bring
Preparation is key; sturdy hiking boots and layered clothing are mandatory for long hikes. Always pack topographic maps, supplies, and much hydration.
Parking
Designated staging areas are located at the park perimeters and near major trail junctions. Arriving very early is advised to secure a good spot.
Safety
Adherence to park regulations is strictly required to protect ecosystems. Wild animal encounters are possible, so maintain distance and stay on paths.
Time needed
Short interpretive walks near visitor centers can be enjoyed in under two hours. Appreciating the deeper wilderness requires full multi-day itineraries.
Geography
Facts
- The park covers a vast area of 33,900 square kilometers.
- It was officially established on February 27, 2007.
- The park's surface area is larger than the entire country of Belgium.
- There is not a single road leading into the core area of the park.
- More than 1,200 tree species have already been identified in the area.
- The park hosts one of the highest densities of jaguars in South America.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Guiana Amazonian National Park (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How to reach the park?
Mostly reachable only by pirogue (boat) via rivers or by small planes.
Do I need vaccinations?
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into French Guiana.
How is the climate in the Amazon area?
Tropical-hot and very humid with high rainfall throughout the year.
What wildlife lives there?
Jaguars, howler monkeys, toucans, and caimans are part of the ecosystem.
Are there villages there?
Yes, indigenous peoples like the Wayampi live in remote areas of the park.
Guiana Amazonian National Park: where is it located?
Guiana Amazonian National Park is located in Bretagne, France.
Guiana Amazonian National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Guiana Amazonian National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Guiana Amazonian Park was established in 2007 and, with an area of approximately 3.4 million hectares, is the largest national park in the European Union.
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