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Acarouany Forest
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The Acarouany Forest is situated near the commune of Mana in northwestern French Guiana. Historically, this region is primarily known for the former Acarouany leper colony, established in 1833 by Mother Javouhey. The surrounding forest constitutes a fascinating transitional ecosystem between coastal mangroves and the inland tropical high rainforest. It is characterized by wet swamp forests and a high density of palm species, particularly the Açai palm. The local wildlife is exceptionally rich in waterfowl, including the Scarlet Ibis, which nests in the nearby estuaries. Geologically, the area consists of young sedimentary deposits of the coastal plain, influenced by tidal cycles. Today, the Acarouany Forest serves as a site of remembrance and a protected natural area, highlighting the close link between colonial history and ecological diversity in French Guiana.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Javouhey Randonnées / Balades en forêt et canoë · Ancienne léproserie de l'Acarouany · Église Évangélique de Javouhey
- Nearby: Awala-Yalimapo (15 km)
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 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 210 | 182 | 166 | 275 | 383 | 292 | 198 | 113 | 57 | 64 | 104 | 216 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to this northwestern reserve typically originates from the road network near Mana and Awala-Yalimapo, often requiring local guidance to locate the best entry trails.
Best season
Visiting during the relatively drier months of August to November is highly advised to avoid the deeply flooded paths and heavy precipitation typical of the rainy season.
Terrain & paths
The environment is characterized by dense, humid tropical rainforest with a thick understory, intertwined root systems, and trails that can become extremely muddy.
What to bring
High-quality jungle boots, long moisture-wicking trousers, and powerful insect repellent are absolute necessities, along with a compass or GPS for reliable navigation.
Parking
Vehicles are generally left at nearby settlements or along wider gravel access roads, but formal, guarded parking infrastructure is practically nonexistent in this region.
Safety
Getting disoriented in the thick foliage is a significant danger; hiring an experienced local tracker is strongly recommended to ensure a secure and informative trek.
Time needed
Exploratory hikes usually range from a few hours around the accessible fringes to full-day immersive excursions deeper into the undisturbed biological reserve.
Geography
Facts
- The Acarouany leper colony was officially closed only as recently as 1952.
- The forest hosts one of the largest concentrations of Açai palms in the Mana region.
- The area is designated as a ZNIEFF (Natural Zone of Ecological, Faunistic, and Floristic Interest).
- The Scarlet Ibis uses the forest edge as a roosting site during high tide.
- Historically, the forest was exploited for the extraction of rosewood oil.
- The soil structure is defined by hydromorphic formations and marshland.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Acarouany Forest (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Acarouany forest located?
It is located in the northwest of French Guiana, near the town of Mana.
What is the historical significance of Acarouany?
Nearby was a former leper colony, which is now a historical monument.
What type of forest is found here?
It is a mixture of swamp forest and dry coastal forest, rich in mangroves near the river.
Can you go bird watching?
Yes, the area is good for seeing herons, ibises, and other water birds in the wetlands.
Is the forest easily explorable on foot?
There are some established paths, but off those, the ground is often very muddy and unstable.
Acarouany Forest: where is it located?
Acarouany Forest is located in French Guiana.
Acarouany Forest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Javouhey Randonnées / Balades en forêt et canoë, Ancienne léproserie de l'Acarouany, Église Évangélique de Javouhey.
Acarouany Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Acarouany Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Acarouany Forest is situated near the commune of Mana in northwestern French Guiana.
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Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
A historic town along the Maroni River, known for its former penal colony and vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Awala-Yalimapo
An indigenous coastal community, world-famous as a nesting site for the massive leatherback sea turtles.
History & landmarks
Saint-Jean-du-Maroni Camp
The abandoned remains of the relegation camp, which formerly housed repeat offenders from the French justice system.
Saint-Joseph Church of Iracoubo
A colorful and elaborately decorated wooden church in Iracoubo, painted entirely on the inside by a former convict.
Petit-Saut Dam
A massive hydroelectric dam on the Sinnamary River that supplies a significant portion of electricity for French Guiana.
Nature
More places
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Mana Rice Mills
Large agricultural processing facilities in northwestern Guiana, preparing the bulk of local rice production.
🗺️
Amana Nature Reserve
A vast coastal reserve encompassing wetlands and beaches, serving as an important nesting ground for birds.
Saint-Laurent River Port
An important river port on the Maroni, facilitating border trade with Suriname and access to the interior.
Camp de la Transportation
The main penal colony facility where prisoners arrived in French Guiana before being distributed.
Église de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
A prominent church in the border city, built in the early 20th century by convicts.
Saint-Laurent Timber Industry
Several large sawmills in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni process tropical hardwoods from the surrounding forests.
Toucan Rum Distillery
A local agricultural business in Saint-Laurent that grows sugarcane and traditionally processes it into quality rum.
Bagne de Saint-Jean-du-Maroni
Also known as Camp de la Relégation, it was a penal colony for repeat offenders.