Awala-Yalimapo

Awala-Yalimapo is located in the far northwest of French Guiana, where the Mana River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. This village is primarily the center of the indigenous Kali'na culture. Visitors are drawn to this remote stretch of coastline to experience authentic indigenous traditions, crafts, and above all, a unique natural spectacle: the beach of Plage des Hattes. This stretch of beach is considered one of the most important nesting sites in the world for the giant leatherback turtle. Observing these gentle giants coming to the beach at night to lay their eggs is a profoundly moving experience. In addition to the turtles, the village has cultural insights into the lives of the Kali'na people, including pottery, basket weaving, and traditional cassava preparation. The local cuisine relies heavily on freshly caught fish and cassava products. From Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, the village is easily accessible by car in about an hour. The absolute best time to observe the leatherback turtles laying their eggs is between April and July. If you want to experience the hatching of the little turtles, you should plan to arrive in the late summer months.

Nearby cities

Cayenne

In Cayenne, the largest administrative center and capital of the region, known for its vibrant Creole culture and historic colonial archi…

Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni

A historic town along the Maroni River, known for its former penal colony and vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.

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

Maroni River

The Maroni is the longest river in French Guiana, forming the border with Suriname.

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Lake Petit-Saut

Lake Petit-Saut is a large reservoir that provides hydroelectric power for French Guiana.

More places

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Amana Nature Reserve

A vast coastal reserve encompassing wetlands and beaches, serving as an important nesting ground for birds.

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Acarouany Forest

An important forest reserve in the northwest of French Guiana.

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Mana Rice Mills

Large agricultural processing facilities in northwestern Guiana, preparing the bulk of local rice production.

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.