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Cacao Bridge
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The Pont de Cacao is an important bridge providing access to the village of Cacao in the interior of French Guiana. The village of Cacao is renowned for its Hmong community, who settled here as refugees from Laos in 1977 and transformed the area into an agricultural hub. The bridge crosses the Comté River and is a vital piece of infrastructure connecting the isolated village with the capital city of Cayenne. For visitors, crossing this bridge often marks the beginning of a journey into a different world, as Cacao is famous for its traditional markets and the cultivation of tropical fruits and flowers. The surroundings of the bridge are dominated by dense rainforest, and the Comté River provides an easy on the eye backdrop for nature observation. Nearby, one can often find hiking trails and opportunities for canoe trips. The bridge itself is a symbol of the successful integration of the Hmong people and the development of Guiana's hinterland. It enables the transport of agricultural products that are sold in markets throughout the region.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Montagne Blanche · Montagne Kwata · Montagne Carapa
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (39 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 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 305 | 283 | 276 | 385 | 488 | 315 | 216 | 110 | 56 | 59 | 109 | 309 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cacao Bridge is a distinctive bridge that is publicly accessible from both sides. You can cross on foot or by bike, enjoying the river and surroundings.
Typical hours
The bridge is accessible at any time as it is a public road link. No restrictions apply, but the best time to visit is during daylight with good light.
Photography
The bridge gives great photo subjects - shoot it from a distance with the river in the foreground. Close-up architectural details are also worthwhile.
Time needed
A short walk across the bridge and photos take about 15 to 20 minutes. If you explore the surroundings, allow half an hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby settlement of Cacao, known for its Hmong culture and market. The surrounding nature also invites walks.
Getting there
The bridge is about 40 kilometers southwest of Cayenne, reachable via RN2 then local roads. A rental car is the best option as public transport is infrequent.
Insider tip
Visit Cacao on a weekend when the Hmong community market takes place selling fresh produce. The bridge is often part of the walking route.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge spans the Comté River in the commune of Roura.
- Cacao was officially established in 1977 by Hmong refugees.
- The distance from the bridge to Cayenne is approximately 75 kilometers.
- The Sunday market in Cacao is one of the most famous in the region.
- The bridge is designed to support the heavy transport of agricultural goods.
- During the dry season, the water level of the Comté River is significantly lower.
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 Cacao Bridge (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Cacao Bridge located?
It crosses the Comté river at the entrance to the village of Cacao, about 75 km from Cayenne.
Is there parking available?
There are stopping bays just before or after the bridge for a quick photo stop.
What can you see from the bridge?
You have a magnificent view of the Comté river and the dense rainforest on the banks.
When is the best time to visit?
Sunday morning is handy, as the famous market in Cacao takes place then.
Is the bridge suitable for heavy vehicles?
Yes, it is a modern concrete bridge that allows regular traffic to Cacao.
Cacao Bridge: where is it located?
Cacao Bridge is located in French Guiana.
Cacao Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Montagne Blanche, Montagne Kwata, Montagne Carapa.
Cacao Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Cacao Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Pont de Cacao is an important bridge providing access to the village of Cacao in the interior of French Guiana.
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History & landmarks
Cayenne Central Market
The bustling central market of Cayenne, housed in an iconic steel structure and famous for its local spices.
Alexandre-Franconie Museum
The main museum in Cayenne showcasing the history, culture, and natural history of French Guiana within a traditional Creole house.
Victor Schœlcher Statue
A significant monument to Victor Schœlcher, who played a crucial role in abolishing slavery in the French colonies.
Saint-Sauveur Cathedral
The main church of Cayenne, built in colonial style, is a notable historical monument in the center of the capital.
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Jean Martial Hospital
An imposing former colonial hospital building in Cayenne, known for its classical Creole architecture.
Thérèse and Léon Blum House
A historic building in Cayenne connected with important figures of French history.
Prefecture of French Guiana
The official seat of the prefect and an outstanding example of French colonial administration in the Caribbean and South America.
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A historic lighthouse at Fort Cépérou that served as another vital landmark for coastal shipping.
More places
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Hmong Farm Cacao
An agricultural settlement founded by Hmong refugees, which today produces most of the vegetables for the country.
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Cacao Energy Facility
An important biomass power plant in the agricultural community of Cacao, using wood chips from agricultural land clearing to generate ele…
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L'Auberge des Orpailleurs
A historic inn near Roura that served prospectors during the region's gold rushes.
Camp Crique Anguille
A penal camp located in Tonnegrande, known for its harsh working conditions in the jungle.
Roura Logging Enterprise
A center for controlled logging and processing, exporting valuable woods like Angelique from the municipality's extensive forests.
Montsinéry Orchid Farm
A specialized agricultural farm in Montsinéry that cultivates rare and endemic Amazonian orchid species.
Matoury Educational Farm
A farm designed specifically for schoolchildren in Matoury, where they can learn about livestock and vegetable gardening.
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Site archéologique de Mont Grand Matoury
Archaeological site in a nature reserve showing evidence of Amerindian settlement before colonization.