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Camp Crique Anguille
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Camp Crique Anguille was a significant forestry penal camp within the vast penal colony system of French Guiana, located in the commune of Montsinéry-Tonnegrande. Established in the late 19th century, it was designed to exploit the colony's timber resources through the forced labor of convicts. Prisoners assigned to this camp were subjected to grueling conditions, working in the humid and mosquito-infested equatorial forest to fell massive trees and transport heavy logs via waterways. The site played a crucial role in the economic infrastructure of the 'bagne', providing essential materials for local construction and international export. High mortality rates were common due to the prevalence of tropical diseases like malaria and the lack of proper medical care. Today, the ruins of the camp remain as a testament to the harsh reality of the 'green hell' and the industrial scale of the French penal system. Archaeological efforts continue to uncover details about the daily lives and structural layout of this remote outpost, preserving a dark chapter of colonial history.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Bagne des Annamites · Pont Jaune
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (49 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 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 300 | 264 | 251 | 369 | 504 | 334 | 217 | 109 | 54 | 58 | 110 | 303 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Camp Crique Anguille ruins are accessible as an open-air historical site, offering insight into the harsh penal camp conditions. You can view the remaining structures from outside, but interiors are closed for safety.
Typical hours
No official opening hours apply to this unstaffed ruin site. Visiting is typically possible from sunrise to sunset, with daylight hours recommended.
Photography
Outdoor photography is permitted and encouraged to capture the historic setting. Avoid climbing on unstable walls for better shots.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for a thorough exploration of the camp and its surroundings. The jungle path may take extra time, so budget accordingly.
Combine with
Combine this visit with Camp de la Transportation in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni to deepen the penal colony history. Many guided tours cover both sites for a comprehensive overview.
Getting there
The site lies in the remote Tonnegrande jungle area, about an hour's drive from Cayenne. A private vehicle or organized tour from Cayenne is required as there is no public transit.
Insider tip
Bring strong insect repellent and plenty of drinking water - the jungle humidity is extreme. Wear sturdy footwear as the ground can be uneven and slippery.
Geography
Facts
- The camp specialized in the extraction of high-quality tropical timber.
- Logs were floated down the Crique Anguille waterway to reach the coast.
- Convicts worked in shifts of up to 12 hours under heavy rainfall conditions.
- The site was notoriously known for its high incidence of tropical fevers.
- It was one of many specialized forestry camps established in the interior.
- The ruins are now protected as part of French Guiana's cultural heritage.
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 Camp Crique Anguille (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Camp Crique Anguille?
A former penal camp hidden deep in the forest.
Is access difficult?
Yes, the path can be difficult and muddy depending on the weather conditions.
What can you see there?
Remains of walls and cells that have been almost completely reclaimed by nature.
Should you take a guide?
An experienced local guide is highly recommended to find the way safely.
Are there dangerous animals there?
As everywhere in the jungle, you should be mindful of snakes and insects.
Camp Crique Anguille: where is it located?
Camp Crique Anguille is located in French Guiana.
Camp Crique Anguille: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bagne des Annamites, Pont Jaune.
Camp Crique Anguille: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Camp Crique Anguille: why is it worth visiting?
Camp Crique Anguille was a significant forestry penal camp within the vast penal colony system of French Guiana, located in the commune of Montsinéry-Tonnegrande.
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