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Camp de la Transportation
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Historical site
The Camp de la Transportation in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni was the primary processing center for convicts deported to French Guiana during the colonial era. Established in 1852, the facility served as the central arrival point where prisoners were registered and categorized before being distributed to various labor camps across the territory. The camp's architecture, featuring massive stone walls, watchtowers, and cramped collective cells, reflects the brutal conditions of the penal system that remained operational until 1953. One of its most famous inmates was Henri Charrière, whose experiences later inspired the semi-autobiographical novel Papillon. Today, the site is classified as a historical monument and houses a museum dedicated to documenting the dark history of the penal colony. Visitors can explore the original barracks, the hospital, and the administrative offices that stand as a testament to a century of repressive policy.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Transportation camp · Hangar de l'ancienne gare · Débarcadère du bagne de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
- Nearby: Awala-Yalimapo (20 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
Visiting
Camp de la Transportation serves as the entry point to the penal colony history and houses a museum with detailed exhibits on prisoner life. From here you can also explore the other camps, gaining a comprehensive overview.
Typical hours
It typically operates during standard museum hours, usually from morning until late afternoon. Hours may vary on public holidays and weekends; checking ahead is recommended.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed inside the museum to capture the exhibits. Flash may be restricted for conservation reasons - use natural light instead.
Time needed
Allow 1 to 2 hours for the full museum circuit to study the exhibits at leisure. The audio guide adds roughly 30 extra minutes.
Combine with
Combine with the nearby Camp Crique Anguille to understand the link between arrival and labor camp. Many tours include both sites, offering a logical historical progression.
Getting there
The camp is in the center of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, easily walkable from the town center. Public buses stop nearby and parking is available in the area.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet atmosphere. The museum provides a good overview before visiting other penal colonies in the region.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1852 in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.
- Official closure of the penal system in 1953.
- Central arrival point for all overseas convicts.
- Famous inmate Henri Charrière (Papillon).
- Classification as a French historical monument.
- Documentation of the Bagno history in the on-site museum.
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
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Sights in the town Camp de la Transportation (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was the Camp de la Transportation?
It was the main transit camp for convicts deported to the penal colony of French Guiana.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, daily guided tours explain the history and show the cells, including the one attributed to Papillon.
What are the opening hours?
Generally from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM; often closed on Mondays.
Is the entrance free?
Access to the grounds is often free, but there is a fee for the guided tours.
Where is the camp located?
It is located in the center of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, right on the banks of the Maroni River.
Camp de la Transportation: where is it located?
Camp de la Transportation is located in French Guiana.
Camp de la Transportation: what is there to see?
Highlights include Transportation camp, Hangar de l'ancienne gare, Débarcadère du bagne de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.
Camp de la Transportation: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Camp de la Transportation: why is it worth visiting?
The Camp de la Transportation in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni was the primary processing center for convicts deported to French Guiana during the colonial era.
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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
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Église de Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
A prominent church in the border city, built in the early 20th century by convicts.
Saint-Laurent River Port
An important river port on the Maroni, facilitating border trade with Suriname and access to the interior.
Toucan Rum Distillery
A local agricultural business in Saint-Laurent that grows sugarcane and traditionally processes it into quality rum.
Saint-Laurent Timber Industry
Several large sawmills in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni process tropical hardwoods from the surrounding forests.
Bagne de Saint-Jean-du-Maroni
Also known as Camp de la Relégation, it was a penal colony for repeat offenders.
Cimetière des Relégués
A somber cemetery in Saint-Jean-du-Maroni where many exiled prisoners were buried.
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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.