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Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone
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Industrial site
The Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone (ZI Dégrad des Cannes) in Remire-Montjoly houses the primary commercial port of French Guiana and serves as its logistical gateway to the world. Since its opening in 1969, the port has replaced the old inner-city port of Cayenne and now handles over 90% of the department's imports and exports. The zone includes extensive container terminals, oil storage facilities, sugar silos, and infrastructure for exporting timber and seafood products. Geographically, it is situated at the mouth of the Mahury River, allowing access for large cargo vessels, although continuous dredging is required to maintain the depth of the navigation channel. A significant industrial district has developed around the port, featuring companies involved in energy production, cement manufacturing, and logistics. Dégrad des Cannes is vital for the territory's supply chain security, as nearly all consumer goods, construction materials, and fuels enter the country through this hub. The ongoing expansion and modernization of its wharves are central projects for regional economic development.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Pressoir · Sentier du Rorota · Montagne de Rémire
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (25 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
What is this place?
This zone focuses on port-related logistics, warehousing, and heavy equipment storage, serving as the gateway for maritime imports. It plays a crucial role in the supply chain of French Guiana, handling container traffic and bulk goods.
Visiting
The area is a working port and industrial estate with restricted access for security reasons. Visitors can view the loading cranes and container yards from the public road along the Dégrad des Cannes estuary.
Where to view it
The best spot is from the bridge over the estuary or the adjacent coastal road, offering views of docked cargo ships and industrial sheds. Photographers often capture the contrast between heavy machinery and the mangrove fringe.
Local products
The zone handles imported goods such as vehicles, construction materials, and foodstuffs, but no direct retail. Travellers may see containers stacked high, but no local products are sold on site. Typical imports include vehicles, construction materials, and staple foods.
Active season
Port operations run 24/7, but the industrial area is busiest during weekday daylight hours when trucks queue for loading. Shipping schedules vary, but the port sees increased activity during the dry season from July to December.
Nearby
Combine a visit with the nearby beaches of Montjoly or the historic town center of Cayenne. The route also passes through the pretty village of Remire-Montjoly with its Creole architecture.
Geography
Facts
- Replaced the old port of Cayenne in 1969.
- Handles nearly all of the territory's maritime trade volume.
- Located at the strategic estuary of the Mahury River.
- Home to a major thermal power plant for electricity generation.
- Features specialized terminals for containers and oil tankers.
- Continuous dredging operations maintain the channel for large freighters.
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.
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Sights in the town Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Dégrad des Cannes?
It is the most important deep-water port and logistics hub of French Guiana.
What goods are handled here?
Almost all of the country's imports, from containers and fuel to food products.
Can you visit the port area?
The port area itself is restricted, but the surrounding industrial zone is freely accessible.
Why is this location important?
It is the only calling point for large container ships in the entire region.
How far is it from Cayenne?
It is located about 15 km southeast of Cayenne in the commune of Rémire-Montjoly.
Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone: where is it located?
Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone is located in French Guiana.
Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pressoir, Sentier du Rorota, Montagne de Rémire.
Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone: why is it worth visiting?
The Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone (ZI Dégrad des Cannes) in Remire-Montjoly houses the primary commercial port of French Guiana and serves as its logistical gateway to the world.
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