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Dreyfus Tower
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Landmark
The Dreyfus Tower (Tour Dreyfus), often mistakenly called the Château de Kourou, is a prominent historical landmark situated at Pointe des Roches in Kourou. Built in the 19th century, it originally functioned as an optical telegraph station used to communicate via signals with the notorious Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands) offshore. Its name references Alfred Dreyfus, the most famous prisoner of Devil's Island, although he was never actually held within the tower. Constructed from local stone and brick, the tower provides sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. During the penal colony era, it was a crucial part of the surveillance network, helping to thwart escape attempts and coordinate supply movements. Today, the tower stands as a peaceful lookout and a memorial reflecting on the region's dark history. It has undergone extensive restoration and is a popular destination for visitors strolling along the mouth of the Kourou River.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Oceanside · Plage des Roches · Plage Pim-Poum
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (68 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 Dreyfus Tower in Kourou is an old signal tower clearly visible from the shore. The interior is usually not accessible, but the exterior view is worthwhile.
Typical hours
As a freely accessible outdoor monument, there are no opening hours. Visit during daylight for the best view of the coastline.
Photography
Photograph the tower from various angles to capture its waterfront location. The best shot is at sunset with golden light.
Time needed
A brief stop at Dreyfus Tower takes about 10-15 minutes. If you explore the surroundings, allow half an hour.
Combine with
The tower is in Kourou near the launch pads of the space center. Combine the visit with a guided tour of the Guiana Space Centre.
Getting there
Dreyfus Tower is a few minutes' walk from the bank of the Kourou River. Reach it on foot from the promenade or by car via Rue du 14 Juillet.
Insider tip
Combine the visit with a walk along the riverside promenade to enjoy the view. Binoculars help spot details on nearby Devil's Island.
Geography
Facts
- Built in the 19th century
- Used as an optical telegraph station
- Communicated with the Salvation Islands
- Constructed of brick and local stone
- Named after the convict Alfred Dreyfus
- Located at Pointe des Roches in Kourou
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 Dreyfus Tower (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Dreyfus Tower?
A former signal tower in Kourou, used for communication with the Îles du Salut.
Where exactly is the tower located?
It stands at Pointe des Roches, right at the mouth of the Kourou River into the sea.
Can you climb the tower?
Most of the time it can only be viewed from the outside, but the view from the square is wonderful.
Why is it called the Dreyfus Tower?
Named after Alfred Dreyfus, the famous prisoner of Devil's Island, though he himself was never in the tower.
Is entry free?
Yes, the monument is on public ground and is free to visit.
Dreyfus Tower: where is it located?
Dreyfus Tower is located in French Guiana.
Dreyfus Tower: what is there to see?
Highlights include Oceanside, Plage des Roches, Plage Pim-Poum.
Dreyfus Tower: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Dreyfus Tower: why is it worth visiting?
The Dreyfus Tower (Tour Dreyfus), often mistakenly called the Château de Kourou, is a prominent historical landmark situated at Pointe des Roches in Kourou.
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