Îlet la Mère Monkey Island

Îlet la Mère is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Cayenne, renowned for its rich history and its inquisitive primate residents. During the 19th century, specifically between 1852 and 1875, the island served as a site for part of the French penal colony system, the ruins of which are still visible amidst the dense vegetation today. Now, the island is most famous for its population of squirrel monkeys, which were introduced in the 1980s for research purposes and have since thrived and multiplied across the island. Accessible only by boat, the island features a well-maintained hiking trail that leads visitors past historical remains and scenic coastal viewpoints. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a unique blend of dark colonial history and wildlife interaction. The island's relative isolation has helped preserve a micro-ecosystem that stands in stark contrast to the mainland. Visitors are encouraged to respect the monkeys' natural environment to ensure the long-term health of the population.

Nearby cities

Cayenne

In Cayenne, the largest administrative center and capital of the region, known for its vibrant Creole culture and historic colonial archi…

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.

Kaw Marshes

A vast wetland in French Guiana, renowned for its immense biodiversity and caiman populations.

History & landmarks

Stade Georges-Chaumet

The largest multi-purpose stadium in Cayenne, regularly used for major football matches and athletics events.

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Cayenne City Hall

The beautiful administrative building of the city of Cayenne, designed in a classical colonial style with striking yellow facades.

Prefecture of French Guiana

The official seat of the prefect and an outstanding example of French colonial administration in the Caribbean and South America.

Félix Éboué House

The historical birthplace of famous politician Félix Éboué, which today is a small museum about Guiana's history.

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.

Thérèse and Léon Blum House

A historic building in Cayenne connected with important figures of French history.

Alexandre-Franconie Museum

The main museum in Cayenne showcasing the history, culture, and natural history of French Guiana within a traditional Creole house.

More places

Fort Diamant

A 19th-century coastal battery built to protect the entrance to the Mahury River.

Dégrad des Cannes Industrial Zone

A significant industrial zone in Remire-Montjoly, located right next to the country's main commercial port.

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Habitation Loyola

The remains of a massive 17th-century Jesuit plantation that was crucial to the local economy.

Collery Industrial Park

The largest commercial area in the capital Cayenne, concentrating trade, logistics, and light industry.

Place des Palmistes

The main square in Cayenne, surrounded by historic colonial buildings and towering palm trees.

Monument aux Morts de Cayenne

A memorial monument dedicated to the soldiers from French Guiana who fell in the World Wars.

Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur de Cayenne

The primary Catholic cathedral of French Guiana, featuring colonial architecture.

Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie

A museum showcasing the natural history, archaeology, and ethnology of French Guiana.