Kaw Marshes

The Kaw Marshes, often referred to as the "Amazon Marshes," are one of the most fascinating nature reserves in French Guiana. Visitors come here to immerse themselves in a pristine ecosystem dominated by waterways and flooded savannahs. A guided pirogue (traditional canoe) tour, either by day or night, is the absolute highlight, offering the chance to experience the rich wildlife up close. Nature is the main attraction: scarlet ibises, egrets, howler monkeys, and capybaras inhabit the region. The marshes are particularly famous for the four species of caiman native to the area, including the rare black caiman. Night safaris provide the best opportunity to observe these fascinating reptiles in their natural habitat. On the culinary side, you can enjoy rustic, Creole fish dishes in the floating lodges. The reserve is located about a two-hour drive southeast of Cayenne, followed by a boat ride from the village of Kaw. The best time to visit is the dry season from July to December, when water levels are lower and wildlife observation is easier, though the rainy season features a completely different, magical waterscape.

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.

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.

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.

Félix Éboué House

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

Cayenne Central Market

The bustling central market of Cayenne, housed in an iconic steel structure and famous for its local spices.

Thérèse and Léon Blum House

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

Nature

More places

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Kaw Mountain

Kaw Mountain is part of a large nature reserve and is known for its wetlands.

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Trésor Nature Reserve

A regional nature reserve offering a rich tropical forest ecosystem with an educational trail for school groups.

Vestiges de Guisanbourg

The abandoned remains of a 19th-century agricultural town that once thrived on sugar cane.

Regina Vanilla Plantation

A sustainable plantation near Regina that cultivates natural vanilla deep in the forest, one of the region's most valuable crops.

Régina Forest

Extensive jungle areas in the east of French Guiana around the municipality of Régina.

Îlet la Mère Monkey Island

A small offshore island known for its free-roaming squirrel monkeys that often greet visitors.

Roura Logging Enterprise

A center for controlled logging and processing, exporting valuable woods like Angelique from the municipality's extensive forests.

Fort Diamant

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