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L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse
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The Phare de l'Enfant Perdu is a historical lighthouse located on a small rocky islet about 11 kilometers off the coast of Cayenne. The name 'L'Enfant Perdu' (The Lost Child) refers to the isolated and dangerous location of the island amidst the Atlantic currents. The lighthouse was constructed in 1863 to secure navigation for ships heading to the port of Cayenne, which was of strategic importance during the colonial era. The structure consists of a square stone tower that was originally manned before being automated in 1905, making it one of the first automated lighthouses in the region. Living conditions for the lighthouse keepers on this tiny rock were extremely harsh and characterized by total isolation. Today, the lighthouse is an important maritime monument, although it is not directly accessible to the public. It continues to serve as a landmark and is a testament to 19th-century efforts to make the treacherous waters off French Guiana safer.
- Location: French Guiana
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (39 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
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse sits on a small rocky island off the coast and is not open to the public. It can only be viewed from a boat or from the mainland.
Typical hours
Since the lighthouse cannot be entered, there are no opening hours. Best visibility is during daytime in clear weather - the view is farthest then.
Photography
Photograph the lighthouse from the mainland using a telephoto lens for good shots. Unique perspectives are also available from a sightseeing boat.
Time needed
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes to reach a good viewpoint along the coast. The actual photo stop takes just a few minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a coastal drive along Route de la Côte or a trip to Montravel beach. Alternatively, take a detour to Fort Cépérou.
Getting there
The best access point for viewing the lighthouse is the shoreline at Remire-Montjoly, about 15 minutes east of Cayenne. A rental car is recommended.
Insider tip
Bring binoculars to better spot the lighthouse. The area is quiet and secluded - well-suited for a relaxing break away from the city.
Geography
Facts
- The lighthouse was commissioned and put into service in 1863.
- It is located on the Islet de l'Enfant Perdu in the Atlantic Ocean.
- The tower stands at a height of approximately 12 meters above sea level.
- Automation of the light signal was completed as early as 1905.
- The light has a visibility range of about 15 nautical miles.
- Access to the islet is very difficult due to strong currents and sharp rocks.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the lighthouse?
The lighthouse is located on an isolated rock in the sea and can only be seen from a distance by boat.
Where exactly is L'Enfant Perdu located?
It is located about 11 km off the coast of Cayenne in the Atlantic Ocean.
Why is it called 'The Lost Child'?
The name comes from the isolated location of the rock, standing lonely in dangerous waters.
When was the tower built?
The first lighthouse was built in 1863 to warn shipping of the reefs.
Are there boat tours there?
Some excursion boats and catamarans from Cayenne or Kourou sail near the rock.
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse: where is it located?
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse is located in French Guiana.
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
The Phare de l'Enfant Perdu is a historical lighthouse located on a small rocky islet about 11 kilometers off the coast of Cayenne.
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A historic lighthouse located on a small rocky islet off the coast of Macouria.
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Historic 17th-century fort ruins overlooking the city of Cayenne.