Plizio Visual Lab
Monkey Mountain
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Montagne des Singes, or 'Monkey Mountain,' is one of the most popular natural sites near Kourou, offering visitors the chance to explore the rainforest on safe, well-marked paths. The summit sits at an elevation of approximately 161 meters and is accessible via a well-maintained loop trail that leads through various forest types. During the hike, nature enthusiasts can admire impressive flora up close, such as giant buttress-root trees and exotic lianas. As the name suggests, the area serves as a habitat for various primate species, including howler monkeys and capuchins, which can often be spotted in the canopy. From the observation point at the summit, there are sweeping views over the coastal plain and the nearby Guiana Space Center (CSG). Informational signs along the way explain the ecological significance of the forest and the animal species native to the area. Montagne des Singes is a good destination for families and hikers seeking a brief but immersive encounter with Amazonian nature. Preserving this peri-urban forest is vital for recreation and environmental education in the Kourou region.
- Location: French Guiana
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (72 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
Getting there
Situated conveniently close to Kourou, the trailhead is generally accessible by a standard vehicle via a short drive from the town center towards the forested hills.
Best season
Visiting during the drier season between July and November usually provides clearer skies, which is particularly beneficial for enjoying the panoramic space center views.
Terrain & paths
The established hiking trails range from moderate to steep, featuring a mix of hard-packed dirt paths, exposed tree roots, and occasional rocky steps through lush vegetation.
What to bring
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, sufficient drinking water, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and a camera with a decent zoom lens for the vista are highly recommended.
Parking
A dedicated parking area is typically available right at the start of the trailhead, providing a straightforward and reasonably secure place to leave vehicles.
Safety
The primary physical concerns include the intense tropical heat and high humidity, making an early morning start advisable to prevent exhaustion and heat-related issues.
Time needed
The complete circular hike to the main viewpoint and back down generally takes between two and three hours, depending entirely on the individual hiker's overall pace.
Geography
Facts
- Located only about 15 kilometers west of the town of Kourou.
- The main loop trail has a length of approximately 4 kilometers.
- The name refers to the frequent sightings of red howler monkeys.
- From the summit, visitors can spot the rocket launch pads of the ESA.
- The forest hosts over 100 different tree species per hectare.
- A prime location for birdwatching, particularly for spotting toucans.
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 Monkey Mountain (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Montagne des Singes located?
The hiking trail is located near Kourou and is one of the most popular hiking spots in French Guiana.
How long does the hike take?
The long loop takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. There is also a shorter botanical educational trail.
Can you actually see monkeys there?
Yes, with a bit of luck and by staying quiet, you can spot howler monkeys or squirrel monkeys in the treetops.
Is the trail suitable for families?
Yes, the trail is well-marked and maintained. The climb is moderate but can be slippery when wet.
Is there a viewpoint?
At the summit, there is a carbet (open hut) with a great view of the Kourou plain and the CSG space center.
Monkey Mountain: where is it located?
Monkey Mountain is located in French Guiana.
Monkey Mountain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Monkey Mountain: why is it worth visiting?
Montagne des Singes, or 'Monkey Mountain,' is one of the most popular natural sites near Kourou, offering visitors the chance to explore the rainforest on safe, well-marked paths.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
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
Dreyfus Tower
An old signal tower in Kourou, once used to communicate with the nearby Devil's Island during the penal colony era.
🗺️
Guiana Space Centre
The Guiana Space Centre is the main European spaceport located in Kourou, chosen for its proximity to the equator.
L'Enfant Perdu Lighthouse
A solitary lighthouse on a small rocky island off the coast, guiding mariners as they approach Cayenne.
Petit-Saut Dam
A massive hydroelectric dam on the Sinnamary River that supplies a significant portion of electricity for French Guiana.
🗺️
Jean Martial Hospital
An imposing former colonial hospital building in Cayenne, known for its classical Creole architecture.
Nature
More places
Bagne des Annamites
Ruins of a former penal colony built specifically to hold Indochinese prisoners.
🗺️
Pariacabo Port
The port of Kourou, used primarily for transporting rocket components for the space center.
Kourou Biomass Power Plant
A facility generating electricity from wood waste and biomass, contributing to energy independence and the transition to green energy in …
Pariacabo Industrial Zone
An important industrial zone in Kourou, housing many suppliers of the nearby space center.
Roches Gravées de la Carapa
An archaeological site featuring ancient pre-Columbian petroglyphs carved into rocks.
Air Liquide Plant Kourou
A specialized Air Liquide industrial facility in the space center producing liquid oxygen and hydrogen for rocket propellant.
Vega Launch Pad (ELV)
The launch complex for European Vega rockets, used for lighter satellites and Earth observation missions.
Solid Propellant Plant (UPG)
The Guiana Propellant Plant mixes and casts the solid fuel for the huge boosters of the Ariane rockets.