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Montagne d'Argent
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Montagne d'Argent is a historically and geographically significant hill on the northeastern coast of French Guiana, situated directly at the mouth of the Oyapock River. With a modest elevation of about 130 meters, it has a strategic vantage point over the Atlantic Ocean and the border with Brazil. The name 'Silver Mountain' derives from legends of buried treasures, but its true significance lies in the numerous archaeological sites containing petroglyphs from pre-Columbian indigenous peoples. During the colonial era, the hill was used for the cultivation of coffee and cocoa, and ruins of old slave quarters can still be found within the dense forest today. Today, Montagne d'Argent is part of a protected coastal area valued for its historical importance as well as its rich flora and fauna. The vegetation consists of a mix of coastal forest and secondary forest that has regenerated since the abandonment of the plantations. Visitors appreciate the site for hikes that combine nature observation with cultural insights into the complex history of the region.
- Location: French Guiana
- Top sights: Bagne de la Montagne d'Argent · Montagne d'Argent · Fausse Montagne d'Argent
- Nearby: Kaw Marshes (51 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 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 308 | 283 | 275 | 377 | 472 | 310 | 201 | 95 | 43 | 50 | 101 | 291 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Being near the coast, this historic elevation is generally much easier to reach than interior mountains. It is usually accessible via a short boat ride or overland trails from nearby settlements.
Best season
While accessible year-round, the dry season from August to December gives a more comfortable hike. The trails can become quite slippery and muddy during periods of heavy tropical rain.
Terrain & paths
The terrain features moderate slopes overgrown with coastal vegetation and remnants of historic settlements. The paths can be uneven and occasionally blocked by rapid plant growth.
What to bring
Standard sturdy hiking boots, strong insect repellent, and plenty of drinking water are usually sufficient. A light machete can be useful to clear overgrown sections of the historical paths.
Parking
Visitors can typically find parking spots in the nearby coastal villages or near the boat departure points. It is generally safe to leave vehicles there for the duration of the hike.
Safety
While less isolated, visitors should still watch out for snakes, spiders, and tropical heat exhaustion. Staying hydrated and keeping to visible paths is highly recommended.
Time needed
A visit to this coastal elevation typically takes a half-day to a full day. It is a manageable excursion compared to the massive expeditions required for the deep interior.
Geography
Facts
- The hill is approximately 130 meters high.
- It contains petroglyphs that are over 1,000 years old.
- The first French Jesuit mission was established here in 1731.
- The site is located just a few kilometers from the town of Oiapoque in Brazil.
- The area has been protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral since 1998.
- More than 40 different archaeological sites have been registered on the hill.
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.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Montagne d'Argent (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Montagne d'Argent?
A hill rich in history at the mouth of the Oyapock River into the Atlantic Ocean.
Are there hiking trails there?
Yes, there are marked hiking trails that lead through the forest to historical remains and viewpoints.
What historical significance does the place have?
It used to be home to plantations and an outpost of the notorious Guiana penal system.
Can you see the Atlantic Ocean from there?
Yes, the viewpoints offer a panoramic view of the river mouth and the open sea.
How do you get to Montagne d'Argent?
Mostly by boat from Saint-Georges-de-l'Oyapock. It is a popular day trip.
Montagne d'Argent: where is it located?
Montagne d'Argent is located in French Guiana.
Montagne d'Argent: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bagne de la Montagne d'Argent, Montagne d'Argent, Fausse Montagne d'Argent.
Montagne d'Argent: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Montagne d'Argent: why is it worth visiting?
Montagne d'Argent is a historically and geographically significant hill on the northeastern coast of French Guiana, situated directly at the mouth of the Oyapock River.
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History & landmarks
Oyapock River Bridge
An international cable-stayed bridge over the Oyapock River, connecting Saint-Georges in French Guiana to Oiapoque in Brazil.
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.
Félix Éboué House
The historical birthplace of famous politician Félix Éboué, which today is a small museum about Guiana's history.
Saint-Sauveur Cathedral
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Thérèse and Léon Blum House
A historic building in Cayenne connected with important figures of French history.
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Régina Forest
Extensive jungle areas in the east of French Guiana around the municipality of Régina.
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Kaw Mountain
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Îlet la Mère Monkey Island
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