St. Laurent – French Guyana Day Tour

Tour description

Go on a cultural and historical journey to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana. This day trip offers insights into the region’s colonial past, including a visit to the infamous prison, and allows participants to experience the unique French atmosphere in the tropics.

Highlights

  • Visit to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana
  • Exploration of the historic prison (Bagno)
  • Scenic boat trip on the Marowijne River
  • Insight into the Surinamese Civil War history
  • Experience of French architecture in a tropical setting

Tour Program 

The tour departs from Paramaribo early in the mornings and begins with a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the border town of Albina. Along the way, travelers will pass historical landmarks such as Stolkertsijver and the Moiwana Monument, both significant to the Surinamese Civil War of the 1980s. Upon reaching Albina, a canoe ride across the Marowijne River brings participants to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni in French Guiana. The first stop is the historic prison, known as the Bagno, established in 1858 and famed through the film ‘L’Affaire Seznec’ and the movie adaptation of ‘Papillon’. After exploring the prison, there’s an opportunity to stroll through local shops and markets, experiencing the vibrant community. The return journey includes a lunch stop in Commewijne before arriving back in Paramaribo around 6:00 PM.

Tour Details

  • Price

    Starting from €105 per person

  • Departure | Minimum

    Every day | 3 persons

  • Duration

    11 hours

  • Tour Type

    Day Tour

Packing List

  • Hat or cap

  • Good walking shoes

  • Camera

  • Raincoat or poncho

  • Sunscreen

  • Backpack for personal belongings

  • Cash (SRD)

  • Passport (required due to checkpoints)

Included/Excluded

  • Included:

    Bus transport

  • Boat transport

  • Guide services

  • Snack

  • Water

  • Lunch

  • Excluded:

    Alcohol & other beverages

  • Entrance fee to Bagno (€6 per person, payable on-site)