Situated on the Maroni River, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni is a commune in French Guiana, South America. The town is the second largest in the country and is known for its colonial architecture, tropical climate, and diverse wildlife. From the colonial-era fort to the breathtaking rainforest, here are 20 of the best places to visit in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.
1. Fort Saint-Laurent
Fort Saint-Laurent is a colonial-era fortress located on the banks of the Maroni River. Built in the 18th century, the fort was used to protect the town from Dutch and Portuguese invasions. Today, it serves as a museum and is open to visitors.
2. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Market
The Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Market is one of the best places to experience the local culture. Here, you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.
3. Maroni River
The Maroni River is one of the main attractions of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. The river is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
4. La Saline Nature Reserve
La Saline Nature Reserve is a protected area of mangrove forest and salt marshes. Here, you can see a variety of birds and other wildlife.
5. Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Zoo
The Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and sloths. The zoo also has a petting zoo, where visitors can interact with some of the animals.
6. La Découverte Nature Reserve
La Découverte Nature Reserve is a protected area of rainforest and wetlands. Here, you can find a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and reptiles.
7. La Maison des Esclaves
La Maison des Esclaves is a museum that documents the history of slavery in French Guiana. The museum has interactive exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the region’s past.
8. La Maison des Cultures
La Maison des Cultures is a cultural center that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops.
9. La Cascade des Trois-Rivières
La Cascade des Trois-Rivières is a stunning waterfall located in the rainforest. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
10. La Maison des Papillons
La Maison des Papillons is a butterfly sanctuary where visitors can observe and learn about the region’s unique butterflies.
11. La Maison des Mangroves
La Maison des Mangroves is a research center dedicated to the preservation of the mangrove forests in the area.
12. La Maison des Reptiles
La Maison des Reptiles is a research center dedicated to the study of reptiles in the region. Visitors can observe lizards, snakes, and turtles in their natural habitats.
13. La Maison des Oiseaux
La Maison des Oiseaux is a bird sanctuary where visitors can observe a variety of local and migratory birds.
14. La Maison des Singes
La Maison des Singes is a research center dedicated to the study of monkeys in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of monkey species in their natural habitats.
15. La Maison des Insectes
La Maison des Insectes is a research center dedicated to the study of insects in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of insect species in their natural habitats.
16. La Maison des Tortues
La Maison des Tortues is a research center dedicated to the study of turtles in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of turtle species in their natural habitats.
17. La Maison des Plantes
La Maison des Plantes is a research center dedicated to the study of plants in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of plants in their natural habitats.
18. La Maison des Papillons et des Oiseaux
La Maison des Papillons et des Oiseaux is a research center dedicated to the study of butterflies and birds in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of species in their natural habitats.
19. La Maison des Etoiles
La Maison des Etoiles is an observatory located in the hills outside of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. Here, visitors can observe the stars and planets in the night sky.
20. La Maison des Crocodiles
La Maison des Crocodiles is a research center dedicated to the study of crocodiles in the region. Visitors can observe a variety of crocodile species in their natural habitats.