last edited Dec 11, 2019
Other practical information for French Guiana
Baggage and equipment to bring
At all times, pack light clothing and something warmer for the evenings, as well as protection from rain (and sun) and mosquitoes, especially if you plan to hike in the forest. For the forest, good shoes are recommended, along with plastic sandals or, even better, rubber boots for walking in water. For those who prefer nights in "carbets," bring a hammock with ropes and mosquito net (available locally), as well as a light sleeping bag (nights can be cool) and a headlamp.
Communications
Phone
International dialing code: (00 +) 594.
Internet
The postal service in French Guiana works like in mainland France, with the same postage rates. Allow three to four days for mail delivery between the two.
Time difference
Local time: .
French Guiana, like its neighboring Suriname, is on GMT-3. This means there are 4 hours less in winter and 5 hours less in summer compared to mainland France.
Electricity
220 Volt (50 Hz) with "French" plugs (officially types C and E), which will require an adapter for North American plugs.
Opening hours
Shops and other services are generally open as in mainland France, though they close for meals and have an early-afternoon siesta. Many small grocery stores stay open almost every day until at least 8:00 PM.
Laundromats
Local tourist offices
Weights and measures
French Guiana uses the metric and decimal system, like mainland France.
Use of French
While French is the official language, Guyanese Creole is also widely spoken in the department, with 50,000 to 60,000 speakers.