Is French Guiana Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

French Guiana, despite being a part of France, possesses unique safety concerns. Crime rates are moderate but foreign travelers can be targeted for petty theft, especially in larger towns like Cayenne. It's highly advisable to remain vigilant about your surroundings, avoid isolated areas and travel in groups when possible. At the same time, French Guiana possesses good infrastructure and is generally safe for women, as long as standard precautions are taken.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is French Guiana?

Safety at night:Moderate

French Guiana, while generally safe, does have areas where caution should be exercised, particularly at night. As a woman traveling alone, sticking to well-lit and populated areas can minimize the risk. Residential areas and the outskirts of cities should be avoided at night due to higher incidences of crime. It is always advised to use local reliable taxis for night time travel than walking alone. Adequate safety measures should be taken into account.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in French Guiana, while generally reliable, can present some safety issues. During peak hours, it could get crowded which might lead to pickpocketing incidents. Also, services are limited outside urban areas and may be sporadic during certain times of the day. However, most buses and taxis are in good condition and adhere to safety standards.

Street harassment:Low

In French Guiana, you may experience attention if you stand out as a tourist, and there could be instances of catcalling or staring. But generally, it is a respectful culture and major instances of street harassment are not widespread. It's advised to maintain basic precautions, especially after dark.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can be an issue in tourist areas and crowded streets of French Guiana, especially in the capital city of Cayenne. It becomes fairly common during festivals or large events. However, it is generally lower in smaller towns and rural areas.