Tucked into the northeastern corner of South America, the Three Guianas form one of the continent's least-explored regions. Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana share dense Amazon rainforests, diverse wildlife, and fascinating multicultural heritage - yet each offers a distinctly different travel experience.
If you're considering a trip to this enigmatic corner of the world, you've likely asked yourself: Which one should I visit? Can I see all three? Which fits my budget and interests?
This guide cuts through the confusion. Rather than just listing features, we'll help you make a decision based on what matters most to you - whether that's wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, adventure, or value for money.
Quick Overview: The Three Guianas at a Glance
🇬🇾 Guyana
🇸🇷 Suriname
🇫🇷 French Guiana
Cost Comparison: Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury
Money matters, and the Three Guianas vary significantly in cost. Here's what you can realistically expect to spend.
| Expense | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Accommodation | $25-50/night | $16-40/night | $50-100/night (hammock: $6-20) |
| Mid-Range Hotel | $80-150/night | $60-120/night | $100-200/night |
| Cheap Meal | $3-8 | $4-8 | $7-15 |
| Restaurant Meal | $10-25 | $10-20 | $15-40 |
| Daily Budget (Backpacker) | $50-80 | $70-100 | $100-150 |
| Daily Budget (Mid-Range) | $120-200 | $100-150 | $150-250 |
| Cost vs. US | 26% cheaper | 34% cheaper | 28% more expensive |
The Bottom Line on Costs
Guyana and Suriname are affordable destinations comparable to budget-friendly parts of South America. French Guiana operates on European pricing - everything from food to hotels costs significantly more because goods are imported from France. Budget travelers should factor in French Guiana's hammock culture (sleeping in a hammock at guesthouses for $6-20) to keep costs manageable.
Main Attractions: What Each Country Offers
Guyana: The Wildlife Kingdom
Guyana is South America's undiscovered eco-tourism gem. Over 80% of the country is pristine rainforest, and its wildlife viewing rivals East Africa's savannahs.
- Kaieteur Falls - The world's most powerful waterfall by volume. A single drop of 226 meters into a remote gorge, surrounded by endemic golden frogs and tank bromeliads. Accessible only by small plane.
- Rupununi Savannahs - Vast grasslands where giant anteaters roam and indigenous Makushi communities share their traditions. The best jaguar-tracking territory in South America.
- Iwokrama Rainforest - A 371,000-hectare conservation area with canopy walkways, harpy eagle nests, and world-class birding (900+ species in Guyana).
- Giant River Otters - Karanambu Ranch is one of the best places on Earth to observe these playful 6-foot predators.
- Georgetown - A faded colonial capital with wooden Caribbean architecture, vibrant markets, and the world's largest wooden cathedral.
Suriname: The Cultural Mosaic
Suriname is the Three Guianas' most culturally diverse destination. Where else can you find a mosque, synagogue, and Hindu temple standing side by side?
- Paramaribo - A UNESCO World Heritage city where Dutch colonial architecture meets Caribbean color. Unique wooden buildings, excellent Indonesian and Javanese food, and laid-back nightlife.
- Maroon Villages - Travel up the Suriname River to visit descendants of escaped enslaved Africans who've preserved their traditions for 300+ years. Experience traditional dance, crafts, and cuisine.
- Brownsberg Nature Park - A 12,000-hectare rainforest reserve with howler monkeys, stunning waterfalls, and views over the massive Brokopondo Reservoir.
- Central Suriname Nature Reserve - A 1.6-million-hectare UNESCO World Heritage site (one of the largest protected tropical forests globally). Home to jaguars, giant armadillos, and 400 bird species.
- Galibi Nature Reserve - Sea turtle nesting beaches where four species come ashore.
French Guiana: Space Age Meets Prison History
French Guiana is the most surreal destination - a piece of the European Union dropped into the Amazon jungle, famous for rocket launches and a notorious penal colony.
- Guiana Space Centre (Kourou) - Europe's spaceport, launching Ariane rockets that have put two-thirds of all Western satellites into orbit. Free tours available (book 48+ hours ahead).
- Iles du Salut (Devil's Island) - The infamous French penal colony where Captain Alfred Dreyfus and Henri Charriere (Papillon) were imprisoned. Haunting ruins on tropical islands.
- Cayenne - A Creole capital with French patisseries, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Sample cayenne pepper's namesake dishes.
- Leatherback Sea Turtles - The Amana Nature Reserve hosts one of the world's largest leatherback nesting beaches (best: April-July).
- Guiana Amazonian Park - The EU's largest national park, covering 41% of French Guiana with virtually untouched rainforest.
Wildlife Comparison: Where to See What
| Wildlife | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaguar | Best - Rupununi tracking | Present in CSNR | Rare sightings |
| Giant River Otter | Best - Karanambu, Rupununi | Good - rivers | Rare |
| Giant Anteater | Best - Rupununi savannahs | Good - reserves | Present |
| Harpy Eagle | Best - Iwokrama nests | CSNR | Rare |
| Sea Turtles | Shell Beach - 4 species | Galibi - 4 species | Best - Leatherback (Amana) |
| Primates (8+ species) | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Birding (species count) | Best - 900+ species | 700+ species | 700+ species |
Wildlife Verdict
Guyana wins for wildlife, particularly for big species like jaguars, giant river otters, harpy eagles, and giant anteaters. The Rupununi savannahs and Iwokrama rainforest offer some of South America's best (and least crowded) wildlife viewing. French Guiana is the exception for leatherback sea turtles, with one of the world's most important nesting beaches.
Cultural Experiences Compared
| Culture | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colonial Heritage | British - wooden architecture | Best - UNESCO Paramaribo | French colonial |
| Indigenous Communities | Best - Makushi, Wapishana villages | Good - accessible | Limited access |
| African Heritage | Afro-Guyanese culture | Best - Maroon villages | Bushinengue communities |
| Religious Diversity | Hindu, Muslim, Christian | Best - all major religions | Catholic majority |
| Asian Influence | Indo-Guyanese (40%) | Best - Javanese, Chinese, Indian | Hmong communities |
| Historic Sites | Georgetown architecture | Fort Zeelandia, plantations | Best - Devil's Island |
Food Scene: What You'll Eat
All three Guianas share a unique fusion cuisine, but each has distinct flavors.
Guyana
Caribbean-meets-Indian cuisine. Must-try: Pepperpot (Amerindian meat stew), curry and roti, cook-up rice, metemgee, and Banks beer. Street food culture thrives with pholourie, doubles, and fried fish.
Suriname
The most diverse food scene. Must-try: Pom (root vegetable casserole), Surinamese nasi (Indonesian fried rice), roti, peanut soup, and goedangan (vegetable salad). Javanese warungs and Indian roti shops abound.
French Guiana
French techniques with Creole spice. Must-try: Bouillon d'awara (palm fruit stew), fricassee, fresh baguettes, patisseries, and Vietnamese pho (from immigrant communities). Expect higher prices but excellent quality.
Food Verdict
Suriname wins for food diversity and value - you can eat Javanese, Indian, Chinese, Dutch, and Creole cuisine all in Paramaribo. Guyana offers the best street food value and Caribbean flavors. French Guiana has the highest quality (and prices) with genuine French baked goods and restaurants.
Visa and Entry Requirements
| Requirement | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free, 90 days | E-visa required ($50) | Visa-free, 90 days |
| EU Citizens | Visa-free, 90 days | E-visa required | Free entry (EU territory) |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free, 90 days | E-visa required | Visa-free, 90 days |
| Yellow Fever | Required if from endemic area | Required if from endemic area | Required if from endemic area |
| Passport Validity | 3 months beyond stay | 6 months beyond stay | 3 months beyond stay |
Suriname E-Visa Warning
Suriname is the only country requiring advance visa arrangements. Apply for your e-visa at least 3-5 days before travel through the official Suriname E-Visa website. It costs $50 USD and requires filling out the online immigration form (mandatory since November 2024).
Safety Comparison
| Safety Factor | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Travel Advisory | Level 3 - Reconsider | Level 1 - Normal | Level 1 - Normal |
| Violent Crime | Higher in Georgetown | Low | Low-moderate |
| Petty Crime | Common in cities | Common in cities | Moderate |
| Interior/Tourist Areas | Very safe | Very safe | Very safe |
| Healthcare | Limited outside Georgetown | Limited outside Paramaribo | French/EU standard |
Safety Reality Check
Don't let Guyana's Level 3 advisory deter you completely. The warning primarily concerns Georgetown street crime - interior lodges and tourist areas are safe, and travelers on organized tours rarely encounter issues. That said, Suriname's lower crime rates make it objectively the safest of the three. French Guiana benefits from French/EU security standards and healthcare.
Language Considerations
- Guyana: English is the official language - no language barrier for English speakers. This is the only English-speaking country in South America.
- Suriname: Dutch is official, but Sranan Tongo (Creole) is widely spoken. English is commonly understood in tourist areas and by younger generations. You'll manage fine with English.
- French Guiana: French only. English is rarely spoken outside major hotels and tour operators. Basic French is highly recommended, or travel with translation apps.
Language Verdict
English speakers will find Guyana easiest, Suriname manageable, and French Guiana challenging. If you don't speak French, consider French Guiana as part of an organized tour or be prepared for more limited interactions.
Your Decision Guide: Which Guiana to Choose
Choose Based on Your Priorities
Unmatched jaguar tracking, giant river otters, harpy eagles, and Kaieteur Falls. The Rupununi and Iwokrama offer world-class eco-tourism with minimal crowds.
UNESCO-listed Paramaribo, Maroon villages preserving 300-year-old traditions, incredible religious diversity, and the most interesting food scene.
Watch rocket launches at Europe's spaceport, explore Devil's Island's haunting prison ruins, and experience the EU in the Amazon jungle.
Both offer good value, with Guyana slightly cheaper for food and Suriname for accommodation. Avoid French Guiana on a tight budget.
Multi-day jungle treks, jaguar tracking expeditions, remote indigenous village stays, and challenging overland journeys to the interior.
Most accessible, safest, easiest logistics, and offers a taste of everything - culture, nature, history - without extremes of cost or difficulty.
Premium eco-lodges like Karanambu and Rewa offer exclusive wildlife experiences. French Guiana has European standards but limited luxury options.
The only English-speaking country in South America. No language barriers whatsoever.
Can You Visit All Three in One Trip?
Yes, and many travelers do. The Three Guianas share borders and can be crossed overland, making a combined trip both possible and rewarding.
Crossing Between Countries
Guyana to Suriname
- Route: Georgetown to Paramaribo via Canawaima Ferry
- Ferry: Departs 10am daily from Moleson Creek, takes 45 minutes across the Corentyne River ($20 USD)
- Total journey: 6-8 hours including overland transport
- Note: Don't use illegal water taxis ("backtracking") - it can result in arrest
Suriname to French Guiana
- Route: Paramaribo to Cayenne via Albina border crossing
- River crossing: Pirogue boat from Albina to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni (15 minutes, $5 EUR)
- Total journey: 5-6 hours including road transport
- Note: Immigration closes at 5:30pm; arrive early
Sample 2-Week Three Guianas Itinerary
Logistics Note
There are no flights between the Three Guianas - all travel between them is overland. Most visitors fly into Georgetown (Guyana) or Cayenne (French Guiana) for international connections. Paramaribo has limited international flights. Plan your entry/exit points carefully.
Best Time to Visit Each Country
| Season | Guyana | Suriname | French Guiana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Feb-April, Sept-Nov | Feb-March, Aug-Nov | Oct-April (dry season) |
| Wet Season | May-Aug, Nov-Jan | April-Aug, Dec-Jan | May-September |
| Wildlife Peak | Sept-Nov (dry savannahs) | Feb-April | April-July (turtles) |
| Budget Season | May-August | May-Aug, Dec-Jan | May-September |
Tour Operators for Combined Trips
Several operators specialize in multi-country Guianas trips:
- Wilderness Explorers (Guyana-based) - Best for Guyana-focused trips with Suriname extensions
- Travel The Guianas - Specialists in all three countries with customizable itineraries
- Adventures Abroad - Small group tours covering all Three Guianas (12-day tours from ~$2,500)
- Last Frontiers - Luxury custom itineraries across the region
- Young Pioneer Tours - Budget-friendly group departures
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View Tour OperatorsFrequently Asked Questions
Can you visit all three Guianas in one trip?
Yes, and it's a popular way to explore the region. The three countries share borders and can be crossed overland by ferry and boat. A comprehensive trip covering all three typically requires 2-3 weeks. Popular routes go from Georgetown (Guyana) to Paramaribo (Suriname) via ferry, then to Cayenne (French Guiana) by boat and road.
Which of the three Guianas is cheapest to visit?
Guyana is generally the cheapest of the three Guianas for daily expenses, followed closely by Suriname. French Guiana is significantly more expensive as it uses the Euro and has European-level prices for accommodation, food, and transport. Budget travelers can manage on $50-80/day in Guyana, $70-100/day in Suriname, but need at least $100-150/day in French Guiana.
Which Guiana is best for wildlife viewing?
Guyana offers the best overall wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for iconic species like jaguars, giant river otters, harpy eagles, and giant anteaters. The Rupununi savannahs and Iwokrama rainforest provide some of South America's most pristine wildlife habitat. Suriname's Central Suriname Nature Reserve is also excellent, while French Guiana is specifically notable for leatherback sea turtle nesting.
Do I need a visa for the three Guianas?
For US citizens: Guyana offers visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days. Suriname requires an e-visa ($50 USD) obtained online before arrival. French Guiana, as part of France and the EU, allows visa-free entry for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Requirements vary by nationality - check before traveling. All three require Yellow Fever vaccination if arriving from endemic areas.
Which Guiana is safest for travelers?
Suriname is generally considered the safest of the three Guianas, with a US Level 1 travel advisory (exercise normal precautions). French Guiana benefits from EU-level security and healthcare. Guyana has a Level 3 advisory due to higher crime rates in Georgetown, though interior tourist areas and eco-lodges are considered very safe with normal precautions.
What languages are spoken in each Guiana?
Guyana speaks English - it's the only English-speaking country in South America. Suriname's official language is Dutch, though most people also speak Sranan Tongo (Creole) and English is widely understood in tourist areas. French Guiana speaks French as its official language, with limited English outside tourist establishments.
How do you travel between the three Guianas?
There are no flights between the countries - all crossings are overland. Guyana to Suriname: Take the Canawaima Ferry across the Corentyne River ($20 USD, departs 10am daily). Suriname to French Guiana: Travel to Albina, then take a pirogue boat across the Maroni River to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni ($5 EUR, 15 minutes). From there, shared transport continues to Cayenne.
What are the main attractions in each Guiana?
Guyana: Kaieteur Falls (world's most powerful single-drop waterfall), Rupununi savannahs (jaguar tracking), Iwokrama rainforest (canopy walkway, harpy eagles). Suriname: UNESCO-listed Paramaribo, Brownsberg Nature Park, Maroon village experiences, Central Suriname Nature Reserve. French Guiana: Guiana Space Centre (rocket launches), Iles du Salut (Devil's Island prison), leatherback turtle nesting.
Last updated: January 2026. Entry requirements and prices may change - verify current information before traveling. For Guyana-specific planning, explore our experiences page or browse our travel guides.