Île Royale Adventure Tours

Île Royale (Royal Island), the largest of French Guiana’s Îles du Salut (Islands of Salvation), is a place where history and nature intermingle in striking contrast. Once the administrative center of the infamous French penal colony, the island now welcomes visitors to explore its storied past—crumbling prison cells, officers’ quarters, and a colonial chapel remain, shaded by palm trees and tangled vines. Though somber in its history, the island is peaceful today, with resident peacocks, agoutis, and ocean breezes softening its once-harsh edges. Accessible by boat from Kourou, Île Royale offers a haunting but captivating window into the penal system that operated here from the mid-1800s to 1953. Well-marked trails lead visitors through the ruins, while viewpoints reveal sweeping vistas of the Atlantic and the nearby, forbidden Devil’s Island. Whether you’re drawn by the historical weight or the quiet natural beauty, Île Royale offers a reflective and memorable stop on any journey through French Guiana.