Travel Vaccines and Advice for French Guiana
French Guiana is a territory of France and part of the European Union. It is surrounded by Brazil on the South and East, Suriname on the West, and the Atlantic Ocean on the Northeast.
The territory’s population is made of Creole, with minorities being French, Haitians and other groups.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for French Guiana?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in French Guiana
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to French Guiana?
What Is the Climate Like in French Guiana?
How Safe Is French Guiana?
What Should I Pack for French Guiana?
U.S. Embassy for French Guiana
Do I Need Vaccines for French Guiana?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for French Guiana. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for French Guiana: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Active transmission is reported in the region but is uncommon. Travelers to more rural regions should be vaccinated. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for French Guiana |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Active transmission is reported in the region but is uncommon. Travelers to more rural regions should be vaccinated. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for French Guiana |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious illness transmitted through contaminated food and water. Prevention strategies include vaccination as well as practicing strict hygiene and safe food handling.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when traveling to high-risk areas.
- Yellow Fever – Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti and Haemagogus species. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, and the vaccine is highly effective.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can be prevented through measures like mosquito repellent use. Vaccination provides the best form of protection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a vital tool in the prevention of this liver infection, recommended for all travelers and essential for healthcare workers and those at higher risk of exposure.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
Yellow Fever in French Guiana
Yellow fever is present throughout French Guiana. Travelers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country. As yellow fever is common in French Guiana, proof of vaccination may be required when entering another country.
Malaria in French Guiana
Malaria transmission is limited to regions bordering Brazil and Suriname, especially in the areas associated with gold mining. Travelers to these regions are advised to take antimalarials to stay protected.
Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.
Yellow fever is a risk to travelers to French Guiana. Make sure you’ve been vaccinated.
Malaria, dengue and Zika are also present. Be sure to bring and use mosquito netting and repellent. Antimalarials may also be recommended based on your itinerary.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in French Guiana
Prevent Bug Bites in French Guiana
In case of bug bites, cleanse the area, use anti-itch treatments, and resist scratching to prevent infection. Seek medical help for severe reactions or if symptoms of vector-borne diseases emerge post-bite.
Food and Water Safety in French Guiana
Safely enjoying meals abroad involves precautions like washing hands, avoiding street food, and consuming well-cooked dishes. Opt for bottled or canned drinks and stay vigilant about seal integrity. Preventing travelers’ diarrhea means maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding raw foods, and selecting reputable eateries.
Infections To Be Aware of in French Guiana
- Chagas disease (American Trypanosomiasis) – The parasitic Chagas disease spreads via kissing bug bites, and prevention involves insecticide use and insect avoidance.
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis spreads via sand fly bites but can also be transmitted through other means. Prevention includes using insect repellents, covering up, and staying indoors during sand fly activity.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, is primarily spread through mosquito bites and can cause serious health issues. Prevention strategies include using mosquito repellent and practicing safe sex.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to French Guiana?
No, you do not need a visa to travel to French Guiana. You do need a passport with a blank page for each stamp and three months validity.
French Guiana Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to French Guiana? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of French Guiana and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in French Guiana?
French Guiana has a warm and wet tropical climate with even temperatures year round. The trade winds help stabilize the coastal weather.
The dry season is from June to November and the wet season is from December to May. The northwest has consistent rainfall while the rest of French Guiana follows dry and rainy season patterns. The Marawijne River regularly floods surrounding areas with all the rainfall it gets.
The coolest month for French Guiana is January. September is both the driest and warmest month with May being the wettest. Cayenne, the capital city, has average daily highs of the mid 80’s, sometimes going up to the low 90’s.
French Guiana is typically away from standard hurricane routes.
How Safe Is French Guiana?
Avoid mosquitoes and other bugs
Insect-borne disease are a
threat throughout the world.
Keep the bugs away with
Passport Health’s repellent options!
According to the U.S. Department of State, French Guiana is usually a safe place for travelers as it is quite remote. Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe while there.
Avoid flaunting wealth and take necessary precautions in French Guiana. Petty street crime can be common in the major cities especially.
Travelers wishing to go deep into French Guiana should only use well-established sources and tour companies.
What Should I Pack for French Guiana?
If you are going to travel to French Guiana, you should pack for a hot and humid climate. Here are some things you should bring:
- Clothes that are lightweight and comfortable.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
- Bug spray to keep mosquitoes away.
- Shoes that are good for walking and hiking.
- A rain jacket or poncho in case it rains.
- A travel adapter for your electronic devices.
- Any medicine you need and a basic first-aid kit.
- A French phrasebook to help you communicate with locals.
French Guiana is a sunny place, but it can rain suddenly, and mosquitoes are common, so it’s important to be prepared. Pack comfortable clothes and shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, and a rain jacket or poncho. Don’t forget any medicine you need and a basic first-aid kit. If you’re coming from a country with a different type of plug, bring a travel adapter.
It can be helpful to know some French phrases to communicate with locals.
U.S. Embassy for French Guiana
All Americans visiting French Guiana should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can contact the nearest embassy in Paramaribo, Suriname for help with emergencies like lost passports, medical issues, or if you are the victim of a crime. They can also give you information about local laws and customs and tips for staying safe while you travel.
U.S. Embassy Paramaribo
165 Kristalstraat
Paramaribo, Suriname
Telephone: (597) 556-700
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (597) 710-1112
Fax: (597) 551-524
You can find more information on the embassy’s website or by contacting them directly.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for French Guiana
Overall rating: 5 stars – 4 reviews
★★★★★
“Extremely Detailed“
“The nurse was very detailed in her review about my trip plans to French Guiana. She focused on not only when but where I would be traveling withing the country. Overall, Passport is the best and most comprehensive place to go for any traveling or health-related questions concerning immunizations.”
Submitted by: Martin
★★★★★
“Nice Work!“
“Christina did a nice job advising me in preparation for my upcoming trip to French Guiana.”
Submitted by: James
★★★★★
“Best Customer Service“
“For one that really hates shots, both of the resources I have met with at Passport Health have been so understanding and helpful through this whole process of getting vaccinated prior to my trip to French Guiana. It has made the process bearable!! Thanks so much.”
Submitted by: Marlo
★★★★★
“Incredible“
“I have been using Passport Health for the past 5 years of international travel, but this past experience has been the best ever. The nurse was incredible in giving me the shots I needed, but also the information that was so helpful in preparing me for our trip to French Guiana, and later this Summer to India and Nepal. I can strongly recommend using Passport Health. I look forward to using their passport service for my next trip.”
Submitted by: Daniel
“The nurse was very detailed in her review about my trip plans to French Guiana. She focused on not only when but where I would be traveling withing the country. Overall, Passport is the best and most comprehensive place to go for any traveling or health-related questions concerning immunizations.”
“Christina did a nice job advising me in preparation for my upcoming trip to French Guiana.”
“For one that really hates shots, both of the resources I have met with at Passport Health have been so understanding and helpful through this whole process of getting vaccinated prior to my trip to French Guiana. It has made the process bearable!! Thanks so much.”
“I have been using Passport Health for the past 5 years of international travel, but this past experience has been the best ever. The nurse was incredible in giving me the shots I needed, but also the information that was so helpful in preparing me for our trip to French Guiana, and later this Summer to India and Nepal. I can strongly recommend using Passport Health. I look forward to using their passport service for my next trip.”
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