The Salvation Islands — comprising Ile Royale, Ile Saint-Joseph, and the notorious Ile du Diable — sit 15 kilometres off the coast of Kourou in French Guiana and rank among the most historically charged destinations in the Americas. The three Atlantic outposts served as the hub of France's tropical penal colony from 1852 to 1953, receiving tens of thousands of convicts transported from metropolitan France. The most famous detainee was Captain Alfred Dreyfus, held in solitary confinement on Ile du Diable from 1895 following his wrongful conviction for treason — a case that polarised French society and eventually led to his exoneration. Today the islands blend restored colonial ruins, dense jungle, and warm Atlantic waters into an unforgettable full-day excursion. From Cayenne, the 60-kilometre journey west to Kourou takes approximately one hour by car or collective taxi; taxis depart from Cayenne's market area for around 10 euros per person. The daily ferry departs Port de Kourou at 07:30 and crosses to Ile Royale in approximately one hour, returning at 17:00 — providing a full day on the islands. Ile Royale is the largest and most developed island. The morning suits the convict-era walking circuit: the former hospital now operates as a butterfly house, the warden's villa and administration building remain largely intact, and a small on-site museum documents the penal system with photographs and artefacts. Spider monkeys and agoutis wander freely among the ruins. A short boat transfer from Ile Royale reaches Ile Saint-Joseph, where roofless solitary-confinement cells open to the equatorial sky form one of the most atmospheric heritage sites in French Guiana. Ile du Diable, where Dreyfus was imprisoned, can be viewed from the water but remains permanently closed to visitors. The sea around Ile Royale is clear and warm; snorkelling equipment is available to rent near the island jetty, and sea turtles, rays, and reef fish are regularly sighted in the shallows. The island's sole restaurant serves Creole and French dishes for approximately 15 to 25 euros per person. Ferry tickets should be booked in advance through Croisieres des Iles in Kourou, particularly during French school holiday periods and the July to August peak season.
How to get there
- Collective taxi Cayenne–Kourou (~€10/person, ~1 hour)
- Car rental (30 min from Kourou port to ferry)
Location
Port de Kourou, Avenue des Roches, 97310 Kourou, French Guiana
5.2833, -52.5833 View on map
Highlights
- Ile Royale's restored penal colony ruins, including the butterfly-house chapel and the warden's intact quarters
- Roofless solitary-confinement cells on Ile Saint-Joseph, open to the equatorial sky — among the most evocative ruins in French Guiana
- Snorkelling in clear Atlantic waters with sea turtles, rays, and reef fish near the island jetty
- Views of the legendary Ile du Diable, where Captain Dreyfus was held in solitary confinement
- Free-roaming spider monkey and agouti colonies living among the convict-era ruins on Ile Royale
Tips for visiting
- Book ferry tickets in advance through Croisieres des Iles in Kourou — the 07:30 departure fills quickly during school holiday periods
- Bring cash; the island restaurant and snorkel-gear rental stalls do not always accept credit cards reliably
- The return ferry departs at 17:00 sharp — there is no late service and missing it means an unplanned overnight on the island
- Pack sun protection, insect repellent, and at least 1.5 litres of water per person — shade is limited outside the forested areas
- Collective taxis from Cayenne to Kourou cost around 10 euros per person and take one hour — a rental car is not required for this trip
When to visit
The islands are accessible year-round. The calmest seas and clearest visibility for snorkelling occur from September through November. Avoid July to August and French school holiday periods when ferry seats sell out quickly.
Accessibility
The ferry has standard boarding facilities, but the islands involve cobblestone paths, steep inclines, and uneven terrain around the colonial ruins. Ile Royale's main circuit is partially navigable but challenging for wheelchair users. Ile Saint-Joseph's access paths are unpaved. Visitors with limited mobility can access the jetty area and immediate surroundings on Ile Royale.
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors access Ile du Diable (Devil's Island)?
No. Ile du Diable has been closed to visitors since the penal colony era. Travellers can view the island from the ferry and from Ile Royale, but no landing is permitted.
How do I reach Kourou from Cayenne to catch the ferry?
Collective taxis depart regularly from Cayenne's Marché Central to Kourou for approximately 10 euros per person, taking about one hour. Car rental provides more flexibility but is not required for this trip.
Is food available on the Salvation Islands?
Ile Royale has one restaurant serving Creole and French cuisine for approximately 15 to 25 euros per person. Ile Saint-Joseph has no food facilities. Bringing extra snacks and water is recommended.
Is snorkelling equipment available on the islands?
Basic snorkelling gear can be rented near the Ile Royale jetty. Bringing personal equipment ensures better fit and guaranteed availability during busy periods.
What is the daily ferry schedule?
The ferry departs Port de Kourou at 07:30 and returns from Ile Royale at 17:00. The crossing takes approximately one hour each way. Verify the current schedule with Croisieres des Iles before travelling.