Saül: understanding this unique place
Saül is a municipality in the centre of French Guiana, 150km as the crow flies southwest of Cayenne. It has a population of a few hundred — mainly Creoles, Hmong and mainland French who have chosen this timeless village. No road connects it to the rest of the world.
The village developed in the 19th century around the gold rush — its name is that of a Saint Lucian gold prospector, a pioneer of these lands. Today, the gold that draws visitors is of a different nature: 45km of marked trails through one of the best-preserved primary forests in French Guiana, breathtaking panoramas over the canopy, and an end-of-the-world atmosphere that leaves a lasting mark on those who experience it.
Getting there: by plane only
This is the first thing to know — and also part of what makes Saül magical. No road leads there. The only way in is the small plane from Cayenne. And the 45-minute flight over the canopy is already, in itself, an experience.
Flight Cayenne – Saül
Luggage limit: the 15kg hold limit is strictly enforced. Pack light — what you need in Saül is good hiking boots, effective insect repellent and a head torch. Leave heavy suitcases at your hotel in Cayenne.
The 5 trails of Saül: which one to choose?
Saül has 5 marked trails covering 45km in total, spread across several difficulty levels. The trails are well marked and maintained — most day hikes can be done without a guide.
The 5 trails
Ideal 3-day programme:
Day 1: Afternoon arrival + Belvédère at sunset
Day 2: Roche Bateau (full day with swimming stops)
Day 3: Mont La Fumée in the morning + afternoon return flight
This programme is included in our Deep Amazon package.
When to visit
Seasons in Saül
Where to stay
Recommended accommodation
What to pack: tropical DEET repellent ≥30%, head torch with spare batteries, waterproof hiking boots, lightweight rain jacket, day pack, water filter bottle. Products are expensive in Saül (up to €3 for a water bottle) — stock up in Cayenne.
Saül as part of
a complete trip.
Our Deep Amazon package combines 3 nights in Saül (Belvédère, Roche Bateau, Mont La Fumée), an ecolodge at Kaw and the village of Cacao.