Zoo of French Guiana
French Guiana
The French Guiana Zoo, located between Macouria and Montsinéry in French Guiana, is the only zoological park in the region, showcasing more than 75 species and over 450 individual animals, many of which are protected. Founded in 1983 originally as a hummingbird breeding center called Fauna Flora Amazonica, it evolved into a full zoo by 1985. After a closure in 2007 due to aging facilities, it was purchased and reopened in 2008 by Franck and Angélique Chaulet, known for managing other notable zoos in the Caribbean. The zoo features a diverse collection including monkeys, sloths, anteaters, harpy eagles, caimans, jaguars, and a wide variety of birds, with a special aviary near the entrance named after Eugène Bellony, a pioneer of animal parks in French Guiana. Visitors can enjoy a treetop path through the canopy, offering an immersive experience in the Amazonian forest. The zoo plays an important role in wildlife conservation and care through its affiliated wildlife rescue center KA’ACIQUE, contributing actively to the protection of local fauna. It is also a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria and is recognized as one of the top tourist attractions in French Guiana.
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Tip: The zoo is open Wednesday to Sunday, with the best visits during dry season months when animals are more active. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to avoid queues. The zoo offers accessible, well-marked trails and a canopy walk, suitable for families and children. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and children. Visitors are encouraged to allocate over two hours to fully explore the trails and exhibits.
Interesting facts
- •The zoo is the only zoological park in French Guiana and the second most visited tourist site after the Salvation Islands.
- •It houses over 75 species native to the region, many of which are protected.
- •The aviary near the entrance is named after Eugène Bellony, who opened the first animal park in French Guiana in the 1930s.
- •The zoo includes a treetop canopy walk, allowing visitors to experience the forest from above.
- •It is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, reflecting its commitment to conservation and animal welfare.
History
The zoo began in 1983 as Fauna Flora Amazonica, a hummingbird breeding center established by Rudolf Watschinger.
It transitioned into a full zoological park in 1985.
In 2002, the communes of Macouria and Montsinéry-Tonnegrande took ownership but closed it in 2007 due to outdated infrastructure.
In 2008, Franck and Angélique Chaulet acquired and renovated the park, reopening it as the French Guiana Zoo.
Since then, it has expanded with new facilities such as the 2014 aviary honoring Eugène Bellony, a historical figure who opened the first animal park in the region in the 1930s.
Place Guide
Aviary named after Eugène Bellony2014
An aviary housing 40 parrots and other birds, named in honor of Eugène Bellony, who opened the first animal park in French Guiana during the 1930s. It serves as an introduction to the region's rich avian biodiversity.
Treetop Canopy Path
A suspended walkway through the forest canopy designed especially for children, offering a unique perspective on the Amazonian flora and fauna from above the ground.
Wildlife Rescue Center KA’ACIQUE
An affiliated center dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of wild animals, contributing to the conservation of French Guiana's natural heritage. It evolved from the former SOS Faune Sauvage Antilles-Guyane association.
Contact
Phone: 0594 31 73 06
