Îles du Salut
French Guiana
The Salvation Islands, known in French as Îles du Salut, are a trio of small volcanic islands located about 11 kilometers off the coast of French Guiana in the Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago comprises three main islands: Devil's Island (Île du Diable), Île Royale, and Saint-Joseph Island. These islands gained notoriety as a penal colony from 1852 until 1953, housing France's most dangerous criminals and political prisoners, including the infamous Captain Alfred Dreyfus. Île Royale served as the reception center with moderate freedom due to its natural isolation, Saint-Joseph was reserved for solitary confinement punishment, and Devil's Island was exclusively for political prisoners. The penal colony was infamous for its brutal conditions, tropical diseases, and prisoner violence, which contributed to its controversial reputation. Today, the islands are protected natural reserves managed by Conservatoire du littoral and attract tourists fascinated by their history and natural environment. The tropical savanna climate on Royale Island features warm temperatures year-round and significant rainfall, contributing to the islands' lush vegetation and scenic beaches. The islands have also inspired literature, notably Henri Charrière's autobiography "Papillon" and Joseph Conrad's short story "An Anarchist."
Plan your trip to France with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their trip during the dry season for more comfortable weather. Booking tours or ferry tickets in advance is recommended due to limited access and popularity. The islands are protected areas, so visitors should respect regulations and avoid disturbing wildlife. Guided tours often provide the best historical insights and access to key sites. No specific ticket prices are mentioned but inquire about possible discounts for groups or students.
Interesting facts
- •Devil's Island is famous for imprisoning Captain Alfred Dreyfus, a political prisoner convicted of treason in the 1890s.
- •The penal colony on the Salvation Islands was notorious for its brutal conditions and high mortality due to tropical diseases.
- •The islands inspired Henri Charrière's autobiography "Papillon," recounting his imprisonment and escape.
- •The Salvation Islands are managed as protected areas by Conservatoire du littoral since 1979.
- •The islands have a tropical savanna climate with an average annual temperature of about 27.6°C and significant rainfall, especially in May.
History
The Salvation Islands penal colony was established in 1852 and operated until 1953, serving as a detention site for France's worst criminals and political prisoners.
Île Royale functioned as the main reception and housing area, Saint-Joseph Island was used for solitary confinement as punishment, and Devil's Island was reserved for political prisoners such as Captain Alfred Dreyfus in the late 19th century.
The colony became infamous for harsh conditions, tropical diseases, and prisoner violence.
Over time, the penal system was phased out, and the islands transitioned into protected natural reserves managed since 1979.
Today, they serve as a historical reminder and tourist destination.
Place Guide
Île Royale (Royal Island)
The largest island of the group, Île Royale served as the main reception center for prisoners. It features ruins of prison buildings and natural trails showcasing the island's tropical environment.
Saint-Joseph Island
Used primarily for solitary confinement, this island was where prisoners were punished by isolation in silence and darkness for offenses or escape attempts. Ruins of confinement cells remain.
Devil's Island (Île du Diable)
The most infamous of the islands, Devil's Island housed political prisoners including Captain Alfred Dreyfus. It is known for its harsh conditions and historical significance in French penal history.
