Nature trails of CNES in French Guiana
CNES owns other trails in addition to those located on the site of Europe’s Spaceport. It manages them alongside partners such as the French National Forests Office, to make this natural heritage accessible to everyone.
Monkey Mountain Trail
Located on the Route du Dégrad Saramaca, the Monkey Mountain trail stretches over approximately 4 km. At the top of the steeply sloping path, you will find a traditional shelter known as a “carbet” and stunning views of the town of Kourou, the Salvation Islands, the facilities of Europe’s Spaceport and the forest canopy. That makes it a prime spot from which to observe Ariane 6 and Vega-C lift-offs. An 800-metre botanical trail has also been set up to teach visitors about the plant species found in the forest.

Anse Trail
Covering some 7.7 km, the longest trail at Europe’s Spaceport is located near the town of Sinnamary. It is co-managed by the local council and the French National Forests Office. The trail, which includes an observation shelter and picnic tables, takes walkers through a number of natural environments, including a marsh.

Trail through the leisure area
Including a 4.4-km loop in the forest and a 1.2-km paved stretch along the piste du coq, the trail running through the leisure area is suitable for family walk, running or cycling. Located between Europe’s Spaceport and Kourou, close to the golf course in the leisure area, the site is a regular wildlife observation spot.

Trails on the Salvation Islands
Both Royale Island and Saint-Joseph Island have a nature trail that loops around each island. The easy family walks take you past the remains of the penal colony and offer views of the mainland and other islands.
