Kourou travel guide

Kouro is a newly emerging city located on the northern coast of French Guiana, along the banks of the Kourou River. It is situated approximately 40 kilometers northwest from Cayenne, the capital city of French Guiana. This area has a rich history dating back to 1854 when it was first established as a French penal colony. Due to the adverse climate and high humidity, the area was once feared by colonists and was known as the "land of demons" due to the high mortality rate among the prisoners. The city served as a prison for heavy criminals and over 80,000 prisoners were buried here.

Today, visitors to Kourou are fascinated by the city's rich history and captivated by its modern-day transformation. The city's prison museum is a must-visit attraction, providing a glimpse into its dark past and the lives of those who once called Kourou home.

Kouro's prime geographic location near the equator makes it an ideal launch pad for spacecraft. In 1970, France established a space research station and rocket launch base in Kourou, which is now the only spaceport in all of France. The city has since transformed into a renowned hub for space exploration and research, attracting scientists and tourists from around the world.

From its humble beginnings as a penal colony to its current status as a thriving hub of space exploration, Kourou has witnessed a remarkable transformation. The city's rich history, combined with its modern-day significance in the world of space exploration, make it an intriguing destination for visitors seeking an experience that is both historical and futuristic.