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The Salvation Islands form an archipelago located approximately 11 kilometres off the coast of French Guiana, near Kourou. The group consists of three main islands: Île Royale, Île Saint-Joseph and Devil's Island. Île Royale, the largest of the three, is home to the restored remains of the penal colony buildings. Île Saint-Joseph is dominated by a crumbling penitentiary, while Devil's Island — the most remote — was the site of Captain Alfred Dreyfus's imprisonment. Sandy beaches, clear waters and tropical vegetation make up the natural setting of the islands.
The Salvation Islands combine a rich historical legacy linked to the penal colony era with well-preserved island nature. Visitors can explore restored buildings and trails that wind across the islands. Thanks to their protected status as a nature reserve, the islands are home to varied wildlife: seabirds, iguanas, agoutis and sea turtles (green turtles and hawksbill turtles). Dolphins and humpback whales are sometimes spotted offshore during the crossing. Visitors are encouraged to respect this fragile environment.
The history of the Salvation Islands is shaped by the establishment of the penal colony under the Second Empire, when Napoleon III decided to use the islands as a place of detention. Forced labour and escape attempts have defined the memory of the place, immortalised by writers such as Henri Charrière, author of "Papillon". The penal colony closed in 1953, and the islands have gradually been transformed into a place of remembrance and tourism.
The islands are accessible by boat only. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes depending on sea conditions. Several companies offer trips; booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season. Bring sunscreen, water and a hat. Boats generally return to Kourou in the late afternoon — check return times with your operator.
Departures are mainly from the port of Kourou. Schedules vary by operator and weather conditions: check departure times before your visit and book your place in advance.
The islands are accessible by boat only, departing from the port of Kourou. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes depending on sea conditions.
The archipelago consists of Île Royale (the largest, with the remains of the penal colony), Île Saint-Joseph (a ruined penitentiary) and Devil's Island, where Captain Alfred Dreyfus was detained.
The islands, classified as a nature reserve, are home to seabirds, iguanas, agoutis and sea turtles. Dolphins and humpback whales are sometimes spotted offshore during excursions.
Yes, booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, as places are limited and schedules depend on operators and weather conditions.
« Endroit magique, on a vu deux toucans en arrivant ! Sentier bien balisé, parfait pour la matinée. »
« Super site, l'eau est cristalline. Petit bémol : prévoir des chaussures qui tiennent bien, ça glisse. »
« Tip BTK validé : on y est allés à 8h, on était seuls. Vers midi c'est beaucoup plus fréquenté. »
« On a passé l'après-midi ici en famille, les enfants ont adoré la baignade. Vraiment un coup de cœur. »
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