Chutes Voltaire : Éclat de Saint-Laurent

Overview

The Voltaire stream is located in western French Guiana, in the territory of Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni. A tributary of the Sparouine stream, it sits in the eastern part of the Maroni watershed. The little-visited site leads to the Voltaire falls at the end of a trail through remote terrain.

Why Visit

The place draws visitors seeking isolated landscapes:

• the Voltaire falls, the final destination of the trail;
• the Tatou stream, a point of interest along the track where a break is possible;
• information panels about local flora along the trail;
• an unspoilt environment in a low-traffic area.

Practical Information

• Difficulty: challenging. A 3.3 km trail with sometimes deteriorated infrastructure and tricky stream crossings.
• Vehicle: 4WD strongly recommended, particularly in the rainy season; the last few kilometres are poorly maintained.
• Safety: no mobile phone coverage in the area; inform someone of your plans and consider renting a satellite phone.
• Preparation: check the weather forecast and equip yourself accordingly.

Getting There

The main access route is the Paul Isnard track, a 70 km laterite road that begins with a paved section from Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni before becoming more demanding. The track leads to the Voltaire Falls lodge at its far end. From there, a 3.3 km walk leads to the falls. The Tatou stream, along the way, offers a stopping point. Crossing some streams may be complex depending on the state of the infrastructure.