Devil's Island Port Guide

Most tours and independent exploration focus on Île Royale, where guests can wander through the overgrown remains of the Hospital and the chilling Cell Blocks where convicts were held. A visit to the Director's House, which now houses a small museum detailing the islands' grim history, is essential for understanding the scale of the penal operations. Nature lovers will also enjoy spotting the abundant wildlife, including capuchin monkeys, agoutis, and macaws that now inhabit the grounds around the Church.

Since the ships anchor specifically to visit these islands, the primary nearby destination is Île Saint-Joseph, located just a short boat ride across the water from the main landing on Île Royale. While the actual island named Devil's Island is generally inaccessible to the public due to dangerous currents and preservation efforts, Île Saint-Joseph offers more ruins, including the silent solitary confinement cells engulfed by jungle roots. Travel to the mainland city of Kourou is generally not part of the standard stop unless the ship is docked there specifically, as this is typically a tender operation focused solely on the archipelago.

Cruise ships anchor in the open ocean and tender passengers to a small pier on Île Royale. From the pier, visitors must walk up a steep hill to reach the main plateau where the prison ruins and primary paths are located, though a local vehicle is sometimes available to assist those with mobility issues. The area is remote with limited amenities; there is a small hotel and restaurant, the Auberge des Îles, on the island, but no extensive city infrastructure or downtown area exists here.

As an overseas department of France, the official currency here is the Euro. While the small hotel and souvenir shop on Île Royale may accept US dollars or credit cards, it is highly recommended to carry some Euros for small purchases. There are no ATMs on the islands, so passengers should plan ahead and exchange money on the ship or at a previous port if they intend to buy souvenirs or refreshments.

The islands are generally very safe regarding crime, but visitors should be cautious of the uneven terrain and crumbling ruins which can present slip and trip hazards. The local wildlife, particularly the monkeys, can be aggressive if fed or approached too closely, so it is best to observe them from a distance. The tropical heat can be intense, so staying hydrated and wearing sun protection is crucial while exploring the open grounds.

The climate is strictly tropical, characterized by heat and high humidity year-round with temperatures averaging around 27°C (80°F). Rain showers can occur suddenly even during the drier months, so packing a lightweight rain poncho and breathable clothing is advisable. The sun is particularly strong near the equator, making high-SPF sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats essential items for a comfortable visit.

Transportation on Île Royale is virtually non-existent as the island is small enough to be explored entirely on foot. There is a single paved road looping around the island, and occasionally a truck may offer rides up the steep incline from the tender pier to the main plateau for a fee. No taxis, buses, or car rentals are available, so comfortable walking shoes are the primary requirement for getting around.

Shopping opportunities are extremely limited, confined mostly to the small gift shop located within the Auberge des Îles hotel on Île Royale. Visitors can find basic souvenirs such as postcards, T-shirts, and local handicrafts related to the prison's history. This is not a destination for luxury goods or duty-free shopping, but rather for picking up a unique memento of a visit to this remote location.