Travelling to French Guiana with children: mosquito precautions and essential vaccines

French Guiana is a fascinating destination for families: Amazon rainforest, exceptional wildlife, Amerindian and Creole cultures, the Kourou space centre... But travelling with children in this tropical territory requires specific preparation, particularly regarding mosquitoes, compulsory vaccines and anti-malarial prophylaxis.

Good news: thousands of families visit French Guiana every year without incident. With the right precautions and a prior medical consultation, this trip can be an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Yellow fever vaccine: compulsory from age 1

This is the most important point to remember: the yellow fever vaccine is compulsory to enter French Guiana, for anyone aged 1 year and over. This vaccine is:

• Available only at approved international vaccination centres (not at a GP's surgery)
• Valid for life since 2016 (a single injection is sufficient)
• Must be administered at least 10 days before departure
• Contraindicated in infants under 6 months; not recommended between 6 and 9 months except in exceptional cases

Remember to keep the international vaccination booklet (yellow card) — it may be requested on entry to the territory.

Anti-malarial prophylaxis for children

If your stay includes forest areas or inland municipalities, anti-malarial prophylaxis is essential for children as well as adults.

Consult a doctor or travel medicine centre at least 4 weeks before departure to adapt prophylaxis to each child's age and weight.

Mosquito repellents: what to choose for children?

Adult repellents are not all suitable for children. Here are the recommendations by age:

Application rules for children:

• Apply repellent to the adult's hands, then spread on the child's skin
• Avoid hands, eyes, mouth and irritated areas
• Never apply under clothing
• Wash with soap and water when returning indoors

The mosquito net: essential for babies and young children

For infants and young children, the mosquito net is the most effective and safest protection:

• Cot or bed mosquito net impregnated with permethrin (long-lasting action)
• Pram mosquito net for daytime outings
• Baby carrier mosquito net for carried babies

Check that the mosquito net has no holes and is well tucked under the mattress.

Other practical precautions for families

• Clothing: dress children in long sleeves and long trousers from sunset. Permethrin-treated clothing is available in children's sizes.
• Closed shoes: avoid sandals in the forest to protect feet and ankles.
• Sunscreen and repellent: apply sunscreen first, allow 20 minutes to dry, then apply repellent.
• Hydration: children dehydrate faster in tropical heat. Always have water available.
• First aid kit: thermometer, paracetamol, antihistamine, saline solution, plasters.

Recommended areas for families with children

French Guiana: an unforgettable family adventure

Guianese families have been raising their children in this territory for generations. The locals know the protective measures well and will be happy to share their advice. With good medical preparation, suitable repellents and a quality mosquito net, French Guiana offers children a unique immersion in Amazonian nature — from sea turtles to howler monkeys, via the rockets of Kourou. An adventure that stays with you for life.