A TRIP TO THE HMONG VILLAGE OF CACAO

The Hmong people

The Hmong people are an ethnic group from South-East Asia often treated as pariahs in their native Laos and Vietnam. Upstream from Saut Bief along the Comté River, Cacao is the place where the Hmong community came to settle in Guiana in 1977. Initially rejected by some, their presence has gradually been accepted and their successful agricultural efforts have secured their integration into the local economy. Now one of the many ethnic groups in the very diverse makeup of Guiana, their tawny faces will welcome you to their extensive flower fields covered with so-called “porcelain roses”, birds of paradise and canna indica—all blending their perfumes in an atmosphere that still preserves memories of their long-lost Laotian uplands; their town market on Sundays is a real festival of colors and scents—for you to visit. Local customs and crafts – from shimmering embroidery to the art of preserving large insects and mygalomorphae spiders under glass – are bound to fascinate you.

This trip is available every Sunday. We’ll sail up the Comté River to reach Cacao by pirogue (dugout canoe)—with pauses for swimming and exploring at high tide a small creek where lush flora surrounds the entire boat. Sundays are also special in Cacao on account of the local market where Hmongs sell a wide array of unusual fruit and vegetables. You can also enjoy lunch in one of the little village restaurants. Other varied activities will ensure an ideal family day: further pirogue outings to swim spots, a visit to the Amerindian village of Favard, a visit to the small local museum and general sightseeing all around this very colorful place.

Trip schedule

8am – Departure from Roura.

Motorized pirogue sailing up the Comté River until we reach the Cacao landing stage (trip lasting 2 hours). Free time to tour the village and visit the market; then lunch at the market or in one of the Laotian restaurants. Afternoon visit to the entomology museum (€3 for an individual entrance ticket).

5pm – Return trip to Roura on pirogue.

CityCacao
Duration1 day
WhenSundays
Meeting pointChez Wayki village à Roura
Departure time8.00am
Your Stay
(hors repas et musée)
Price per person (in €)
Adult46 €
Children (3 to 12 years old)23€
Children (under 3)Free

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