Guiana Space Centre, Kourou, French Guiana

The Guiana Space Center, which is also referred to as The Spaceport, is a facility in the northwestern section of the town of Kourou, French Guiana. This European spaceport has been in operation since 1968 and is strategically located in a site favorable for Arianespace’s commercial launches. Having three functional launch vehicles, the Guiana Space Center accommodates numerous launch operations and has been dubbed as the most modern launch base across the globe.

The establishment of the Guiana Space Center only attracted more businesses to Kourou, especially hotels and accommodations. One of the top-rated ones in the area is the 4-star Grand Hotel Montabo. Guests saying at the Grand Hotel Montabo can avail 24/7 fitness center, free WiFi internet, tors/ticket assistance, a bar/lounge, restaurant, and an outdoor pool. The hotel has multilingual staff, and complimentary breakfast and conference facilities. Another top rated hotel near the space center is the Hotel Mercure Kourou Ariatel, which features a fitness center, free internet, laundry room, and concierge services. The hotel also has a garden, free self parking, and outdoor pool and shopping stores on site. This pet-friendly hotel also has an outdoor pool for its guests. While visiting the town of Kourou, it is also worth it to go beach hopping in the area. Lounge on the fine sands of Plage de la Cocoteraie and Plage des Roches and enjoy the stunning beauty of the North Atlantic Ocean. The Pim-Poum Beach is also within the commune of Kourou and is characterized by a small stretch of sand and rocks.