Petit-Saut Reservoir
A vast dam lake in the forest behind Sinnamary, its surface spiked with drowned trees.
Updated 3 September 2026
The Petit-Saut dam closed on the Sinnamary river in 1994 and flooded hundreds of square kilometres of rainforest, and the reservoir behind it is a strange sight: grey trunks of the drowned canopy still standing out of the water in every direction, islands that were hilltops, and channels threading between them. Boat trips go out among the trees, and the lake supplies most of the territory's electricity.
What you'll find
- The drowned forest - dead trunks standing out of the water for kilometres.
- The dam - the barrage that closed the river in 1994.
- The island maze - former hilltops threading the open water.
- The boat channels - routes between the trunks for fishing and trips.
When to go
July to November is the dry season with the most reliable access. Boat trips must be arranged in advance. Storms build over the lake on wet-season afternoons.
What to expect
It is a hydro reservoir, not a natural lake, and the drowned forest reads as eerie rather than beautiful. Trips need arranging and there is no walk-up operation. Swimming is not advised.
Nearby
Sinnamary is downstream, and Kourou is east.
What to pack for Petit-Saut Reservoir
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Travel rod + reel - A packable multi-piece rod fits in a case and covers most holiday fishing. Find on Amazon
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
