French Guiana, the only French territory in South America, is a land of astonishing biodiversity. Nestled between the Amazon and the Atlantic coast, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage that will shine in the light of the Olympic torch during its visit to the department. The torch will begin its journey in Camopi on the Brazilian border, which runs along the Oyapock River. Here, the torch will be honoured by an indigenous ceremony. From there, it will go to the transportation camp in Saint-Laurent du Maroni, a penal colony from the 18^th century. The next day, the torch will join the festivities around the commemoration of the abolition of slavery. Next up will be Kourou, with a focus on the Guiana Space Centre, where the torch will blast past the Ariane V model and down European Flag Alley. The torch will keep advancing towards Saint-Georges-de-l'Oyapock near the Brazilian border, the vibrant town of Tonate Macouria, and Matoury, where the segment will come to a close at the Lucie Décosse House of Martial Arts. The final leg of the day will take it to Cayenne.

Celebrations in Cayenne

The celebrations will continue in Cayenne, the capital of the French Amazon. The Olympic flame will illuminate a rich city steeped in history and indigenous heritage. Its tour of Cayenne will begin at the Sports Training and Access Institute (IFAS), from where it will travel to the University. After that, it will head to the botanical garden established over a century ago in the heart of the city. The torch will then zip past the Monument of Broken Chains, a poignant sculpture representing the liberation of slaves. Next up will be the hill of Fort Cépérou, which dates from the arrival of the French in the 17^th century. The torch will then head to Place des Palmistes: a 3-hectare, palm tree-lined square dotted with numerous shops and businesses that are an important part of local life. The square will host the ceremony and the last few festivities of the stage. The relay will end with the lighting of the cauldron in front of a huge crowd.