What to do in Guadeloupe? The 19 essentials
Located in the heart of the arc of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean, Guadeloupe is one of the favorite destinations of the French and for good reason, the butterfly island of a thousand colors meets all desires! Paradise beaches bathed in translucent waters, sometimes lush sometimes lunar lands, small islands with discreet coves and preserved traditions and for all these settings a tropical climate tempered by the trade winds. Whether it is eaten, drunk or exhibited, culture here has a strong identity that disorients and gives the impression of having been able to really get away from it all: in other words, of having experienced a real holiday, at the other end of the world !
1. Basse-Terre, the capital of Guadeloupe
Located in the southwest of the island of Basse-Terre, this city offers a guaranteed change of scenery thanks to its colonial architecture, its lively port and its large market. Classified as a "city of art and history", it has many surprises in store for visitors. During your visit, we advise you to go to Fort Delgrès, a historic monument dating from the 17th century , which offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city and the Caribbean Sea from its ramparts and whose visit is free. You can also go for a walk in the Champ d'Arbaud, a former military training ground that has become a place of walk very popular with both locals and tourists. The Notre-Dame-de-Guadeloupe Cathedral, dating from the 18th centurycentury , is also remarkable for its volcanic stone facade and its Baroque style and is worth a visit.
The botanical garden of Basse-Terre, the oldest in Guadeloupe, is also a place of wonder where you can walk for free and discover a wide variety of exotic plants. Don't miss the Basse-Terre market either , a real festival of colors with its colorful stalls, where you can discover local products and the lively atmosphere.
2. Pointe-a-Pitre
If Pointe-à-Pitre is unmissable, it is because it is ideally located at the junction between Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre. We like to stroll in its typical streets lined for some with colonial residences, for others with Creole wooden houses. Its markets are lively, joyful and colorful, an animation that can be found after dark towards the Marina where there are a large number of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. In terms of culture, Pointe-à-Pitre has several museums including the ACTe memorial, the Caribbean Center for Expressions and Memory of Trafficking and Slavery, opened in 2015. A memorable visit not to be missed.
Wondering where the name of the city of Pointe-à-Pitre comes from? What is the relationship with a Dutch fisherman? Discover all the history of the city and the answers to these questions during this historical guided tour that we recommend you book!
3. Grande Anse Beach
On the west coast of the island of Basse-Terre, Grande-Anse beach is the longest and one of the most beautiful in the Archipelago . Shaped like a half-moon, it is lined with coconut trees and green hills that rise from its expanse of fine sand. An idyllic setting for swimming in calm weather, you will find showers and toilets as well as a few restaurants and "lolos", traditional West Indian grocery stores. Take the time to stay there until sunset, certainly the most beautiful shots of your stay.
4. La Soufrière, an unmissable place in Guadeloupe
Nicknamed "vié madanm la" which means "the old lady" in Creole , La Soufrière is the highest point of the Lesser Antilles with its 1467 meters of altitude. This active volcano is located inside the Guadeloupe National Park, in the southern part of Basse-Terre; it does not really have a crater but several eruptive mouths from which escape sulphurous vapours, gases as well as hot springs. At its summit, the landscape is lunar and chaotic, it is the only place that offers a 360° view of the mountain ranges and as far as the surrounding islands. The hike around and on the volcano of La Soufrière is very pleasant, it gives to see a remarkable flora and fauna. Observe the rainforest from abovewith an aerial tramway tour above Saint Lucia by clicking here !
5. La Desirade
With such a pretty name, this small island is certainly the most authentic and wild of Guadeloupe. It is located about ten kilometers from the eastern tip of Grande-Terre and is only accessible by boat. Here time seems to have stopped and tranquility reigns along its 11 km where varied landscapes alternate between sea and cliffs. La Désirade is the first nature reserve of a geological nature in the Oerseas Territories, it is also the kingdom of iguanas and a popular place for divers who are dazzled by its magnificent coral reefs.
6. Marie Galante
We all have an air of Laurent Voulzy in mind when we pronounce his name... Although it keeps its promises of golden beaches, Marie-Galante is best known for its mills and its agricultural activity dedicated to sugar cane: you rum tastings in local distilleries! It is a preserved island which has kept its traditions, you can still attend a cockfight or a competition of ox-pulling… Marie-Galante has turned to sustainable tourism and is also tending to become 100% autonomous in renewable energy.
7. The Saints
The Saintes archipelago is made up of 9 islands, of which only 2 are inhabited, Terre-de-Bas and Terre-de-Haut, whose bay is ranked among the most beautiful in the world. The island is pleasant and particularly colorful, whether it is the facades of the houses or the multicolored boats of the fishermen. It is also here that Fort Napoleon is located, which enjoys an exceptional panorama over the whole of the archipelago. Terre-de-Bas is more discreet but just as pretty, it lends itself more to hiking and discovering crafts: here you will find the most beautiful salakos, traditional hats made of bamboo plant fibres.
Would you like to discover the Baie des Saintes, classified by Unesco as one of the most beautiful in the world? We advise you to book this catamaran excursion! You can swim in the waters of the Caribbean with sea turtles and enjoy a breathtaking view of the landscapes of Les Saintes!
8. Grand-Cul-de-Sac Marin
Grand-Cul-de-Sac marin is an exceptional nature reserve, classified as a World Biosphere Reserve by Unesco. Covering an area of nearly 15,000 ha, it is made up of mangroves, swamp forests, seagrass beds and a coral reef of nearly 40 km. It is usually visited by boat or sea kayak to observe the many marine species and birds that come to nest in the mangroves. With a little luck, you will come across pretty sea turtles while waiting for the return of the manatee that the National Park is trying to reintroduce. Discover the mangroves of the Grand-Cul-de-Sac marin by booking a paddle session to discover the mangroves here !
9. Crossing Road
La Traversée is a mountainous road that cuts Basse Terre , from east to west, for 17 km. It criss-crosses the tropical forest and crosses various major sites: the Crayfish Waterfall, the Zoological and Botanical Park as well as the Maison de la Forêt and its discovery trail. The decor of this lush forest is dotted with 300 species of trees, 250 species of ferns and 2,700 species of flowering plants including a hundred orchids.
10. Sainte-Anne
21 km from Pointe-à-Pitre, Sainte-Anne is one of the largest seaside resorts in Guadeloupe. The landscapes are worthy of the postcards that you will write from its white sand beaches hemmed with turquoise water and lined with coconut palms. Its magnificent lagoon is protected by its coral reef on a coastline that stretches for more than 15 km. Kingdom of nautical activities, you can even try your hand at flyboarding: a jet-powered nautical device that propels you out of the water like an Ironman! Click here to book a private photo session on Caravelle beach in Saint-Anne !
11. The Cousteau Reserve for diving in Guadeloupe
The Cousteau Reserve, named after its creator, has become an essential place for diving, thanks to the exceptional richness of its seabed which extends over nearly 1,000 hectares. Hundreds of species of tropical fish and mysterious wrecks can be found there at five major sites: the coral garden, the aquarium, the Japanese garden, Pointe Mahaut and the wreck of the Franjack . In January and February, the luckiest can even hear the song of humpback whales... Book your private jet-ski session here with an instructor at the Cousteau Reserve!
12. Visit the Archaeological Park of engraved rocks
Located in the town of Trois-Rivières, the Archaeological Park of Roches Gravées has been a site classified as a historical monument since 1974, offering a fascinating imprint left by the first inhabitants of the archipelago, the Arawak Indians. Probably dating from the 3rd or 4th century AD, the inscriptions carved by these ancient civilizations on volcanic rocks, amidst lush vegetation, were discovered in the early 19th century . This place is of great importance for the history of the pre-Columbian Antilles. During the guided tour of this park, you will have the chance to admire more than 230 engravings, called "petroglyphs", dating back more than 1,500 years.These petroglyphs provide valuable information about the way of life of the Native American civilization that once inhabited the area. To take full advantage of this experience, it is recommended to visit the site early in the morning, when the light is softer, thus favoring optimal observation of the inscriptions on the rocks.
13. Take a walk in the Botanical Garden of Deshaies
Located in the heart of the old property of Coluche and extending over nearly 7 hectares, the Botanical Garden of Deshaies is an exceptional place which harmoniously combines botany and the animal park. This enchanting place is divided into several thematic spaces with many attractions that will captivate young and old:a waterfall, a wall of water, a torrent, a pond where pink flamingos move gracefully, a pond adorned with water lilies, a village dedicated to macaws (parrots), an aviary and an enclosure dedicated to goats for the happiness of children, located near the playground and the snack bar. You will walk among the majestic tropical trees and be amazed by the beauty of the flowers, such as the porcelain rose, the hibiscus and the orchid, while being accompanied by the song of the birds such as the hummingbirds with the blue macaws. This botanical garden and animal park is an enchanting place where nature flourishes in all its glory, offering visitors a memorable and immersive experience in the heart of tropical biodiversity.
14. Visit the Hell's Gate Lagoon
Located at Anse Bertrand in Guadeloupe, the Porte d'Enfer is an essential place to visit in the heart of unspoiled nature. Don't be fooled by its name, this natural site has the charms of a little corner of paradise. You will be amazed by its vertiginous cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean, while the crystal blue waters will reveal a glimpse of underwater wonders. Don't hesitate to end your day by going to the pierced cave Tou a Man Koko ("Madame Coco's Hole" in French) just 15 minutes away or take advantage of its turquoise waters by swimming in the lagoon located in sunken.
15. Go to Morne-à-l'Eau Cemetery
Located in the heart of the town, this cemetery is mentioned in guides around the world. Built on a terrace on a hill, it presents an impressive view with its 1,800 tombs covered with earthenware tiles, arranged in a black and white checkerboard pattern, and sometimes even pink and blue! According to historians, the first burial was erected in 1847, 20 years after the founding of the town, by a family from Békés. What is surprising is that some vaults look like small houses, some of which were designed by architects. From the farmer to the musician via the Béké planter, all strata of society are today represented.in this amazing place. The most important moment of the year occurs during All Saints' Day: each tomb, each vault, is carefully cleaned and repainted if necessary. On November 1 and 2, the cemetery lights up with a thousand and one candles for November 2, the Day of the Dead, and families come to visit their deceased at nightfall, with imposing bouquets of flowers.
16. Go back in time in the village of Port-Louis
It was once a sugar city, Port-Louis is now a charming fishing village. During your visit, you can discover the Godet habitation, a place where windmills were used to grind sugar cane during the time of slavery. The village is particularly appreciated for its town center which seems frozen in time, with its colorful traditional Creole houses. Souffleur beach, lined with mangroves, is also a jewel of Port-Louis. It is also renowned for being one of the best surf spots in Guadeloupe., attracting board sports enthusiasts looking for thrills. Port-Louis is therefore a place that offers a mix of history, Creole culture and relaxation on idyllic beaches, making it a destination not to be missed during your visit to Guadeloupe.
17. Visit a rum distillery, a must do in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is renowned for its production of quality rum. By visiting the distilleries, you have the opportunity to discover the different stages of the rum-making process, from the harvesting of the sugar cane to the bottling of the spirit. As rum is deeply rooted in Guadeloupe's history and culture, you'll learn about the heritage of this iconic drink, its importance in local life, and its economic role in the region. It will also be an opportunity to taste a range of rums with various flavors, ranging from agricultural white to old rum, including spiced and flavored rums. In addition, you will participate directly in the local economyencouraging the production of artisanal rum and purchasing products directly from the source.
We advise you to visit the Damoiseau distillery, one of the most popular on the island or the Bologne distillery, erected on the remains of an old sugar plantation where you can admire an old sugar cane mill, two stills and a water wheel.
18. Taste the essential local gastronomy
The local gastronomy in Guadeloupe is to be tested absolutely! It will take you on a colorful and flavorful journey, whether at a restaurant table or in a snack bar on the beach. We particularly recommend that you try the famous accras , these delicious spicy cod fritters as well as the famous boucané chicken , usually served with rice. And for your snacks or picnics, don't miss the bokit, the local star of sandwiches with its tasty ingredients.
19. Learn to scuba dive
Scuba diving for the first time in Guadeloupe is an unforgettable experience as the waters of Guadeloupe are teeming with incredible biodiversity, with an impressive variety of tropical fish , colorful corals, sea turtles, rays, sharks, and much more. You will also find a wide variety of dive sites suitable for all levels, whether they are shallow coral reefs, shipwrecks, underwater caves or vertiginous drop-offs. Underwater visibility in Guadeloupe is generally excellent,allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the seabed. And for beginners, rest assured, the diving conditions in Guadeloupe are ideal, with calm waters, a pleasant temperature throughout the year and few strong currents.
?When is the best time to go to Guadeloupe
The climate in Guadeloupe is attractive whatever the time of year, with temperatures that would make any metropolitan dream of winter. There are two main seasons. First, the rainy season, from June to December, which is the hottest period with temperatures that can reach up to 35°C, abundant rains and relatively weak trade winds. This period also corresponds to the hurricane season, extending from June to October. The second is the dry season, from January to May, which is slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 25°C. Choose the dry season to enjoy the best temperatures and sunny days.
?What to do in Guadeloupe with the family
Guadeloupe offers many family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some ideas of things to do in Guadeloupe with the family:
Guadeloupe offers many family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some ideas of things to do in Guadeloupe with the family:
-The beaches: take advantage of the magnificent white sand beaches and turquoise water for days of relaxation and family swimming on the beach of Grande Anse in Deshaies, the beach of Sainte-Anne or the beach of Gosier for example.
-Water parks: visit water parks such as the aquacultural park in Pointe-Noire or the Mangofil leisure park in Sainte-Anne, where you will find activities such as zip lines, tree climbing courses and water slides.
- Go hiking: Go hiking through the island's stunning landscapes, choosing paths suitable for children. The Guadeloupe National Park offers several family hiking trails, such as the one leading to the Carbet Falls.
-Visit the botanical gardens: visit the botanical gardens of Guadeloupe, such as the Botanical Garden of Deshaies or the Jardin d'Eau in Petit-Bourg, to discover a wide variety of exotic plants and fauna.
?What to do in Guadeloupe when it rains
In Guadeloupe, even if it rains, there are still many activities to do to enjoy your stay and occupy your day when the weather is rainy, such as:
-Visit the museums to discover the history of Guadeloupe: the archipelago has several interesting museums that will allow you to discover its history, its culture and its biodiversity. Among the museums to visit, we can mention the Memorial ACTe in Pointe-à-Pitre, which traces the history of slavery and the slave trade, as well as the Schoelcher Museum in Pointe-à-Pitre, dedicated to the history and the abolition of slavery.
-Discover the rum distilleries and take the opportunity to visit one of the island's rum distilleries. You can learn about the rum-making process and taste different varieties.
-Explore aquariums and animal parks. In case of rain, you can go to an aquarium, such as AquariO'Guadeloupe, to observe marine life up close. Alternatively, head to Guadeloupe Animal Park, where you can admire a wide variety of exotic animals.
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