The pearl of the French Caribbean, Guadeloupe fascinates with its Creole and European traditions. Its two main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, offer heavenly beaches, refreshing waterfalls, and lush forests in a generous tropical climate. Pointe-à-Pitre, with its bustling market, and vibrant Les Abymes, are at the heart of local life. Creole cuisine delights with its must-try dishes: cod fritters, chicken colombo, Creole blood sausage, and of course, the famous rum!
Guadeloupe: 8 adventures to experience at least once
Diving in the Cousteau Reserve
Located in Bouillante, on the west coast of Basse-Terre, the Cousteau Reserve is a true paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters and exceptional marine biodiversity, this reserve offers an unforgettable experience. Ideal for sunny weather and calm seas, diving in the Cousteau Reserve allows you to discover colorful corals, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. Average prices for a dive are around €50. Allow approximately 3 to 4 hours for this activity, including the briefing and the dive.
Hiking to the Soufrière Volcano
The Soufrière Volcano, located in Guadeloupe National Park, is a must-see for nature and hiking lovers. Rising to 1,467 meters, this active volcano offers breathtaking scenery and panoramic views of the island. Choose a clear, rain-free day to fully enjoy the view. Access to the park is free, but it's recommended to budget for transportation and possibly a guide. The hike lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and difficulty level.
Visit to the Damoiseau distillery
Located in the commune of Le Moule, on Grande-Terre, the Damoiseau distillery is one of the oldest and most renowned in Guadeloupe. It offers a fascinating guided tour to discover the secrets of agricultural rum production. Ideal in all weather conditions, this tour can nevertheless be an excellent option for rainy days. The Damoiseau distillery is free to visit; allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for the tour and tasting.
Relaxing on Caravelle beach
Caravelle Beach, located in Sainte-Anne, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe. With its fine sand and turquoise waters, it's perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Access to the beach is free, but you may have to pay to rent deckchairs or umbrellas.
Exploration of the Parc des Mamelles
Located in Bouillante, Parc des Mamelles is a unique tropical zoo. It houses a wide variety of Caribbean animals and offers an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Ideal in all weather, this visit is perfect for families. Prices are €17.50 for adults and €12 for children aged 3 to 12. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the park.
Discovery of the Cocoa House
Located in Pointe-Noire, the Maison du Cacao is a must-see for foodies. It offers a guided tour to discover the secrets of chocolate making, from bean to bar. Ideal in all weather, this tour is a great option for rainy days. Prices are €12 for ages 12 and up, €6 for children ages 3 to 11, and free for children under 3. Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for the tour and tasting.
Boat trip to the Saintes Islands
The Saintes Islands, located south of Guadeloupe, are a paradise archipelago not to be missed. A boat trip allows you to discover these picturesque islands, with their white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Rates for a boat trip are around €50 per person. Allow a full day for this excursion.
Visit the city of Point-à-Pitre
Point-à-Pitre, located on Grande-Terre, is a dynamic and cultural city. It offers many attractions, including the ACTe Memorial: "Caribbean Center for Expressions and Memory of the Slave Trade and Slavery." This memorial is located in the harbor of Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, on the site of the former Darboussier settlement. Ideal in all weathers, this visit is perfect for history and culture lovers. Prices for the ACTe Memorial are €15 for adults, €10 for residents, €8 for concessions, €5 for ages 13 to 17, and free for children under 12. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for the museum visit.
Some good ideas for activities in Guadeloupe
Sunset Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable sunset cruise along the coast of Guadeloupe. This romantic and relaxing experience will allow you to discover the magnificent landscapes of Guadeloupe under a golden light. Ideal for couples or nature lovers, this cruise is a must!
Sainte-Anne Night Market
The Sainte-Anne night market is a true institution in Guadeloupe. Every Thursday evening, starting at 6 p.m., the streets of Sainte-Anne come alive with stalls selling local food, crafts, and live music. It's the perfect place to sample Creole specialties, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Night hike in Soufrière
For adventurers, a night hike to the Soufrière Volcano is a unique experience. Accompanied by a guide, you'll climb the volcano under the stars to witness a spectacular sunrise from the summit. A memorable adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Jazz Evening in Pointe-à-Pitre
Music lovers won't want to miss jazz nights in Pointe-à-Pitre. Several bars and restaurants in the city offer live concerts on weekends, providing a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the local music scene while enjoying a delicious meal.
Day at Grande-Anse Beach
Grande-Anse Beach, located in Deshaies, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe. With its golden sand and turquoise waters, it's ideal for a relaxing day with family or friends. Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a picnic on the beach for a truly perfect experience.