Summary
Merge French elegance with West Indian liveliness, and you arrive at Martinique, a captivating island located in the Lesser Antilles.
Here, rugged volcanic terrains transition into verdant rainforests, towering peaks, and idyllic beaches, with the imposing Mont Pelée volcano symbolizing nature’s formidable power.
Whether savoring a ti’ punch or exploring Fort-de-France’s vibrant markets, first-time guests are greeted by an island enriched with a diverse blend of African, French, and West Indian cultures, layered histories, and endless adventure opportunities.
When should I go to Martinique?
The appeal of traveling to the Caribbean is that it offers opportunities year-round.
Martinique experiences its dry season from December to around mid-April, featuring warm, sunny days and serene waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
These favorable conditions coincide with peak tourist season, resulting in an influx of visitors seeking to escape colder regions, consequently leading to increased accommodation rates.
The wet season spans from June to November, presenting a greater chance of sporadic showers, yet offering preferred rates and availability as fewer tourists visit. This period is also optimal for visiting Martinique’s botanical gardens, which flourish vibrantly, adorned with vivid greenery and blooming flowers.
If you plan to travel between mid-February and early March, a delightful experience awaits you. Martinique hosts a traditional carnival distinct from the famous sequined revelries of Rio de Janeiro or Trinidad & Tobago.
The island’s vaval embodies a spirit of resilience tracing back to the festival’s origins, featuring traditions such as the nèg gwo siwo, where participants symbolize escaped slaves using molasses and charcoal; the Samedi Gras carnival parade; clay men; the grotesque red devils; and notably, the vidé pyjama, essentially a J’ouvert celebrated in pajamas.
How much time should I spend in Martinique?
Martinique appeals to both adventure enthusiasts and those in search of a serene retreat. While a satisfying glimpse of the island’s allure can be achieved in three to four days, a week-long visit is recommended for a leisurely exploration.
Is it easy to get in and around the destination?
Travelers arriving from France, Montréal, or Miami benefit from direct flights into Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport, situated merely 15 minutes from the capital and a 40-minute drive to Les Trois-Îlets, a favored beach destination.
Alternatively, the Express des Îles ferry service provides transport to the island multiple times a week from nearby Dominica, Guadeloupe, and St Lucia.
Martinique’s Transport en Commun en Site Propre (TCSP) offers a modern bus service serving the Fort-de-France and Le Lamentin regions. Additional larger buses or grands busses connect various parts of the island—yet primarily locals utilize minivans marked “TC” (taxi collectif), showcasing their destinations on the front window.
In Fort-de-France, the central bus terminal is located at Pointe Simon near the harbor, with further stops identified by blue “arrêt autobus” signs. No fixed schedules exist; buses generally depart when filled. Fares commence at €1.50.
Service diminishes on Sundays and late evenings, periods when utilizing a taxi is advisable. This option, however, tends to be more expensive—ranging from €30 to €70 based on your destination, in addition to a 40% surcharge on fares taken between 8 PM and 6 AM.
While car rentals offer the utmost convenience, certain age and license restrictions apply. For instance, Sixt mandates drivers to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid license with a minimum of one year of activity.
Ferries known as vedettes depart from Fort-de-France’s Rue de la Liberté, destined for resort towns such as Les Trois-Îlets, Pointe du Bout, Anse Mitan, and Anse à l’Ane. Fares start at €7, with travel durations typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.
Exercise caution if opting to walk, as many roadways lack sidewalks or footpaths, posing potential hazards from approaching vehicles.
Top things to do in Martinique
Visit Fort-St-Louis for a history lesson and stellar views
Fort-St-Louis serves as both a historic landmark for enthusiasts and a must-see site for newcomers. Established in 1640, this coastal fortress has played a significant role in Martinique’s history since its inception.
Although many original elements have been altered, the fortress maintains a commanding presence in the city center, just a short distance from La Savane and the ferry terminal.
The panoramic views from the rooftop overlooking the city and harbor are unparalleled, complemented by intriguing narratives of the Vauban-style fortress shared during guided tours.
This site remains an active French naval base; thus, only select areas are accessible to the public, with strict regulations against photographing military personnel.
Sip on some sweet rum
The distinctive rhum agricole of Martinique is crafted from fresh sugarcane juice as opposed to molasses, distinguishing it from other rum varieties. Recognized as one of the globe’s premier sugarcane-producing regions, the island proudly possesses an AOC designation.
Founded in 1842 and one of the only two remaining family-run distilleries on the island, Distillerie La Favorite is celebrated for its exceptional white rhum, noted for its natural sweetness and hints of citrus.
In Le François, L’Habitation Clément functions as a former distillery-turned-museum, providing insight into how sugarcane transitions into the illustrious rhum agricole. For a more personalized interaction, consider visiting Distillerie Depaz, located at the foot of Mont Pelée on the island’s northwest coast.
Find your slice of paradise
Les Anses d’Arlet represents one of Martinique’s most picturesque locations, featuring a charming pier that links Église St-Henri to the bay. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and tranquil beaches create an ideal environment for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Anse Noire’s volcanic black sand beautifully contrasts with the turquoise waters, while the nearby Anse Dufour features golden sands and a wealth of sea turtles.
Plage du Diamant, Martinique’s largest beach, offers astonishing views of the rocky island of Rocher du Diamant, while Petite Anse remains tranquil and secluded. Grande Anse des Salines, with its powdery white sands and gentle waters, is ideal for families and a must-see for beach enthusiasts.
Hike the trails of Mont Pelée
Mont Pelée significantly transformed Martinique’s geography during its eruption in 1902, which decimated the town of St-Pierre. Today, this active volcano draws nature enthusiasts with its engaging hiking paths and breathtaking vistas.
The popular L’Aileron trail is a 4-hour round-trip excursion, while the Grande Savane offers a 2-hour moderate hike along ridgelines showcasing views of St-Pierre. Beginning in Désiles, the Morne Macouba trail takes you through a tropical rainforest with sights of the Macouba Valley.
Morning hikes are ideal for optimal viewing before cloud cover sets in. Be sure to bring water, rain gear, and layers to accommodate cooler temperatures and potential rain.
My favorite thing to do in Martinique
As a native of St Lucia, I hold a deep appreciation for my neighboring island of Martinique. On clear days, it is even visible from Pigeon Island, which is merely an hour away by ferry.
I cherish Les Trois-Îlets, where fine, white sands meet stunningly turquoise waters. Just a short distance away, one can discover quaint wine bars and eateries reflecting the essence of French culture. While it may appear tourist-oriented, an indescribable charm captivates me—perhaps one might call it a je ne sais quoi.
How much money do I need for Martinique?
As Martinique is an integral part of France, the euro serves as the official currency. While some establishments may accept US dollars, visitors are advised to carry euro bills at all times.
