Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Guadeloupe

Floating gracefully in the heart of the Leeward Islands, Guadeloupe’s two primary islets – Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre – extend like a pair of vibrant wings.

Conversely, they display striking differences! To the west, Basse-Terre ascends to mist-wreathed, waterfall-laden summits that emit sulfurous volcanic ash into the humid atmosphere.

In contrast, the rugged shorelines of flat Grande-Terre descend to magnificent beaches such as Plage Caravelle, adorned with sunbathers and elegant resort accommodations.

This variation makes Guadeloupe an attractive destination (recognized in our best islands to visit in the Caribbean) that caters to a diverse array of travelers, ranging from adventurous explorers eager to experience the Carbet Cataracts and trekking paths through ancient rainforests to shoppers drawn to the market stalls of Pointe-a-Pitre, as well as those seeking tranquility on the idyllic Marie-Galante and the Iles des Saintes.

However, the allure does not stop at natural beauty; gastronomic delights including exquisite seafood, potent rum, and various local specialties await discovery, alongside a profound historical tapestry encompassing colonialism and plantation culture.

Let’s explore the premier attractions in Guadeloupe:

1. Take in the drama on the Pointe des Chateaux

Projecting dramatically from the outermost eastern tip of Guadeloupe, this rugged headland comprised of rock and salt-washed stone is undoubtedly one of the island’s natural highlights.

Many visitors liken the uniquely shaped peninsula to a shipwreck, characterized by its cliffs and striking geological formations.

This location is renowned for the brisk trade winds that sweep through year-round, attracting kite enthusiasts and creating spectacular wave crashes along the coast.

Surfing aficionados will congregate at the white-capped waves of Grandes Salines, while hikers may catch sight of the small islet of La Desirade on clear days across the Caribbean.

2. Seek out the wildlife of the Guadeloupe National Park

Nestled in the mountainous core of Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe National Park features a diverse landscape that transitions from misty old-growth rainforests to expansive mangrove ecosystems along the coast.

This area is celebrated as one of the most biodiverse in the Caribbean, harboring numerous fascinating and rare mammals that reside among its lush seagrape and jatoba tree groves.

Notably, the park is home to the mongoose, a non-native species that arrived from India, as well as the intriguing agouti rodent that scurries through the underbrush.

Additionally, sea turtles inhabit the surrounding waters, and initiatives are underway to restore the local manatee population.

3. Hike the La Soufriere Volcano

Adventurous travelers and outdoor enthusiasts should seize the opportunity to ascend the imposing La Soufriere Volcano, which rises majestically above the misty montane forests in Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre.

The ascent comprises a demanding yet picturesque trail, featuring well-kept paths that navigate through the forest, across bubbling streams, and ultimately to the summit of the sulfur-emitting stratovolcano.

Hikes along the popular Le Pas du Roy trail typically require around five hours to complete.

4. Tour the beaches and distilleries of Marie-Galante

This diminutive island of Marie-Galante attracts significantly fewer visitors compared to mainland Guadeloupe.

Nonetheless, this tranquil isle located south of Grande-Terre boasts an array of its own hidden treasures.

Firstly, it features dramatic cliffs and headlands that rise steeply from the Caribbean Sea, offering stunning coastal hikes. Secondly, the island is renowned for its legendary rum distilleries, such as Distillerie Poisson, located just outside Grand-Bourg, producing potent sugarcane spirits.

Moreover, the remnants of ancient plantations, with their imposing chimneys, overlook pristine and secluded beaches like Petite Anse and Vieux-Fort, both of which are truly idyllic spots.

5. Hit the markets of Pointe-a-Pitre

For over 400 years, Pointe-à-Pitre has served as the commercial center of Grande-Terre Island.

It was here where former landowners would have gathered to sell their sugarcane, bottled rum, and spices.

Today, this tradition continues, with stalls, bazaars, and local shops bustling along the waterfront.

Visitors should explore the vibrant La Darse strip, where fishmongers offer fresh catches, while sacks of aromatic cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon fill the air with delightful scents, particularly during weekend mornings.

Additionally, more upscale shopping options await, with bespoke jewelry available along Schoelcher Street and Frébault.

6. Swim in the Carbet Falls

This breathtaking natural gem is situated deep within the untouched rainforests of Guadeloupe National Park, where the Carbet Falls tumble down the volcano’s rocky slopes in three stunning cascades.

The second waterfall is readily accessible via winding hiking trails that meander through the foothills of La Grande Soufriere, while the highest and lowest levels are reserved for the more adventurous and resilient trekkers.

Visitors can anticipate picturesque views of the falls, with lush forests clinging to steep cliffs and mist from the falling water cascading over Guadeloupe’s jungles.

Additionally, the plunge pools at the third tier of Carbet are popular for swimming.

7. Rum, rum and more rum at the Rum Museum

The Musée du Rhum, located in Sainte Rose on the northern shore of Basse-Terre, is the premier destination for those wishing to gain insight into the Caribbean’s most renowned alcoholic beverage.

Exhibits cover a comprehensive array of topics related to rum production, from the cultivation of sugarcane throughout Guadeloupe’s history to the intricate barrel-making techniques utilized in brewing.

Visitors can also view historic copper distillation equipment and presses, and of course, sample a selection of rums at the conclusion of each tour.

8. Soak up the sun on Plage La Grande-Anse

It is readily apparent why the sun-kissed La Grande-Anse Beach is among the most celebrated stretches of sand in Guadeloupe.

Encircled by the magnificent contours of jungle-clad hills, it is tucked away in a lush enclave on the northwestern coast of Basse-Terre.

Sea vines and swaying palm trees embrace the coastline throughout the arched bay, offering ample shade beneath the coconut groves.

The beach extends over a kilometer along the coast, ensuring it rarely feels overcrowded, while numerous quaint eateries like Kote Lagon and Karacoli provide refreshments and comfortable seating mere meters from the gentle waves.

9. See jaguars and more at the Zoological and Botanical Park of Guadeloupe

Adorned with colossal orchids blooming in vibrant hues, and inhabited by elusive jaguars stealthily navigating the great trunks of jatoba trees, the Zoological and Botanical Park of Guadeloupe is a prime attraction for nature aficionados.

Situated under the protective overhead canopies of ancient rainforests, this facility offers sanctuary for the island’s native wildlife.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the guava groves and monkey-rich branches to discover rare turtles and native Guadeloupe raccoons, while the exhilarating toboggan ride remains a favorite activity among younger guests!

10. Don the snorkels in Plage Caravelle

As the crowning jewel of Grande-Terre’s exquisite beach landscape, Plage Caravelle boasts a serene and inviting environment.

Stretching along the southern shore, alongside its picturesque backdrop of coconut palms and the nearby bars and infinity pools of the Club Med Resort, it is a beloved destination for families, sunbathers, and swimmers (notably, the waters are particularly gentle due to the coral reefs that mitigate wave action).

However, Caravelle is also renowned for its exceptional snorkeling, which is especially abundant on the western portion of the beach, where coral formations flourish and reveal a tapestry of vibrant marine life.

11. Sail across to La Desirade

Once observed by Christopher Columbus during his exploration in the 1490s, and later a refuge for pirates, the stunning island of La Desirade emerges from the sunny haze approximately eight kilometers across the Caribbean Sea from the eastern coast of Grande-Terre.

Regular boat services complete the journey in around 45 minutes, depositing travelers at the modest jetties of Beausejour, the island’s largest settlement.

From there, visitors can traverse the rugged mountain paths in a 4×4, culminating at the breathtaking National Nature Reserve of La Desirade, where magnificent iguanas roam the parched plateaus.

12. Explore the Iles des Saintes

Scattered across the Caribbean’s waves just south of Basse-Terre Island, the small, often overlooked Iles des Saintes archipelago stands as one of Guadeloupe’s quintessentially tropical hideaways.

Encircled by vibrant reefs and coral gardens, these islands rise from the sea, characterized by volcanic rock and crowned with lush manchineel and gumbo limbo trees.

Terre-de-Haut is the most frequented of the islands, featuring charming rows of red-roofed houses cascading down to a rocky bay at the tranquil fishing village of Le Marigot, in addition to the imposing Fort Napoleon, which showcases the island’s colonial heritage.

13. Enjoy the eco foods at Paradise Kafe

For those in search of a quintessential Caribbean dining experience by the shore, Paradise Kafe in Deshaies is an ideal choice.

Nestled like a surf-kissed cabin along the rocky coastline near the picturesque Plage La Grande-Anse, it epitomizes relaxed island cuisine.

The menu emphasizes hearty, healthy, organic options infused with Asian influences, including pad Thai piled high with fresh vegetables.

For those wishing for a more indulgent experience, burgers are also available, along with a varied selection of fresh fruit juices—perfect for unwinding and enjoying the sunset over the northwestern coast of Basse-Terre!

14. Wander the greenery of the Deshaies Botanical Garden

Situated between the dramatic volcanic hills and the coastline near Deshaies, Guadeloupe’s renowned botanical gardens provide insight into the rich flora and fauna that characterize this biodiverse area of the Leeward Islands.

Visitors can explore cascading waterfalls and serene ponds blanketed with lily pads, all while enjoying the flutter of parrots and the sway of palm trees overhead.

Fern gardens and spiky cacti intermingle with vibrant orchid beds along the walking paths, complemented by a gift shop offering nature-themed souvenirs.

15. Get your fix of Caribbean seafood at La Touna

Overlooking the rugged cliffs of Pigeon Island on the western side of Basse-Terre (located just north of Bouillante), La Touna presents a delightful dining experience with some of the most breathtaking dinner views on the island.

With an elegant ambiance and a distinctive Caribbean-French flair, characterized by colorful timber artwork and vibrant decor, it is a truly special venue.

The menu features an array of culinary options, including tuna tartare, Creole-inspired ceviche salads, fish burgers, and daily catches.

Additionally, the establishment is widely known for serving some of the finest lobster in all of Guadeloupe!