Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean gem shaped like a butterfly, is a blend of natural wonders and rich history. From hiking the active La Soufrière volcano to exploring Fort Delgrès’ powerful past, this destination captivates with culture and nature. Discover vibrant markets, stunning beaches with golden and black sands, and a story uniquely Caribbean.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to do
La Soufrière Volcano
An active volcano and the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles, La Soufrière offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. The rocky trail, spanning nearly 4,000 feet to the base, gives adventurers a glimpse into Guadeloupe’s geothermal activity.
- Address: Parc National de la Guadeloupe, Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
- Website: La Soufrière
Fort Delgrès
Built in the 17th century to defend against British attacks, this historic fort was renamed in 1989 to honor Louis Delgrès, a leader in the fight against slavery. Explore the fort’s open fields, stone architecture, and tributes to freedom, all while learning about Guadeloupe’s colonial history.
- Address: Rue Amédée Fengarol, 97100 Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Cost: Adults: €5; Children under 12: Free
- Website: Fort Delgrès Tour
Pointe-à-Pitre Market
Immerse yourself in Guadeloupean culture at this bustling market filled with colorful spices, handmade crafts, and lively music. The market also offers an authentic experience of the local lifestyle, making it perfect for people-watching amid a historic Caribbean streetscape.
- Address: Rue Peynier, Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Monday – Saturday, 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Cost: Free to browse (items priced individually)
- Website: Pointe-à-Pitre Tour
Grande-Anse Beach
A golden-sand beach surrounded by lush hills, Grande-Anse is one of Guadeloupe’s most popular spots for relaxation and water activities. Its calm waters and scenic beauty make it ideal for families and photographers alike.
- Address: Plage de Grande-Anse, Deshaies, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
- Website: Grande-Anse Beach Tour
Plage de Bananier (Bananier Beach)
Famous for its unique black sand, this beach is a favorite among surfers and those seeking a dramatic coastal landscape. The surrounding cliffs and volcanic sand offer a striking contrast to Guadeloupe’s golden beaches.
- Address: Route de Bananier, Capesterre-Belle-Eau, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
- Website: Plage de Bananier Tour
Parc National de la Guadeloupe (Guadeloupe National Park)
Spanning over 74,100 acres, this lush rainforest on Basse-Terre Island offers diverse trails leading to waterfalls, hot springs, and the active La Soufrière volcano. It’s a haven for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure amid breathtaking landscapes.
- Address: Habitation Beausoleil Montéran, 97120 Saint-Claude, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Cost: Free entry
- Website: Parc National de la Guadeloupe
Jardin Botanique de Deshaies
This botanical garden showcases a stunning array of tropical plants, vibrant flowers, and exotic birds, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and nature photography. The peaceful ambiance adds to its charm.
- Address: Deshaies, 97126, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Cost: Adults: €15; Children (5-12): €10
- Website: Jardin Botanique de Deshaies
Pointe des Châteaux
Located at the eastern tip of Grande-Terre, this dramatic peninsula offers rugged cliffs and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area’s striking resemblance to a shipwreck adds to its allure.
- Address: Saint-François, 97118, Guadeloupe
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
- Website: Visit Pointe des Châteaux
Where to stay
La Toubana Hôtel & Spa
Perched on a clifftop in Sainte-Anne, this five-star property offers bungalows, suites, and villas with stunning sea views, a luxurious spa, and a poolside restaurant.
- Address: Fonds Thézan, 97180 Sainte-Anne, Guadeloupe
- Cost: Starting at €582 per night (prices vary by room type and season)
- Website: La Toubana Hôtel & Spa
Le Jardin Malanga
Set on a former coffee plantation in Trois-Rivières, this charming hotel features accommodations in a 1920s house and cottages, an infinity pool, and a Creole-French restaurant.
- Address: Route de l’Hermitage, 97114 Trois-Rivières, Guadeloupe
- Cost: Starting at €250 per night (prices vary by season)
- Website: Le Jardin Malanga
La Créole Beach Hôtel & Spa
Located in Le Gosier, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and a spa. Its beachfront location makes it a favorite for relaxation and water activities.
- Address: Pointe de la Verdure, 97190 Le Gosier, Guadeloupe
- Cost: Starting at €300 per night (prices vary by room type and season)
- Website: La Créole Beach Hôtel & Spa
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
Guadeloupe’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of French, African, and Caribbean influences, making it a culinary paradise. Here are some traditional local foods and dishes you must try:
Colombo
This Guadeloupean staple is a fragrant curry dish made with chicken, goat, or seafood, stewed in a mix of Caribbean spices, turmeric, and fresh herbs. Colombo is typically served with rice, plantains, or cassava, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.
Bokit
A street food favorite, bokit is a deep-fried sandwich filled with a variety of options such as saltfish, chicken, ham, or cheese. Think of it as Guadeloupe’s answer to a burger but with a unique Caribbean twist. It’s a must-try snack you can grab at local markets or food stands.
Accras de Morue
These crispy saltfish fritters are a beloved appetizer or snack in Guadeloupe. Made with salted cod, herbs, and spices, accras are deep-fried to golden perfection. They pair beautifully with a spicy Creole dipping sauce.
Langouste (Spiny Lobster)
Freshly caught spiny lobster is a delicacy in Guadeloupe. Often grilled and served with garlic butter, lime, or Creole sauce, this dish highlights the island’s seafood excellence.
Ti Punch
No meal in Guadeloupe is complete without trying Ti Punch, a traditional cocktail made with white rum, lime juice, and sugar cane syrup. It’s a refreshing way to toast to your Caribbean adventure.
Guadeloupe’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes, and the flavors here will leave you craving more. Be sure to explore local markets and seaside restaurants to get a true taste of the island.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Guadeloupe is during the dry season, from December to April.
This period offers sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking La Soufrière, exploring beaches, and enjoying local festivals like Carnival in February.
Avoid the hurricane season from June to November, as heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.Getting Around
Guadeloupe’s two main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, are connected by bridges, making it easy to explore by car.
Renting a car is highly recommended for accessing remote beaches, national parks, and cultural sites at your own pace.
Public transportation is limited and consists mainly of buses, which are inexpensive but operate irregularly.
Taxis are available but can be costly, as they don’t use meters. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not yet widely available, so plan accordingly.
Safety Tips
Guadeloupe is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always wise to exercise caution:
Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
Use locked safes in hotels to store valuables.
Be aware of strong ocean currents at some beaches and adhere to local warnings.
Protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves in the evenings.Helpful Notes
Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to carry cash for small vendors and markets. ATMs are available in major towns.
Language: French is the official language, though Creole is commonly spoken. English is not as widely spoken, so learning a few French phrases can be helpful.
Time Zone: Guadeloupe is in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone (AST), which is UTC-4.
Tap Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink unless otherwise indicated.
Plug Type: C and E
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Packing list
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing.
Guadeloupe’s tropical climate, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences call for versatile packing. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen) for warm days.
- Comfortable hiking gear for exploring La Soufrière, including moisture-wicking shirts and durable shorts/pants.
- Swimsuits and quick-dry beachwear for relaxing on golden and black sand beaches.
- A light rain jacket or poncho for unexpected tropical showers.
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Evening casual attire for dining out or cultural excursions.
Footwear
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots for volcanic trails.
- Flip-flops or water shoes for beaches and water activities.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring markets and towns.
Toiletries and Essentials
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+).
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes.
- Travel-size toiletries and a reusable water bottle.
- Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
Beach and Water Gear
- A lightweight beach towel or sarong.
- Snorkeling gear if you plan to explore marine life.
- Waterproof phone case for beach and water activities.
Tech and Accessories
- Camera or smartphone for capturing scenic views.
- Power bank for long days out exploring.
- Plug adapter (Type C/E) for charging devices.
Miscellaneous
- A small backpack for day trips and hikes.
- Euros (€) for local markets and small vendors.
- French phrasebook or translation app to navigate conversations.
With this packing list, you’ll be ready to embrace Guadeloupe’s vibrant culture, stunning nature, and rich history in comfort and style!
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
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This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations. Research for this acknowledgment was made possible using the NativeLand.ca.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideTrip provided by: Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board
