An island shaped like a butterfly is inevitably the promise of many charms to be revealed. Enclosed in the middle of the arch of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean, Guadeloupe surprises by the infinite declensions it offers of its tropicality: its different landscapes and gardens, the quality of its sea beds, the exoticism of its vegetation or its culture rich in perfumes, colors and flavors. All this diversity offers a unique range of opportunities to travelers in search of adventure and sports, but also a lot of tranquility and sublime beaches for those who come looking for rest.

Landing in Pointe-à-Pitre

Pointe-à-Pitre is not quite the capital of Guadeloupe, a title reserved for Basse-Terre, but its almost central location was ideal for its development. We'll start with the historical center, which has kept its atmosphere of yesteryear. The old Creole buildings are full of charm. You can also enjoy the colorful atmosphere of the fish market. A visit to the imposing and circular Place de la Victoire facing the sea completes the walk.

Those who wish to get closer to postcard shots can follow the N4 for about 20 kilometers to Sainte-Anne. The town is considered as the tourist capital of Guadeloupe. The beach of the village is really central and is a godsend for those who are looking for a quiet swim in a turquoise sea. The restaurants spread their tables on the sand; no need to change or cover your bathing suit to taste the local dishes.

From Sainte-Anne to Saint-François, the idyllic beaches follow one another, cradled by the gentle lapping of an always calm ocean. Ideal for fans of idleness. Following the road to the eastern end, it is time to arrive at the Pointe des Châteaux, where a wilder environment is revealed. There are still many exceptional places in Grande-Terre. Nevertheless, to taste the luxuriance of the tropical forest and feel the breath of the volcano, you will have to continue towards the south, because it is on Basse-Terre that you will find the wildest landscapes, in the terrestrial heart of the national park.

The soul of Guadeloupe

With its 21,000 hectares, the national park, created in 1989, is the pride of Guadeloupeans concerned with the preservation of local biodiversity. In addition to its territory which covers almost all of Basse-Terre, it has a large marine area, including the Grand Cul-de-Sac marin, a swampy area north of the two wings of the butterfly.

The fauna and flora are remarkable everywhere. It is therefore not surprising that the opulence of the local biodiversity has ranked Guadeloupe among the 25 richest areas of the planet.

To get to know the park better, the more athletic will opt for one of the many hikes that can be done along the 300 km of marked trails. Among the most sought-after places are the Carbet Falls, renowned even beyond the archipelago. The spectacle is grandiose, even if it is not always possible to approach them very closely. The sublime scenery rewards the valiant walkers who reach the summit of La Soufrière, at an altitude of 1,467 meters. This volcano, symbol of the region, is still active.

The less athletic can also enjoy the splendor of the park and get lost in the immensity of the forest. To do so, you just have to follow the Traversée, this mythical road of 17 km, dug from one point to the other of the island. From one end to the other, the landscape is breathtaking and the road is embellished with several must-see sites to explore, such as the Mamelles zoo or the small Crayfish waterfall.

An archipelago to explore

The territory of Guadeloupe is not limited to Grande and Basse-Terre; the archipelago is also composed of Les Saintes, La Désirade and Marie-Galante. Three close islands, but with very distinct characteristics. The Saintes are very popular with travelers. During the day, tourists are numerous to go, sometimes frantically, to discover a coastline and exceptional landscapes. Marie-Galante is a larger island with a round shape, from which it gets its nickname of "galette". It is rather famous for its mills and distilleries. Finally, Désirade, small, family-oriented and authentic, is the least visited of the three. The inhabitants here are less mixed, as they are mainly descendants of Bretons, Normans and Poitevins who landed in the past.

Diving into the world of silence

The high temperatures and the quality of the seabed make the practice of aquatic sports very widespread on the coast. The large number of colorful fish, turtles, sponges and other animals are a delight for both experienced and novice divers. Among the most sought-after sites, it is impossible not to mention the Pigeon Islands, better known as the Cousteau Reserve. Another option to appreciate the marine fauna, but this time without getting wet, is to take a seat in the glass-bottomed boats. The transparency of the water is such that you feel like you are in the ocean.

Culture and tradition

There is a lot of talk about the carnival period and the colorful parades that fill the streets of each village. It is one of the most awaited and commemorated festivals, but throughout the year, other events animate the archipelago. And who says party, says music. In the Caribbean, it does not go unnoticed and animates the daily life! The evenings are also enlivened by local sound systems.

The Creole culture is also invariably found in the plate. It is impossible not to be overwhelmed by all the flavors and fresh products that make up the local gastronomy. Chicken Colombo, grilled fish and banana purée, cod acras and, of course, fresh lobster at affordable prices... So many dishes to taste, not to mention the variety of spices that are available in the markets. Bottles of rum with passion fruit, coconut, pineapple and many other options are also very typical and easy to find. They fit easily into suitcases and bring with them the memory of happy days spent under the sun. For those who like soft drinks, homemade mango or guava jams are also a good option. But, rum lovers or not, you will have to visit a distillery.

And, after the visit, comes the time for tastings. Before lying down in the shade of a palm tree, because a little nap is also part of the program!

Discover now the must-sees of Guadeloupe!

Smart info

When to visit? Guadeloupe can be visited all year round, but the best season is the end and the beginning of the year.

Getting there. Prices can vary from 450 € to more than 1 000 € depending on the season. Count a little more than 8 hours of flight.

AIR FRANCE - More information on the site

CORSAIR FLY - More information on the website

Useful. To best prepare your trip.

GUADELOUPE ISLANDS TOURIST COMMITTEE - More information on the website