Things To Do
in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is a volcanic Caribbean archipelago famed for its twin islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, and lush landscapes. It blends French influence with Creole culture, producing vibrant markets, spicy cuisine, and warm hospitality. Beaches range from powdery white sands to dramatic cliff shores, while rainforests and volcanic peaks invite exploration.
The islands are linked by ferries and flights, making it easy to hop between coastlines.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Pointe-à-Pitre’s Pôle Caraïbes airport and feel the warm trade winds as you collect your baggage. Drive through lush landscapes, catching glimpses of sugarcane fields and banana plantations along the coast. Check in at your hotel, then sip a smooth iced ti’ punch by the pool to celebrate the start of your adventure.
Head to the bustling Marché Saint-Antoine, weaving between stalls brimming with tropical fruits, spices, and local crafts. Chat with friendly vendors as you sample golden pineapple chunks and sweet sugarcane juice. Venture into the historic streets to admire colonial architecture painted in pastel hues and snap photos of ornate balconies.
Relax at a waterfront restaurant in Le Gosier overlooking the shimmering lagoon. Indulge in a platter of fresh grilled fish, plantains, and spicy accras de morue while observing fishermen returning in their pirogues. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy live zouk music drifting through the night air.
Set out at dawn for the heart of Basse-Terre’s rainforest and feel the humidity rise beneath the soaring mahogany and gommier trees. Listen to the melodic chorus of tropical birds and the distant roar of the river as you embark on a guided trek through moss-covered trails. Pause at a clear spring to taste the cool, pure water and marvel at the dance of sunbeams through the canopy.
Continue deeper into the forest to reach the spectacular Chutes du Carbet waterfalls, their torrents cascading over volcanic rock. Picnic on banana bread and tropical fruits beside the misty plunge pool, inhaling the scent of wild orchids and elephant ear plants. Brave a refreshing swim in the crystal pools before venturing back along the verdant path.
Return to your eco-lodge nestled among ginger lilies and botanicas, where the scent of nutmeg lingers on the breeze. Unwind with a soothing herbal tea made from guava leaves as the forest orchestra begins its nocturnal symphony. Drift to sleep in a comfortable hammock under a starlit canopy, lulled by the distant calls of tree frogs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥤Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🧭Local transportation day pass | $5-12 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and crafts | $8-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes
- Rich Creole-French culture and cuisine
- Excellent seafood and fresh produce
- Wide range of outdoor activities for all levels
- Limited public transport between islands
- Higher prices in tourist hotspots
- Hurricane season can affect travel plans
- Some areas require driving on winding coastal roads
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning (French)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est ... ?" - Where is ...?
- "Bonjou, kijan ou ye ?" - Hello, how are you? (Creole)
- "Silvouplé" - Please (Creole)
- "Mèsi" - Thank you (Creole)
Places to Visit in Guadeloupe
Visit one of these nice places.
Cliff-edge views on Grande-Terre with dramatic sunrises and expansive sea panoramas.
Lush rainforest trail leading to cascades framed by tropical greenery.
Volcanic crater with sweeping island views and a dramatic sky above.
Turquoise waters, black volcanic sand, and opportunities to photograph sea life underwater.
Colorful tropical plants and winding paths ideal for vibrant plant photography.
Food in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod fritters seasoned with herbs and hot peppers.
Must-Try!
A fried dough sandwich filled with meat, vegetables, and spicy sauces.
Caribbean curry typically featuring chicken, pork, or fish with spices and coconut milk.
Stuffed crab with peppers, tomatoes, and herbs.
A sweet coconut tart with tropical fruit jam.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historical market hub for fresh fruit, seafood, spices, and Creole snacks.
Beachfront market offering produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonjou' and a smile; a polite handshake is common in shops.
Creole is spoken informally alongside French; show respect for local culture and avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Guadeloupe
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in hospitality bills; if not, a 5-10% tip for good service is appreciated in restaurants.
Cash in euros is widely accepted; most places also take card payments. Some small vendors and markets prefer cash; check before paying.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with frequent tropical showers in the afternoon; great for beach time and water activities, but carry reef-safe sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Transition period with occasional rain; fewer crowds and pleasant hiking conditions before the peak season.
Milder daytime temperatures and sunnier periods; peak tourist season, so book accommodations in advance.
Florals bloom, temperatures rise gradually, and seas are typically calm—excellent for outdoor adventures.
Guadeloupe at Night
Hiking in Guadeloupe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging but rewarding hike with sweeping island views and a chance to glimpse the crater.
Rainforest path leading to multi-tiered waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation.
Coastal hike to dramatic cliffs with expansive sea views and sea spray.
Airports
How to reach Guadeloupe by plane.
Main international gateway to Guadeloupe, near Gosier; frequent flights from Europe and the Americas, plus regional connections.
Regional airport serving Marie-Galante with domestic connections to Guadeloupe’s main hubs.
Regional airport on Grande-Terre handling domestic and charter flights to nearby islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Descendants of African heritage forming the majority of the population.
A substantial portion of the population with mixed African and European ancestry.
Influences from metropolitan France and other European backgrounds.
Communities that maintain Creole language alongside French.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at clubs and school levels; local leagues and friendly matches are common.
Ideal winds and coastal waters support sailing, windsurfing, and dinghy races.
Reefs, marine reserves, and shipwrecks attract divers of all levels.
Scenic routes across hills and coastlines are favored by cyclists and runners.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature plantains, beans, coconut, and vegetables. When ordering, ask for no meat stock or sea food stock and request plant-based alternatives; soups and stews can be adapted with extra vegetables.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guadeloupe.