Things To Do
in Basse-Terre
Basse-Terre is a stunning island located in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea that is part of the Guadeloupe archipelago. It is known for its lush rainforests, towering mountains, and black sand beaches. Visitors can explore the beautiful Guadeloupe National Park, home to the iconic La Soufriere volcano.
Basse-Terre offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage for travelers to enjoy.
- "Kijan ou yé?" - How are you?
- "Mwen ka fè sa" - I can do that
- "Bonswa" - Good evening
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Kisa ou lé?" - What do you want?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Plage de la Perle, where you can enjoy the soft sand and turquoise waters. After some sunbathing, consider taking a swim to refresh yourself.
Head to the charming village of Deshaies for lunch. Explore the local shops and visit the Botanical Garden for a relaxing stroll.
Dine at a seaside restaurant in Deshaies while watching the sunset. Savor local seafood dishes and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Visit the stunning La Désirade Nature Reserve for a morning hike. Take in the breathtaking views and observe the unique flora and fauna.
After the hike, have a picnic lunch amidst nature. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the clear waters off the reserve.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy a peaceful evening. Opt for a light dinner at a local eatery that offers traditional Guadeloupean cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, and beaches.
- Rich biodiversity and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and snorkeling.
- Cultural diversity and a blend of French and Caribbean influences in cuisine and festivals.
- Mild climate with warm temperatures year-round.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services compared to larger cities.
- Transportation can be challenging, with fewer public transport options.
- Higher cost of living compared to some parts of the mainland.
- Potential for hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season.
Best Activities in Basse-Terre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore lush rainforests and scenic waterfalls along the many hiking trails in Guadeloupe National Park. The park offers various levels of difficulty, suitable for all hikers.
Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life by snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, a protected area ideal for underwater exploration.
Embark on a challenging hike to La Soufrière, the active volcano in Guadeloupe. Enjoy breathtaking views from the summit and observe the unique geological formations along the way.
Wander through the lush trails of the Botanical Garden in Deshaies. Experience a variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees while enjoying serene surroundings.
Relax on the beautiful Grande Anse beach, known for its golden sands and turquoise waters. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or even trying out water sports like kayaking.
Visit the stunning waterfalls of Carbet, a series of three waterfalls deep in the rainforest. Enjoy a hike to each cascade and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
Kayak through the serene mangrove forests in Basse-Terre. Experience the tranquility of nature while observing diverse wildlife in this unique ecosystem.
Tours
Uncover the best of Basse-Terre with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Basse-Terre
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest peak in the Lesser Antilles, La Soufrière offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
This beautiful beach is known for its golden sands and turquoise waters. The views here, especially at sunset, provide perfect photo opportunities.
Home to lush tropical forests, waterfalls, and diverse fauna, this park is perfect for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the rich biodiversity of the region.
This garden features a variety of exotic plants and flowers, alongside scenic views of the coastline, making it a great spot for colorful and vibrant photography.
These impressive waterfalls are accessible through hiking trails and offer breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities, especially after rainfall.
Famous for its clear waters and snorkeling opportunities, this beach also showcases stunning views of the surrounding Caribbean landscape, ideal for capturing vibrant seascapes.
A small island off the coast of Bouillante, it offers excellent snorkeling and stunning views of the coastline and sea, perfect for underwater and landscape photography.
Known for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, this location offers dramatic backdrops for photographers looking to capture the essence of the Caribbean.
Food in Basse-Terre
Basse-Terre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Creole dish featuring chicken marinated in a spiced curry-like blend, often served with rice and beans. Visitors can savor this dish at restaurants like Le Rivage in Basse-Terre.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried salt cod fritters, seasoned with herbs and spices. These delectable morsels can be found at street food stalls along the coastline and at local beachside eateries.
A popular Guadeloupean fish dish cooked in a spicy broth of lime juice, garlic, and Creole seasoning. Travelers can enjoy this dish at La Playa restaurant, known for its excellent seafood offerings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Basse-Terre better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Basse-Terre, this bustling spice market offers an array of locally sourced spices, herbs, and fresh produce, providing a sensory journey of the island’s flavors and aromas. Visitors can also sample authentic Creole street food such as bokit, a fried bread pocket filled with various savory fillings.
For an evening culinary adventure, the night market in Sainte-Anne presents an enticing array of grilled seafood, barbecued meats, and vibrant tropical fruits. It's a must-visit for those seeking an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Basse-Terre, it is customary to greet with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks, starting from the left. Always greet elders first and use proper titles as a sign of respect.
If you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as dessert or a drink. During meals, wait for the host to start before eating, and it is respectful to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while eating.
Although Basse-Terre has a casual atmosphere, it is important to dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or formal events. This shows respect for local customs and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Basse-Terre with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Basse-Terre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe, tipping practices are generally similar to those in other parts of the Caribbean. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated. Tipping is also common for taxi drivers and hotel staff, although it is not mandatory.
Payment methods in Basse-Terre include cash, credit and debit cards. Euros are the official currency, and ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals. Many restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions accept credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or market purchases. Mobile payment options are becoming more popular, but may not be accepted everywhere.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Basse-Terre.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the peak tourist season in Basse-Terre due to the pleasant weather and lower humidity. Travelers can expect warm temperatures, sunny days, and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's natural attractions.
Spring offers a good balance between pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures remain warm, but occasional showers start to increase as the season progresses. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities, as the landscape is lush and green.
Summer in Basse-Terre can be hot and humid, with temperatures rising and the potential for tropical storms. This season sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for budget travelers. Expect afternoon rain showers and the chance to experience local culture during summer festivals.
Fall is considered the off-season, with higher chances of rainfall and storms, especially in September and October. However, this is also when prices are lower, and the island is less crowded. Travelers should be prepared for sudden rain but can enjoy a more tranquil experience with fewer tourists.
Basse-Terre at Night
Hiking in Basse-Terre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano in Guadeloupe offering challenging hikes with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the Caribbean Sea.
A vast park with various trails that wind through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, suitable for all levels of hikers.
A popular hike leading to the beautiful Carbet Falls, consisting of three impressive waterfalls surrounded by dense foliage.
A relatively easy hike that takes you through the rainforest to reach a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a family outing.
A lesser-known trail that offers a peaceful hiking experience with panoramic views over the bay and the island of Basse-Terre.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Basse-Terre through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Basse-Terre by plane.
The main international airport serving Guadeloupe, located approximately 40 kilometers from Basse-Terre.
Located in Dominica, about 72 kilometers southeast of Basse-Terre, offering regional flights.
Located in Antigua, approximately 122 kilometers northeast of Basse-Terre, serving international and regional flights.
Situated in Fort-de-France, Martinique, around 130 kilometers south of Basse-Terre, connecting to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Basse-Terre, comprising descendants of enslaved Africans.
Individuals who identify as being of mixed heritage, often including African, European, and indigenous ancestries.
A smaller demographic group primarily composed of descendants of European settlers.
Original inhabitants of the island, including the Arawak and Carib peoples, although their numbers are very small.
Includes individuals from various backgrounds and expatriates from other parts of the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport in Basse-Terre, soccer is played by many at both recreational and competitive levels.
Basketball has a strong following in Basse-Terre, with various local teams and tournaments fostering community engagement.
Track and field events are popular, with many schools and clubs participating in regional competitions.
Rugby is gaining popularity, with clubs emerging and matches being held, attracting both players and spectators.
Beach and indoor volleyball are popular recreational activities, supported by local clubs and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Basse-Terre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Guadeloupean cuisine heavily features seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes in Basse-Terre now offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as plantain-based stews, grilled vegetables, and fruit-based desserts. Le Madras and Le Rivage are among the establishments catering to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free options like fresh fish ceviche, rice and bean dishes, and tropical fruit sorbets at various dining spots across Basse-Terre. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with the kitchen staff for a tailored dining experience.