Guadeloupe is an ideal choice if you are looking forward to a dream vacation. This French-Caribbean island is dreamy and possesses all the features and perfect spots for a getaway of a lifetime. The two largest islands in Guadeloupe, Grande Terre Island, and Basse Terre Island, are individually beautiful, offering the best of beaches and premiumall-inclusive resorts. Salee River runs across the island, adding to the beauty of this butterfly-like destination. The archipelago has various spots filled with white sand beaches, the kind that is perfect for romantic hangouts and sunbathing. Experience more and live like a local and stay in Airbnb vacation rentals close to lush mountainous rainforests that scatter through Guadeloupe and have scenic and recreational waterfalls. The selection of food in the cafes and boulangeries is not disappointing, telling the tales of its heritage – a blend of French and British culture. To find out more, kick back and read through this list of the best things to do in Guadeloupe.
1. Ride the waves on an electric foil ride with an instructor (from USD 128.23)
One of the top things to do in Guadeloupe is learning how to ride the waves with an efoil. An efoil is a motorized surfboard that allows a surfer to ride even smaller waves. Take advantage of the island’s beautiful waters and majestic waves and enjoy the feeling of freedom when soaring above the waters of Baie Mahault Marina at high speeds, An expert will guide you through the learning process and will give you tips for a smooth ride.
Guadeloupe: Electric Foil Ride with Instructor
Duration: 2.0 hour
2. Learn how to surf with a qualified lifeguard instructor (from USD 49.0)
Surfing on the beautiful waves of Guadeloupe is probably the top outdoor activity in the archipelago. Join in on the fun and learn how to surf with a qualified lifeguard instructor. The activity ensure a safe adventure through providing suitable quality equipment. You can even request for a recording of you conquering the waves! The whole experience will last for an hour and 30 minutes and if you’re traveling as a group, the activity allows a maximum of 6 people.
Come and learn to surf at the best surf spots in Guadeloupe.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
3. Treat your eyes to the natural beauty of Carbet Falls
Carbet Falls are among the most impressive waterfalls of the Lesser Antilles. Discover the splendid waterfalls after a...
Posted by Guadeloupe Islands on Monday, 27 June 2016
The three falls that form the Carbet Falls are located in the Basse-Terre Island area of Guadeloupe on the slopes of Soufrière volcano. These falls are beautiful pictures of nature which can be seen from the sea. The second fall is the most popular and it stands at an impressive height of almost 110 m (360 ft). Get your hiking shoes and be ready for a memorable interaction with nature’s beauty at its finest. The 30-minute trail is exciting. You enjoy songbirds singing, lush vegetation of the forest up close, not forgetting the energizing waters of various warm springs on the path.
Carbet Falls
Address: Capesterre Belle Eau, Guadeloupe
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4. Explore the flora and fauna of Guadeloupe National Park
A visit to Guadeloupe National Park is one of the best things to do on this French-Caribbean island. Sitting on 74,100 acres (30,000 hectares) of rainforest, this park has picturesque views of waterfalls, the famous Soufrière volcano and lush green foliage. The mountainous Basse-Terre houses this treasure well, leaving it unspoiled and natural. The fauna and flora found in the park are both marine and terrestrial. If you are thinking of taking a trail through well-preserved lands and probably spotting a raccoon or two, then hop on this trail.
Guadeloupe National Park
Address: Monteran Saint Claude, 97120, Guadeloupe
Website: Guadeloupe National Park
Opening hours: Fri: 8am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 4pm; Mon - Tue: 8am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5pm; Wed: 8am - 1pm; Thu: 8am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free
Tip from Content Creator
This was one of the best and most fun hikes I’ve ever done in my life. Guadeloupe National Park is where you can find the really impressive Carbet Waterfalls.
There are 3 waterfalls. We were only able to hike to see 2 because of time constraints, and although it was a challenging hike and the weather wasn’t the best, it was worth every effort. I never thought I would enjoy hiking in the rain, but the atmosphere created by the fog was just perfect.
5. Tour the pristine Marie-Galante
Marie-Galante is a small island in Guadeloupe that is sometimes called the “Big Pancake” because of its flat terrain and circular shape. This activity in Guadeloupe promises lush green leaves scattered on the island complemented by white sand beaches sitting beside clear waters. Everything about the island is laid back and serene. You shouldn’t forget to check out the Château Murat within the island, which is a late 19th-century ruin of a sugarcane plantation.
There are also a variety of restaurants serving creole specialties or more traditional French food in Marie-Galante. Only look forward to a rewarding and recreational adventure in Marie-Galante.
6. Tour Reimonenq Distillery - Museum of Rum
Every rum lover would not only love the taste of premium rum but will also enjoy being led through the history and process of rum making. The Rum Museum is a quirky museum that displays the history of rum. You will see an exciting display of various tools and equipment used in growing the cane, harvesting it, and processing it into rum. The museum also has a large room dedicated to insects, mostly butterflies, beetles and spiders. At the end of your tour, there is a rum-tasting session of the most exceptional agricultural rum.
Reimonenq Distillery
Address: Sainte Rose, Guadeloupe
Website: Reimonenq Distillery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
7. Stroll through Deshaies Botanical Garden
The beauty of nature displayed in flowers and wildlife as they bloom in Deshaies Botanical Garden is breathtakingly beautiful. Inside this 7-hectare (17.3-acre) park, you are surrounded by a vista of Caribbean flora. The beautiful flowers like bougainvillea, hibiscus, orchids, and garden wildlife are very appealing to watch. There is also a world of palm trees and tropical trees to scan through. At lunch, you can enjoy your meals overlooking the Caribbean Sea, taking in all the beauty of the scenery.
Deshaies Botanical Garden
Address: Deshaies, Guadeloupe
Website: Deshaies Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 14.41 USD
8. Indulge in Caribbean seafood at La Touna
This Caribbean seafood restaurant boasts some of the best food in Guadeloupe and is located very close to the beach of Malendure. Apart from the exotic meals that La Touna boasts, the views are also magnificent. It offers a 180-degree view of the Caribbean Sea and the Pigeon Islands as well as the Cousteau Reserve. It also has a breathtaking view of the Ilets.
This is a gastronomic restaurant that serves a delicious array of foods. The tuna tartar & avocado cream is a must-have. You should not forget to have a taste of Fricassee Creole of Chatro - a traditional simmered dish.
La Touna
Address: Pigeon-Malendure Bouillante GP 97125, Guadeloupe
Website: La Touna
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 7pm - 9:30pm; Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; Tue - Thu: 12pm - 2pm, 7pm - 9pm
9. Hike to Fort Napoleon to enjoy breathtaking views
Breathtaking, memorable, magnificent: these are words for the views offered to tourists on Guadeloupe’s miniature archipelago of Les Saintes – Fort Napoleon. This fort is located 114 meters (374 feet) above sea level from where you can enjoy scenic views of the sea. It was initially a prison but it now serves as an incredible attraction with views overlooking botanical gardens filled with exotic cactus species. After viewing, you can descend on foot or aboard an electric scooter.
Fort Napoleon
Address: Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe
Opening hours: 9am - 12:30pm (daily)
10. Experience yoga on a paddle board (from USD 33.0)
Imagine having your Yoga session on the sea with all its calming vibes and beauty. This unique yoga paddle experience is a meditation time where you are connected to Mother Nature. Take up your favorite yoga position on the lagoon, which gives off exceptional colors under the Caribbean morning sun. If you are not reveling in a session of hatha yoga, you can paddle through the waters or enjoy some time out on any of the pleasant beaches.
Yoga Paddle Aqua Zen, yoga on a floating carpet in connection with nature!
Duration: 1 hour
11. Explore canyoning in Ravine Chaude (from USD 71.0)
Thinking of something wild to do in Guadeloupe? Then exploring the canyon of Ravine Chaude is an excellent option for you. This five-hour-long excursion in the heart of a rain forest is certainly an exciting activity. Just get your waterproof bag, socks, and some snacks for this canyoning experience accompanied by a professional guide. After going through the five abseils, you can take a plunge in the Bassin Bleu. Doesn’t that sound interesting?
Basse Terre: Half-Day Canyoning Trip
Duration: 5 hour
12. Embark on a thrilling SeaBob ride (from USD 90.0)
Of the various activities to indulge in while on the sea, a SeaBob ride stands out as exciting and adventurous. With the SeaBob, you can get to a depth of 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) underwater exploring coral reefs and sea turtles. The adventure is epic, and the experience while exploring the underwater is a memory to keep. You can also glide on the surface at 20 km/h (12.4 mi/h). At a slow speed, you can enjoy snorkeling with the equipment provided.
Seabob Rental in Guadeloupe
Duration: 30 minutes
13. Attend a 'Death in Paradise' TV series tour (from USD 141.0)
This tour takes you through the historic north part of Basse-Terre. Significant among the places to be seen is the site for the filming of the British-French comedy - The Death In Paradise TV Series in the village of Deshaies. The experienced guide shares with you a detailed commentary on the filming of the series and general history of the village’s native Amerindians. Experience the surreal feeling of going through essential locations from the series, like DI Humphrey’s beach house, Catherine’s Bar and a host of others.
The Death in Paradise TV Series Tour from Guadeloupe
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
14. Book a sea kayaking tour (from USD 17.0)
Named after Pelican species, the town of Gosier is filled with fun activities to keep you occupied while vacationing. It is the third most populated community in Guadeloupe. The beaches are scenic and lined with palm trees. The water is warmed by the Caribbean sun and it is perfect for all kinds of water sports. The kayaking experience in Gosier is superb, with a professional guide on hand to help you through. l’îlet du Gosier is a small uninhabited island filled with tropical beaches and it also features a lighthouse where you can spend pleasant moments.
See through Kayaking
Duration: 3 hours
15. Discover the ecosystem of Grande Terre Island (from USD 102.0)
Grande Terre Island is located on the east side of Guadeloupe. The island features picturesque views of nature and other exciting attractions. This tour offers a relaxing cruise through the island with well-informed commentaries on your favorite spots. From Pointe des châteaux to Morne-à-l'Eau cemetery for those beautiful landscape pictures to the must-explore Distillerie Damoiseau, the excitement never stops. You can also enjoy a midday stop for local food lunch, which is included in the tour.
Grande-Terre Island Day Tour
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
16. Explore the beautiful Basse-Terre Island (from USD 118.0)
This tour is an opportunity for a personalized tour of the remarkable Basse Terre Island. With transportation included, this tour is convenient. The tour guide leads you through your selected choice of attraction, giving necessary information on the natural environment and history of the island. From visiting the Cousteau Underwater Marine Reserve to exploring the Carbet Falls, and the exotic display of fruit and vegetables in Basse Market, there is so much to appreciate. You will also take a midday break for lunch at a local restaurant.
Basse-Terre Island Day Tour
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
17. Explore the scenic coastline on horseback (from USD 62.0)
Exploring on horseback, along paths that lie between land and sea, sounds exciting enough. It gets better as you get to see the ruins of the iconic windmill and sugar factory in Basse Terre. From the comfort of horseback, you can enjoy beautiful views of the coast, lush vegetation of the surrounding forest and green pastures. The tour guide is always available with information and equipment to cater to a small group of 10 or less on this tour. You also get a complimentary drink.
Balade à Cheval
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
18. Rent a paddle board to explore the lagoon of St. Francis (from USD 71.0)
Paddle away in the beautiful bay of St. Francis. This is one exciting way to spend your time while on an island getaway. A paddleboard is provided on the tour. The different lagoons offer a variety of fun-filled but altogether relaxing experience which can be enjoyed with a group of friends or individually. The beaches in St. Francis are peaceful and beautiful, and so is the rest of the small town.
Lagoon Paddle Board Hike - Randonnée Lagon Paddle Board
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
19. Learn about the history of coffee and vanilla agriculture in Vanibel Estate (from USD 10.0)
Any coffee lover should not miss out on the opportunity to visit Le Domaine de Vanibel and explore the rich culture of growing coffee. See the 10 hectares (24.7 acres) of coffee grown under shade to prevent it from being burned out under the sun. Observe how the coffee is hand-harvested. The family that owns the farm will also gladly tell you about the mythical vanilla flower, which is pollinated by hand. The best part comes at the end when you get to have a taste of a cup of well-brewed Vanibel coffee.
Admission Ticket to Le Domaine de Vanibel
Duration: 1 hour
20. Have fun at Karukeraland Adventure Water Park
Guadeloupe does not leave out children in all the fun it offers. Karukeraland Adventure and Water Park is a pleasant family recreation center on Grande Terre Island. The park also has a wildlife section where you can observe over 200 species of animals, including swans, peacocks, llamas, ponies, and other eye-catching species. Children can go on the swings and slide down the safe, beautiful slides. There is also tennis and space for golf on-site. You can also have a splash in the water or enjoy any other watersports.
Skip the Line: Karukeraland Adventure Water Park Admission Ticket
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
21. Enjoy an aerial view of Pointe des Chateaux aboard an aircraft (from USD 89.0)
Everything always looks better from the top. In this case, ‘better’ seems like an adjective that is too light for the beauty of the aerial view of Saint Francois. On this tour, you will enjoy 20 to 25 minutes of flying through the Saint Francois sky with a bird’s eye view of the lush vegetation and sea below you. This private tour is for two, and you will be looking through the window of a ULM two-seater plane. The journey is wheelchair accessible, and so is the transportation to the pickup point.
Point Des Chateaux Aerial ULM Excursion - Excursion Aérienne ULM P.D.C
22. Take part in a fun-filled water canyon excursion (from USD 84.0)
This two-hour long excursion comes with a glint of adventure and it is ideal for everyone, including children. After a 15-minute hike, you will arrive at the edge of the great plain river. With a full suit and helmet provided, you can slide down the river on the commune of Pointe Noire. The surrounding tropical rainforest is a beautiful slice of nature that you will enjoy exploring. A day in this tropical rainforest will leave imprinted memories you will share warmly with others.
Water Canyon Excursion 69 Euros - Excursion Canyon Aquatique 65 Euros
Duration: 3 hours
23. Learn diving for a safe exploration of underwater beauty (from USD 79.0)
Located in Bouillante, Reserve Cousteau is a protected marine area on Basse Terre Island. It is an ideal destination for first-time divers. Whether you are alone or leaning on the help of an experienced instructor, exploring the beauty of the underwater is such an exciting adventure. Enjoy the silence of the world under and the variety of marine vegetation not found on the surface. You will experience Guadeloupe warm waters first hand in Reserve Cousteau, and it is very safe, even for children from six years and above.
First Time Diving - Baptême Plongée
24. Witness Guadeloupe’s whale species in their natural habitat (from USD 73.0)
The beauty of an animal in its natural habitat is a sight to behold. Guadeloupe has the privilege of having the presence of 17 species of whales housed in their natural habitat. A tour would see you excitedly identifying them alongside an experienced guide who helps you through. The excitement of spotting the humpback whales and their offspring, from December to May, is memorable. You can hear and see for yourself all you have read about whales, including the sound they emit. The tour has light refreshments, water, and alcoholic beverages.
Whale Watching in Guadeloupe
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
25. Embark on an off-road adventure (from USD 118.0)
This eight-hour tour of Guadeloupe offers an opportunity to see the best of the island first hand with family and friends. You have the options of touring North Basse-Terre, South Basse-Terre or Grande Terre which comes with complimentary lunch at a local restaurant. Any of the options will keep you touring through beautiful trails, scenic landscapes, and idyllic beaches. Discover the secrets of rum-making at The Damoiseau Rum Distillery to exploring the fishing ports of Sainte-Rose; there are so many memories to make on this beautiful adventure.
Guadeloupe Nature 4x4 Tour
Duration: 8 hours
26. Hike the soaring La Soufriere Volcano (from USD 62.0)
As daunting as walking on an active volcano sounds, the views and excitement of the hike make it worth your while. An experienced tour guide who knows all about flora and fauna around is available to take you through the steep but well-maintained trails and changing vegetation as you climb. At the top of La Soufriere, you are wrapped in misty clouds and the smell of sulfur. The hike to the top is an exhilarating 1467 meters (0.911miles), but it rewards you with panoramic views of the tremendous lush environment.
Hike La Soufrière Volcano
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
27. Explore Guadeloupe Zoo (from USD 17.0)
The hundreds of plant species, 85 animal species, and an insectarium in Guadeloupe Zoo are surrounded by a rich, indigenous tropical forest. The animal species in the zoo are from Guyana and the Caribbean and they mix well into the surrounding 4-acre (1.6-hectare) forest. You can easily spot spider monkeys, jaguars, or raccoons. The insectarium shows off the smaller species of animals including scorpions, cassava ants and the biggest beetle in the world. The onsite restaurant serves delectable dishes which you can branch and enjoy while you tour.
Skip the Line: Guadeloupe Zoo Admission Pass Ticket
Duration: 1 day
28. Stroll through the buzzing Pointe-a-Pitre (from USD 130.0)
Right at the junction of Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, you will find Pointe-a-Pitre, the economic capital of Guadeloupe. The tour takes you through all the essential and beautiful places in this historical city with an offer of lunch and a tour guide. The market at Darse has an impressive display of fresh fruits and vegetables. There is an included ticket to the Memorial Acte Museum where you can interact with the city’s history. Place de la Victoire is a large public square facing the sea where you can enjoy walks while holding hands.
Pointe-a-Pitre Historical Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 8 hours
29. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Guadeloupe (from USD 67.0)
The pristine waters in Guadeloupe have the sun shining down on it, making it warm and perfect for a swim. With the equipment provided on tour, you can also enjoy a day of snorkeling through the clear waters. Wading through the waters, you will find several marine species like the tropical fishes, nestled in the protected coral reefs and mangroves. After exploring the mangroves of Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, the added entrance ticket to Gosier Aquarium is also a unique sight to behold.
Snorkeling in the Lagoon and around the Islets in Guadeloupe
Duration: 1 day
30. Explore the marine biodiversity by scuba diving (from USD 67.0)
The pristine waters in Guadeloupe provide over 25 diving sites along the coastline. The waters are shallow and are perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving with children. There is also a training instructor who will train you before you take the dive, and there are professional guides to help. The biological diversity and colorful marine life around the diving spots are scenic and memorable. From sighting humpback whales to admiring beautiful corals, there is a lot to enjoy on this tour. You can always relax with a bottle of water or juice provided.
Guadeloupe Scuba Diving Packages
Duration: 3 hours
31. Go fishing at Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin (from USD 327.0)
If you enjoy the luxury of fishing, then Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin is the right spot for you. Found between Basse Terre and Grande Terre, this place is filled with mangrove trees on the River Salee. The experienced guide will lead you through the mangrove forest, identifying the spots to catch beautiful fishes. In a bid to preserve the ecosystem, the various fishes caught are thrown back into the sea. Coffee, tea, or water alongside the panoramic view around makes an ideal spot to see.
Mangrove Sport Fishing
Duration: 6 to 9 hours
32. Set sail on a scenic cruise along the Deshaies (from USD 347.0)
This tour of the beautiful community of Deshaies takes you through Kahouanne Island, the bay of Pointe Noire, Thomas, and Morphy. The 44-foot (14-meter) Bavaria yacht allows you to enjoy the excellent feeling of the wind rushing through your hair and the scenic view of the flat sea. Morning snacks and tea can be savored with your private circle on board the yacht. Once the boat is anchored, hop into the waters for a great time of snorkeling and swimming.
Guadeloupe: Deshaies Private Sailing Cruise
Duration: 3 hours
A French-Caribbean island getaway awaits you
Guadeloupe is an ideal getaway location where you can get the best interaction with nature’s beauty. The Caribbean sun warms the waters and white sand beaches, making perfect spots for sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking or just taking a swim. Guadeloupe’s surroundings speak of its history with an exciting blend of culture. The things to do in Guadeloupe are always fun-filled and engaging. The memories of this getaway are unforgettable, so pack up and get ready for the time of your life.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in Guadeloupe
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