Activities in Guadeloupe: Top 10 must-see experiences

At Le Nautilus, we’re passionate about the beauty and diversity of activities that our beautiful island, Guadeloupe, has to offer. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or just looking to relax, Guadeloupe will charm you. With our in-depth knowledge of the island, we promise you authentic and enriching experiences that go far beyond the beaten track. Trust us to turn your stay into a memorable journey, filled with discovery and magical moments. Here’s our selection of the 10 best activities not to be missed during your stay in Guadeloupe.

1. Diving in the Cousteau reserve at Bouillante

Diving in the Cousteau reserve at Bouillante is an unforgettable activity for sea lovers in Guadeloupe. This protected site, located around the îlets Pigeon, is a veritable jewel of underwater biodiversity, ranked among the most beautiful diving spots in the Caribbean.

This exceptional marine area pays homage to the famous explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who contributed greatly to its renown. Here, coral reefs are home to a multitude of colorful species: tropical fish, sea turtles, starfish, gorgonians and much more. The transparent waters offer optimum visibility, ideal for divers of all levels.

To find out more, read our guide: Where to snorkel in Guadeloupe?

A unique glass boat experience with Le Nautilus

For a unique experience, come aboard the Nautilus, our glass-bottomed boat, which offers a breathtaking view of the seabed without even submerging. Without getting wet, you can observe the underwater wonders through large panoramic windows. The reserve’s crystal-clear waters guarantee exceptional visibility, ideal for observing coral, sea turtles and other aquatic wonders. An ideal activity for children, non-swimmers or simply to admire the marine flora and fauna from the comfort of the boat.

This excursion, commented by passionate guides, will also enable you to learn more about the species encountered and the importance of protecting them. The Nautilus is a gentle, poetic and environmentally-friendly immersion in one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful marine sanctuaries.

Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, Réserve Cousteau offers sites to suit all levels.

Why is it a must-do activity?

• Guadeloupe natural heritage site
• Perfect for all profiles: divers, families, children
• Exceptional underwater visibility all year round
• Accessible by boat without diving equipment
• Guaranteed immersion with an ecological and educational approach

Don’t forget your camera to capture the magical moments of this extraordinary underwater experience.

2. Soufrière volcano hiking

Hiking the Soufrière volcano is a breathtaking activity in Guadeloupe, both literally and metaphorically. Located on Basse-Terre, La Soufrière, nicknamed the “Old Lady”, is the highest active volcano in the Lesser Antilles, rising to 1,467 metres. Its ascent offers breathtaking panoramic views over the island of Guadeloupe and beyond.

First, the path to the summit takes you through lush vegetation and varied landscapes, offering a true immersion in the wilderness. Along the way, you can observe geothermal phenomena such as fumaroles and hot springs, evidence of underground volcanic activity. We recommend setting off early in the morning to avoid the clouds that tend to envelop the summit in the afternoon.

A few tips before you go:

Keep an eye on the weather (it changes quickly) and find out about access roads, which are sometimes temporarily closed for safety reasons.

Leave early in the morning to take advantage of clear skies.

Bring sturdy hiking boots, windproof clothing and plenty of water, as the route can be demanding.

At the top, if the sky is clear, the panorama is breathtaking: from Basse-Terre to Grand Cul-de-sac Marin, all the way to the neighboring islands (Les Saintes, Marie-Galante…). An activity in Guadeloupe that appeals to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike, with the added bonus of the thrill of a volcano still alive beneath your feet.

3. Relax on Grande-Anse beach in Deshaies

Relaxing on Grande-Anse beach in Deshaies is one of the best things to do in Guadeloupe for lovers of idyllic landscapes, a place that invites escape and well-being. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe, Grande-Anse seduces with its fine golden sand , turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere, away from the big crowds.

Located on the northwest coast of Basse-Terre, this kilometer-long beach is surrounded by green hills and lined with coconut and grape trees, offering both natural shade and a picture-postcard setting. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy day, a family picnic or a siesta lulled by the sound of the waves.

The gentle sound of the waves and the sea breeze add to the peaceful, rejuvenating atmosphere.

On-site activities: snorkeling, paddling, kayaking

As for activities, snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted to discover the small coral reefs not far from the shore, home to colorful marine life. For the more active, kayaking and paddle boarding are also available, depending on the season.

Live for the moment… and taste local

Don’t miss out on the local specialities on offer from the small restaurants and foodtrucks lining the beach: fresh juices, homemade coconut sorbets, bokits and crispy accras. At the end of the day, the Grande-Anse beach is transformed into a breathtaking spectacle, with blazing sunsets offering an unforgettable panorama. The ideal place to sip a ti-punch at the end of the day, facing the horizon.

Farniente, swimming or discovering the seabed… Grande-Anse is an essential stopover on any top 10 list of activities in Guadeloupe. A true paradise not to be missed.

4. Visit the Guadeloupe Zoo

A visit to Guadeloupe’s zoological park, located on the route de la traversée, is an ideal activity for families and lovers of tropical nature. This park, nestled in the heart of lush vegetation, offers a unique experience combining animal discovery, jungle walks and species preservation awareness.

A rich biodiversity to observe

You’ll have the chance to observe animals up close, in areas carefully designed to respect their natural habitat:

• Monkeys, raccoons, jaguars and iguanas,
• Tropical birds (parrots, flamingos),
• Amazing reptiles and amphibians,
• And even a mini-farm for the little ones.

Committed to animal protection

The Guadeloupe zoo is also involved in conservation programs, playing a crucial role in the protection of endangered species.

An accessible, fun family activity

The park’s shady paths offer a pleasant and educational walk, ideal for families with children. Visits last an average of 1h30 to 2h, and are suitable for all ages.

Information panels line the route, providing interesting facts about the flora and fauna you encounter. For an even more immersive experience, the park offers meetings with the caretakers, enabling you to understand the daily life and issues involved in preserving the animals. Combining tropical walks, animal observation and an ecological approach, this park is a natural top 10 activity in Guadeloupe, especially if you’re traveling with the family.

5. Discover the Carbet Falls in Capesterre-Belle-Eau

Discovering the Carbet Falls in Capesterre-Belle-Eau is a must-do activity in Guadeloupe for lovers of breathtaking natural scenery. One of the highest waterfalls in the Caribbean, they are a spectacular sight in the heart of the Guadeloupean rainforest.

Three falls, three moods

• The first waterfall, the most accessible, plunges 115 metres and is easily observable from a landscaped walkway.
• The second waterfall, 110 meters high, requires a hike through lush forest, offering total immersion in the island’s wilderness.
• The third waterfall, although the smallest at 20 metres, is a hidden gem, accessible only to experienced hikers. The path to the falls is punctuated by magnificent views of the dense vegetation and local wildlife. The humid, refreshing atmosphere around the falls is a real blessing in this tropical climate.

Each level offers total immersion in nature, with the constant sound of water, the calls of tropical birds and the discreet presence of small toads or lizards.

Tips for your visit :

Go early to avoid the crowds, especially in high season.

Bring good walking shoes, a light raincoat and water.

Check the weather forecast before setting off (trails may be closed in heavy rain).

6. Set sail for the Saintes Islands

Among the must-do excursions in Guadeloupe, a day trip to the Îles des Saintes is always one of the travellers’ favourites.

Located in the south of the Guadeloupe archipelago, these islands offer a picture-postcard setting: crystal-clear waters, fine sandy beaches, idyllic surroundings and a preserved Creole heritage.

Departing from Trois-Rivières or Pointe-à-Pitre, the boat trip is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular views of the archipelago and the chance to spot dolphins playing in the waves.

Terre-de-Haut: charm, color and art of living

Once you’ve arrived, Terre-de-Haut stands out for its charming village of colorful houses and welcoming alleyways, inviting you to take a stroll.

On the program:

• A stroll through the village on foot or electric scooter,
• A visit to Fort Napoléon, with its free-roaming iguanas and breathtaking views,
• A seaside lunch featuring seafood and the famous tourment d’amour, a sweet delicacy typical of the Saintes.

Water sports in an unspoilt lagoon

The waters around Les Saintes are perfect for scuba diving or snorkeling, with exceptional visibility and rich coral reefs. You can also rent a kayak or paddle to cruise along the creeks and enjoy the calm of the area.

Finally, a ride on a scooter or electric bike is a fun and enjoyable way to discover the picturesque landscapes and secret beaches of these islands.

7. Marvel at Pointe des Châteaux in Saint-François

Located at the eastern tip of Grande-Terre, Pointe des Châteaux is an exceptional natural site that’s a must-see during your stay. It offers a wild and powerful setting, where the land seems to flow into the Atlantic Ocean. This peninsula offers breathtaking scenery, where the sea meets impressive rock formations. It’s one of Guadeloupe’s most photogenic spots, and undoubtedly one of the best places to admire a sunrise or sunset.

As you stroll along the marked trails, you’ll be struck by the spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean, whose waves break forcefully against the cliffs. The Pointe des Châteaux, with its rocks sculpted by wind and waves, evokes an almost lunar setting. From the top of the cross on the site, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama of the neighbouring islands of La Désirade, Petite-Terre and Marie-Galante.

The local flora and fauna, adapted to a windy marine environment, add to the uniqueness of the place. Last but not least, Pointe des Châteaux is a place steeped in legend and history, making a visit to this exceptional natural site all the more rewarding.

8. Visit a rum distillery

A visit to the Bologne rum distillery in Basse-Terre is a fascinating way to explore the world of rum in Guadeloupe, the emblematic beverage of the West Indies. Located at the foot of the Soufrière volcano, this historic distillery boasts a natural setting and exceptional views, ideal for growing sugar cane.

An immersive visit in an exceptional setting

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the bewitching aroma of rum being distilled. The guided tour will take you through the rum-making process, from harvesting the sugar cane to bottling:

• Cutting the cane,
• Pressing, fermentation, distillation,
• Barrel filling and bottling.

Tasting and souvenirs

You’ll also learn about the history of the Bologna distillery, which combines tradition and modernity in the production of its rums. A tasting session will give you the opportunity to savor different types of rum, each with its own unique character and aromas.

Don’t miss a stroll through the distillery gardens, where you can admire the sugarcane fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Finally, the distillery store is the ideal place to buy a bottle of Bologna rum as a souvenir of your visit to Guadeloupe.

=> To visit a distillery in Guadeloupe is to taste the soul of the island. A cultural, gustatory and human activity to be included without hesitation in your top 10 things to do in Guadeloupe.

9. Kayaking in the Port-Louis mangroves

Among the most authentic and eco-friendly activities to be enjoyed in Guadeloupe, a kayak excursion in the Port-Louis mangrove offers a unique perspective on this vital ecosystem. Gliding along the calm waters, you’ll immediately be enveloped by the tranquility and natural beauty of the mangrove.

See the mangroves from the inside

This activity lets you explore the natural channels and tunnels formed by the intertwined roots of the mangrove trees. Paddling at your own pace, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a rich biodiversity, including various species of birds, fish and perhaps even small mangrove crabs:

• Fiddler crabs running on roots,
• Fish jumping to the surface,
• Herons, egrets and pelicans on the banks,
• Schools of small fish in the clearer areas.

A gentle, committed activity

The experience of kayaking in the mangroves is also a living lesson in the importance of these forests in protecting coasts and preserving marine habitats. Local guides, often available for these excursions, enrich the trip with commentary on the fauna, flora and ecosystem of the mangrove.

This activity in Guadeloupe is accessible to all, requiring no previous kayaking experience. Finally, kayaking in the mangroves of Port-Louis is not only a relaxing activity, but also a respectful way to connect with nature without disturbing it.

10. Stroll through the Sainte-Anne market

It’s impossible to list the top 10 things to do in Guadeloupe without mentioning immersion in the local culture. A stroll through the Sainte-Anne market is a colorful and lively activity in Guadeloupe, reflecting the authenticity and cultural richness of Guadeloupe. Located in the heart of this charming seaside town, the market is a veritable festival of colors, sounds and scents.

Stroll among the stalls and discover a multitude of local products:

• Fresh tropical fruits (guavas, mangoes, maracujas, etc.),
• Colourful, fragrant spices,
• Arranged rums, jams, syrups,
• Traditional Creole crafts: seed jewelry, madras, woven objects.

A journey of taste

The friendly sales staff will be delighted to share the secrets of their products and Creole cuisine with you. Don’t miss out on local specialties such as accras, bokits or coconut sorbets, a real treat for the taste buds. The Sainte-Anne market is also the ideal place to find unique souvenirs, such as seed jewelry or objects made from madras, the island’s emblematic fabric. The bright colors of the fruits, vegetables and fabrics, combined with the rhythms of the local music, create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere.

Finally, a visit to the Sainte-Anne market is a lively cultural experience, an immersion in the daily life of Guadeloupeans and an opportunity to enjoy an authentic and memorable experience.

FAQ – Activities in Guadeloupe

What activities can families enjoy in Guadeloupe?
Visits to the zoo, a glass-bottomed boat trip to the Cousteau reserve or the Sainte-Anne market are perfect for young and old alike.

What sporting activities are available in Guadeloupe?
Hiking at La Soufrière, kayaking in the mangroves, scuba diving, surfing and canyoning are among the most popular sporting activities.

Where to see Guadeloupe’s most beautiful landscapes?
Pointe des Châteaux, the Carbet Falls and the Saintes Islands offer some of the archipelago’s most spectacular panoramas.

When is the best time to enjoy activities in Guadeloupe?
The dry season, from December to May, is ideal for excursions and outdoor activities.

For further information, see our practical guides:

• What to do in Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe
• Where to go snorkeling in Guadeloupe?

In conclusion, Guadeloupe, with its mosaic of activities and landscapes, offers a rich and diverse travel experience. Whether exploring the marine depths of the Cousteau reserve, climbing the slopes of the majestic Soufrière, or basking on the heavenly beaches of Grande-Anse, every moment spent on this island is an enchantment. Guadeloupe’s natural, cultural and gastronomic treasures promise unforgettable discoveries and enriching encounters. Colorful markets, rum distilleries steeped in history, and excursions into unique ecosystems such as the mangrove swamp, are all activities that will plunge you into the heart of the Guadeloupean soul.

At Le Nautilus, we’re proud to guide you through these wonders and share the beauty of our island with you. We hope this top 10 has inspired you for your next trip and future activities in Guadeloupe, a destination that never fails to surprise and delight its visitors. Come and discover for yourself why so many travelers fall in love with our butterfly island. Guadeloupe awaits you with open arms for an unforgettable adventure!

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