Tra-vel

Destination

Guadeloupe National Park

Country: Guadeloupe Updated:

Guadeloupe National Park protects Basse-Terre’s moist forests, the La Soufrière volcanic massif, rivers, waterfalls, mangroves and the archipelago’s marine ecosystems. Forest paths wind through tree ferns and vegetation rich in epiphytes, while the Carbet River forms three well-known waterfalls. Mountain weather changes rapidly, so the park should be planned as a real natural area rather than an urban attraction.

AI illustration of tropical forest and a waterfall in Guadeloupe National Park
Image: AI illustration · Rights: no public licence for reuse has been specified.

When to go

December to April usually brings less rain, making hikes easier to plan, although mountain fog and showers remain possible at any time. In the wetter season, the forest is especially lush and waterfalls carry more water, but trails become slippery, rivers can rise rapidly and visibility decreases. Start early and check trail conditions in the morning.

Things to see and do

Visit the second Carbet waterfall, drive the forested Route de la Traversée and stop at Cascade aux Écrevisses. For a more demanding outing, take trails in the La Soufrière massif, strictly observing current exclusion zones around fumaroles and craters. Along the coast, the park extends into the mangrove and marine areas of Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, best explored with an authorised local guide.

Practical tips

Tropical rain can start suddenly, and streams and rivers can swell very quickly. Wear shoes with good grip, bring rain protection, water and a charged phone, do not cross rushing watercourses and do not cross barriers at La Soufrière. Avoid littering, removing plants and lighting fires outside designated places.

Getting there and getting around

The main land areas are on Basse-Terre. The Route de la Traversée is most conveniently reached by hire car from Pointe-à-Pitre or coastal towns, the Carbet waterfalls via the D4, and La Soufrière’s trails via Saint-Claude and Bains Jaunes. Public transport to remote starting points is limited, so hire cars or organised tours are more practical.

Where to stay

Saint-Claude suits early starts at La Soufrière, Capesterre-Belle-Eau is convenient for the Carbet waterfalls, and Pointe-Noire and Bouillante suit the west coast and marine areas. To combine nature with restaurants and beaches, choose accommodation on Basse-Terre and plan individual day trips.

What to try

Try cod accras, bokit, colombo with meat or fish, smoked boucané chicken, tropical fruit and coconut desserts. Along the coast, sea bream, tuna, spiny lobster and dishes with Creole spices are often available.

Official sources

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