La Soufrière
Region: Southern Basse-Terre Island
Nature
Active volcano at 1,467m elevation. Popular for sulfur vents at mid-slope and Caribbean views from summit.
Tourism in Guadeloupe
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Marché Couvert (Covered Market)
Region: Pointe-à-Pitre
Culture
Vibrant indoor market lined with spices, rum, and tropical fruits.
Grande Anse Beach
Region: Deshaies (Northwest Basse-Terre)
Nature
The island''s premier long beach with azure sea and golden sand.
Jardin Botanique de Deshaies
Region: Deshaies
Nature
Tropical botanical garden owned by actor Coluche, featuring colorful flowers and waterfalls.
Maison de la Cannelle (Cinnamon Museum)
Region: Saintes Island
Culture
Small museum introducing spice trade history and the island''s colonial era.
Creole House District
Region: Various Grande-Terre Island
Modern architecture
Streets with colorful wooden houses perfect for photos.
Caravelle Bay Marine Reserve
Region: Northern Grande-Terre
Nature
Ramsar Convention wetland with protected mangroves and coral reefs, popular for kayak tours.
Damoiseau Rum Distillery
Region: Le Moule
Industrial tourism
Founded in 1914, tours available with tastings afterward.
Fort Fleur d''Épée
Region: Basse-Terre
Cultural heritage
18th-century fortress with historical panels and scenic views.
Les Saintes Bay
Region: Terre-de-Haut Island
Nature
One of the world''s most beautiful bays, popular for island hopping and diving.
Suggested itineraries
Guadeloupe Main Island Tour 3 Days
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: La Soufrière trekking, Covered market stroll, Grande Anse Beach sunset
Short-term plan efficiently touring Basse-Terre''s volcano hiking and rainforest with Grande-Terre''s white sand beaches.
Enjoy Outer Islands 1 Week
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Les Saintes Bay cruise, Marie-Galante rum tour, La Désirade Island lighthouse
Leisurely course staying on main island plus three outer islands, savoring each''s culture, nature, and local cuisine.
Travel tips
- Rental car most convenient for transportation. Right-side driving with French road signs
- Euros circulate and credit cards widely accepted; cash essential on outer islands
- Dry season (December–April) is best tourism season; short squalls frequent in rainy season
- Tap water is potable but many residents prefer mineral water
- Strong sunlight requires sunscreen and hats
- Check weather information before travel during hurricane season (August–October)
- Mosquitoes abundant; take anti-insect measures. Dengue fever and chikungunya reported
- Public buses end early evening; use taxis or rental cars for night travel
- Medical standards high like mainland France but expensive; travel insurance essential
- Wi-Fi provided free at hotels and cafes but may be slow on outer islands