La Soufriere Volcano

It is the highest mountain situated in the middle of Basse-Terre and is a spectacular day trip! It can be done in half a day, however you need to be fit and we recommend wearing shoes and taking sufficient amount of water! If you ant a tour group, contact HazEco.

The volcano hike is a breathtaking experience, one of the great things to do in Guadeloupe – however it isn’t for the faint hearted. In 2004 the main parking lot was destroyed by a landslide so you are now obliged to park further down which means an extra 30 minute hike through the forest. The sulphar smell is not very intoxicating at all. A bit of trivia: originally the steam was condensed and used as a medicinal drink.

Capesterre-Belle-Eau

Situated in the south east of Basse-Terre, Chutes du Carbet is the most popular destination in the region and also of Guadeloupe, comprising of three huge cascades, which is a must see! The first one is difficult to acces and reserved to specialists, the third one needs 2 hours of hiking and has an incredible 20 meter high water-fall. The second one is easier to access taking approximately 1 hour to get there and back, however it’s still a great walk with only the sounds of falling water in the mangroves. The view is simply breathtaking!

Kassavery of Capesterre-Belle-Eau is potentially one of the last places in the Lesser Antilles where you can taste the famous cake of Manioc made of coconut and banana.

Visit a Rhumerie – Rum distillery

Severin distillery in Sainte Rose is a little more industrial and cleaner than others. They’re very friendly and you’re able to freely taste rum, punch and anything else they’re brewing. They have a garden in the back and a guide to explain the numerous plants etc.

Isle de Pigeon

One of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving, Isle de Pigeon is a small island just off the West Coast of Basse Terre above Bouillante. The sea is not very deep and is perfect for snorkeling as you will see similar views as those who dive! You’re not obliged to take a boat, you can also hire a kayak and paddle or join a kayak trip as the island is only approximately 1km from the shore. By the way, there are no pigeons here, despite the name!

Reserve Cousteau is one of the best places on Isle de Pigeon. There are boat trips here with glass bottoms so you can admire the coral reef and vast array of sea life. Some boats will stop after about an hour and you can borrow a mask, tuba and palms and jump in the sea to see up close what’s out there. The captain will then attract fish with bread, so they can swim right next to you. You may need to inquire about this before. Make sure to think about villas to rent for holidays in advance.

Iles des Saints – Islands of the Saints

Iles des Saints is a group of picturesque islands south of Basse-Terre. There are very few cars and the best way to visit is to rent a scooter or walk. There are a number of historical sites to visit. There is a number of beautiful beaches, in particular ‘Pain de sucre’, along with various shops, galleries, restaurants and the like

Terre-de-Haut is the largest and most populated islands of Les Saintes. It is an incredible place with fabulous walking, snorkeling, and places to stay and eat. Many people take only day trips to this island, but its worth a few nights in its own right. If you’re looking for empty beaches, a quaint village, and the feeling of having an island all to yourself, this is the place for you.

To get there you can take a boat from either Trois rivieres, Pointe a pitre or St francois and potentially some other places.

P.S. Looking for the packing tips? Read more about the checklist for packing for vacation.

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