Guadeloupe Uncovered: 10 Amazing Places to Visit on This French-Caribbean Island

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you uncover 10 amazing places to visit in Guadeloupe, ensuring seamless communication while exploring the French-Caribbean island’s stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Guadeloupe, a picturesque French overseas department in the Caribbean Sea, is an island paradise that will dazzle you with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant Creole culture, and fascinating history. This butterfly-shaped archipelago, composed of the main islands Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre along with several smaller islands, offers a diverse array of things to do in Guadalupe. From lounging on pristine beaches to exploring lush national parks and indulging in delectable cuisine, Guadeloupe has something for every type of traveler.

1. Pointe des Châteaux, Grande-Terre

Kick off your Guadeloupe adventure at Pointe des Châteaux, a rugged peninsula on the easternmost tip of Grande-Terre. This scenic spot, classified as a ‘Grand Site de France’, features dramatic cliffs sculpted by the Atlantic Ocean, with sweeping views of the neighboring islands of La Désirade, Petite Terre, and Marie-Galante.

• Take a short hike to the top of the cliffs for panoramic vistas

• Visit the small chapel and cross at the summit

• Explore the nearby beaches, such as Anse des Châteaux and Anse à la Gourde

2. Mémorial ACTe, Pointe-à-Pitre

Delve into Guadeloupe’s complex history at the Mémorial ACTe museum in Pointe-à-Pitre, the island’s largest city. This modern museum traces the history of slavery and the slave trade, offering a thought-provoking and educational experience.

• Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits

• Stroll through the memorial garden with its symbolic “Black River” water feature

• Visit on a guided tour for added insights and context

3. Sainte-Anne Beach, Grande-Terre

No trip to Guadeloupe is complete without spending a day at one of its gorgeous beaches. Sainte-Anne Beach, located on the southern coast of Grande-Terre, is a picture-perfect stretch of white sand fringed by swaying palm trees and turquoise waters.

4. Parc National de la Guadeloupe, Basse-Terre

Nature lovers and hikers will be in their element at the Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve encompasses over 74,100 acres of lush rainforest, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks.

• Hike the Traverse Trail, which crosses the park from east to west

• Spot native wildlife like the endemic Guadeloupe woodpecker and raccoon

• Take a refreshing dip in the Cascade aux Écrevisses waterfall

5. La Soufrière Volcano, Basse-Terre

Challenge yourself with a hike up La Soufrière, an active volcano and the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles at 1,467 meters. The trail to the summit winds through dense rainforest and past steaming fumaroles, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.

• Allow 3-4 hours for the round-trip hike

• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and rain gear

• Consider hiring a local guide for added safety and information

6. Deshaies Botanical Garden, Basse-Terre

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of the tropics at the Deshaies Botanical Garden. This beautifully landscaped, 7-hectare garden features themed areas showcasing native and exotic plant species, as well as an aviary with colorful parrots.

• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the designated areas

• Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

• Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Grande Anse beach

7. Memorial Square, Pointe-à-Pitre

Soak up the lively atmosphere of Pointe-à-Pitre at Memorial Square (Place de la Victoire), the city’s main square. Surrounded by colorful Creole-style buildings, the square features a central statue commemorating the abolition of slavery and often hosts cultural events and performances.

• Visit the bustling Spice Market nearby for local produce and souvenirs

• Grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes and people-watch

• Attend a live music or dance performance in the evening

8. Guadeloupe Zoo, Basse-Terre

Animal lovers won’t want to miss the Guadeloupe Zoo (Parc des Mamelles) in Bouillante. This wildlife park is home to a diverse array of animals from the Caribbean and Guyana, including monkeys, raccoons, jaguars, and tropical birds.

• Take a walk through the treetop canopy on the park’s rope bridges

• Attend a keeper talk or animal feeding session

• Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the park

9. Marie-Galante Island

Escape to the laid-back island of Marie-Galante, known for its stunning beaches, sugar cane fields, and historic windmills. This island, nicknamed the “Big Pancake” due to its flat terrain, offers a glimpse into Guadeloupe’s agricultural past.

• Visit Château Murat, a former sugar plantation turned museum

• Relax on the white sands of Feuillère Beach or Anse Canot

• Take a tour of the Bélé distillery to sample local rum

10. Les Saintes Islands

Hop aboard a ferry from Trois-Rivières to explore the picturesque Les Saintes archipelago, composed of nine small islands off the southern coast of Guadeloupe. The two main islands, Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas, boast charming villages, secluded beaches, and scenic hiking trails.

• Climb to Fort Napoléon for panoramic views of the islands

• Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of Pain de Sucre Beach

• Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants

Cruising to Guadeloupe and Staying Connected with Airtel

Cruises to Guadeloupe are a popular way to explore the islands, with many itineraries including stops in Pointe-à-Pitre and other Caribbean destinations. When planning your Guadeloupe getaway, consider Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming plans to stay connected throughout your trip. With affordable data and voice packages, you can easily stay in touch with loved ones, access travel apps, and share your adventures on social media without worrying about high roaming charges. Learn more about Airtel’s International Roaming plans to find the perfect option for your travel needs.

From the stunning beaches of Guadalupe to the lush Guadeloupe National Park and the intriguing Guadeloupe Zoo, this French-Caribbean archipelago offers an unforgettable tropical escape. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure or cultural immersion, Guadeloupe’s diverse attractions and welcoming Creole hospitality will leave you enchanted. Start planning your Guadeloupe itinerary today and get ready to discover the best that this Caribbean gem has to offer.