Walks
Walks in Guadeloupe are characterized by a wide variety of environments : dense tropical forests, mangroves, sugar cane fields, sandy coastlines, and waterfalls accessible via well-maintained trails. The climate, with average temperatures between 25°C and 28°C and humidity levels that can exceed 80%, promotes lush vegetation on Basse-Terre, while the drier Grande-Terre features landscapes that alternate between grassy savannas and agricultural fields.
Rainfall, often concentrated between June and November, keeps the forest floor moist, sometimes making certain paths more slippery. Closed-toe shoes, a hat, mosquito repellent, and at least 1 liter of water per person are recommended. Most of the selected trails are regularly marked, provide educational information on flora, fauna, and history, and offer different levels of difficulty suitable for both occasional and experienced hikers.
Diversity of ecosystems to explore
The island, recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, is home to more than 300 species of ferns, endemic trees, and numerous bird species, including the Guadeloupe woodpecker (Melanerpes herminieri) and the Madeira hummingbird. The mangroves, made up of red (Rhizophora mangle), black, and white mangroves, protect the coastline from erosion. The rainforests of Basse-Terre, dominated by gum trees, mahogany trees, tree ferns, and epiphytes, are …
…home to a large part of the island's terrestrial biodiversity. The terrain, with altitudes exceeding 1,400 meters at the summit of La Soufrière, creates different vegetation zones, while the plains of Grande-Terre are more suitable for crops (sugar cane, bananas)..
Gaschet Trail : walk around a reservoir
The Sentier de Gaschet, located in the north of Grande-Terre, near the Gaschet Dam, offers a loop of approximately 1.7 km. This easy circuit runs alongside a freshwater reservoir, which is important for agricultural irrigation. The vegetation along the banks, consisting of reeds, tall grasses, and a few introduced species, attracts water birds such as moorhens (Gallinula chloropus) and small herons. This trail, accessible almost all year round, has a low elevation gain of less than 50 meters. It provides an overview of water resource management in Guadeloupe, with information panels on the history of the dam, which was built in the 1980s. The birdwatching stop, equipped with a shelter, facilitates the study of birdlife, especially in the early morning.
Poyen Trail : immersion in the wetlands
The Poyen Trail, located near Petit Canal, runs through a forest and wetland environment for approximately 5 km round trip. The trail is paved with tuff, making it easy to walk on. The ground temperature remains high, as the vegetation cover limits wind flow, but the humidity is conducive to observing halophilic plants adapted to salty soils. Visitors learn about the relationship between humans and this environment, particularly the traditional harvesting of mangroves for wood. The trail is moderately difficult and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours of leisurely walking.
Trace of Babin Beach : marine benefits and clay mud
Babin Beach, located on the east coast of Grande-Terre, is known for its mineral-rich clay mud. A small footpath runs along the shore for a few hundred meters. The water is shallow, generally 1 meter or less, forming a natural bath with a constant temperature. The mud, renowned for its skin benefits, is used by bathers for skin care. The landscape offers a view of the seagrass beds, habitat of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) that sometimes come to feed. The trail is very easy, with virtually no elevation gain. Access by car is easy, and the surrounding area offers the opportunity to discover small fiddler crabs (Uca rapax) in the adjacent wetlands. The ideal times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are milder.
Beauport-Pays train ride : immerse yourself in the history of sugarcane
The Beauport site, located in a former sugar factory in Port-Louis, offers a trip aboard a small tourist train. The ride lasts about 30 to 45 minutes and covers several kilometers through the heart of the former sugar cane plantations. Commentary explains the historical role of sugar cane, introduced in the 17th century, its transformation into sugar and rum, and the evolution of agricultural techniques. The train passes through fields, the remains of agricultural infrastructure, and water points used for irrigation. This is not a walking trail, but a cultural alternative, an educational ride that helps visitors understand the close link between the landscape, the economy, and Guadeloupean society.
Crayfish Waterfall Trail : tropical forest and accessible waterfall
This trail, one of the most visited in Guadeloupe National Park, is located along Route de la Traversée (RD23) on Basse-Terre. Approximately 250 meters long, it leads to a small waterfall (falling about 3 to 4 meters) formed by the Corossol River. The path, which is wide and almost flat, has a non-slip surface, making it accessible to everyone, including strollers. The water in the waterfall is cooler than the sea, at around 20°C to 23°C. Native crayfish were once abundant here, reflecting the quality of the water, and today swimmers come here to cool off. The surrounding area is densely vegetated with tree ferns over 2 meters tall, gum trees, and other local species. Signs indicate the presence of birds and reptiles. The area is busiest in the late morning, so it's best to go early to enjoy the peace and quiet.
Other interesting routes and natural surroundings
Beyond these trails, Guadeloupe has more than 250 km of marked trails, mainly on Basse-Terre. The famous "Trace des ruisseaux" (Stream Trail) and "Trace Victor Hugues" (Victor Hugues Trail) allow visitors to explore the mountainous interior. The presence of Guadeloupe National Park, covering more than 22,000 hectares, ensures the preservation of fragile habitats. The forest ecosystems are home to the agouti (Dasyprocta leporina), an endemic rodent, the ti-racoon (local raccoon), and specific terrestrial mollusks.
Annual rainfall, exceeding 3,000 mm in the mountainous areas, feeds numerous rivers, waterfalls, and hot springs. Guadeloupe is ideal for trekking and moderate-paced walks, thanks to consistent temperatures throughout the year and a diversity of landscapes within an area of less than 1,700 km².
Precautions and respect for the environment
Walkers should wear suitable footwear, as some ground, especially in the forest, can be muddy and slippery. The national park and local authorities encourage visitors to respect the habitats : do not pick plants, do not disturb wildlife, and do not leave litter behind. Some paths may be temporarily closed after heavy rain, but information signs are regularly updated.
Careful observation of the flora allows you to spot wild orchids, some of which are endemic. Mosquitoes, especially in wet areas, require the use of repellents. Longer walks, exceeding 2 or 3 hours, require you to bring drinking water and light snacks. Regulations, indicated on official websites, specify whether a guide is recommended, particularly in the most remote areas.
Access, transportation, and best times to visit
The trails on Grande-Terre, such as Gaschet and Poyen, are accessible by car, about a 30- to 40-minute drive from Pointe-à-Pitre. Babin Beach is an easy 15- to 20-minute drive from Morne-À-l’Eau. Guadeloupe National Park, on the Basse-Terre side, is served by the Route de la Traversée, providing direct access to the Crayfish Waterfall and other trails.
Public transportation is more limited when traveling to rural areas. Car rental is often recommended. The shoulder seasons (December to May) offer drier conditions, reducing the risk of muddy trails. However, the vegetation is lush and green year-round thanks to regular rainfall, ensuring a consistently tropical setting.