Sports activities

… home to the legendary Sec Pâté, an underwater mountain whose colorful coral formations attract groupers, barracudas, and stingrays.

Never been diving before ? No worries ! Local clubs offer introductory dives for ages 8 and up. When snorkeling, all you need is a simple mask to observe starfish and butterflyfish near the Pigeon Islets. But be careful: here, you don't touch anything except unforgettable memories!

Hiking and trekking : immersion in nature

Guadeloupe offers an exceptional playground for hiking enthusiasts. With over 300 kilometers of marked trails, it allows you to explore varied landscapes, ranging from tropical rainforests to steep volcanic ridges. Among the most iconic routes is the ascent of the Soufrière volcano, which rises to 1,467 meters and offers a unique panorama of the archipelago. Access is via the Pas-du-Roy trail, a 5-kilometer route that requires good physical condition.

The Carbet Falls, reaching up to 110 meters, are among the most visited natural sites. The trail leading to the second waterfall is accessible after a 1.5-hour walk, while the first waterfall requires more effort with a steeper climb. For an immersion in the heart of the mangrove, the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin trail allows you to explore this fragile ecosystem, where aerial roots and exotic birds intermingle.

Good preparation is essential : wear sturdy hiking boots, bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person, and check the weather forecast before setting off. Tropical rains can quickly turn some trails into slippery paths.

Sport fishing and sea excursions

The rich waters of Guadeloupe attract fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the west, the archipelago offers ideal conditions for deep-sea fishing. The depths quickly reach over 1,500 meters, favoring the presence of prized species such as blue marlin, bonito, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna.

Fishing excursions, led by professionals such as No Limit Fishing Guadeloupe or Caraïbes Fishing Club, allow you to explore fish-rich areas off the coast of Saint-François, Deshaies, or Basse-Terre. Trips suitable for all levels are available, from popping near the coast to deep-sea fishing.

Responsible fishing is essential to preserving the marine ecosystem. Certain species, such as giant grouper, are subject to strict quotas. It is recommended to practice catch and release, which involves releasing the catch after measuring and photographing it.

Water sports and outdoor adventures

The Guadeloupean coastline, swept by constant trade winds, offers ideal conditions for water sports. Surfing, particularly popular on the island, has its best spots at Anse Bertrand, Le Moule, and Saint-François, where Atlantic waves can reach over 2 meters. Beginners prefer the beaches of Port-Louis and Bananier, where schools offer lessons supervised by certified instructors.

Kitesurfing appeals to those who love speed and thrills, particularly on the Saint-François lagoon and Bois Jolan beach, where the shallow waters make it safe for beginners to learn. For a gentler approach, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking offer the opportunity to explore the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin mangrove, an ecosystem that is home to more than 250 species of birds.

Thrill seekers opt for canyoning, particularly on the Rivière Noire and the Trou à Diable waterfalls, where abseiling descents of over 20 meters punctuate the routes. These experiences allow you to discover the diversity of Guadeloupe's terrain while guaranteeing total immersion in nature.

Where can you go canyoning in Guadeloupe ?

Guadeloupe is an ideal destination for canyoning, with its steep rivers, majestic waterfalls, and natural pools. One of the most famous sites is Trou à Diable, located in Vieux-Habitants, which offers rappelling descents of up to 25 meters in a lush setting. This route, suitable for intermediate athletes, alternates between rappelling, jumping, and natural slides.

Les Ravines Chaudes, near Petit-Bourg, offers a more accessible experience, with gradual descents and clear water pools that are perfect for beginners. For thrill seekers, the Saut de Matouba, in the hills above Saint-Claude, offers a series of technical waterfalls that require good physical condition.

Supervised by professional guides such as those from Vert Intense or Guadeloupe Canyoning, this sport guarantees total immersion in tropical nature. It is essential to be properly equipped with a neoprene wetsuit, an approved helmet, and non-slip shoes. Before any outing, it is recommended to check the weather, as heavy rainfall can make rivers dangerous.

What are the options for a low-budget sports vacation ?

Traveling in Guadeloupe while enjoying sports activities does not require a large budget. There are several options that allow you to fully enjoy the natural riches of the archipelago without excessive spending. Hiking, for example, is completely free and offers exceptional views, particularly on the trails of Guadeloupe National Park, which has more than 300 km of trails accessible to all levels.

Beaches such as Grande Anse and La Caravelle are ideal for snorkeling at no cost, allowing you to observe a wide variety of marine life. For scuba diving, some clubs offer attractive deals, such as multi-dive packages that reduce the average cost of a dive to around €40.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, accessible in protected lagoons such as Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin, are often available for rent starting at €15 per hour. For surfing enthusiasts, schools such as Kokoplaj Surf School or Ti’ Kayak Surf offer group lessons starting at €30, a more economical option than private sessions. Booking in advance and comparing offers allows you to optimize your budget while enjoying an active vacation.