Hiking

…er routes leading to the summit of La Soufrière, located at 1,467 m, the highest point in the Lesser Antilles.

Waterfalls, cascades, and refreshing walks

The Carbet Falls, particularly the second waterfall, are among the most visited in the archipelago. Access to the second waterfall, which is over 110 m high, is via a 2 km round trip trail. The trail, which is marked and can often be completed in 1.5 hours, offers views of lush, humid vegetation. Informative signs explain the tropical forest ecosystem, endemic species, and the geological formation of the area. Upon arrival, the view of the waterfall is impressive, especially during the wetter season when the flow is high.

The Sentier de la Cascade aux Écrevisses (Crayfish Waterfall Trail), accessible along the Route de la Traversée (RD23), offers a very short walk of around 250 m, often completed in 5 to 10 minutes. Ideal for families, the waterfall, several meters high, forms a pool where you can cool off. The proximity of the road, the parking lot, and the slight incline (almost nonexistent) make this site very popular.

Ponds, lakes, and wetlands

The Grand Étang de Capesterre, located at an altitude of approximately 700 m, is a volcanic lake nestled in the heart of the forest. The trail forms a loop of approximately 2.5 km, with no excessive elevation gain, and typically takes 1.5 hours to complete. Along the way, you can discover hydrophilic plants, ferns, gum trees, and discreet wildlife (birds, insects). This is a less-traveled route, offering peace and quiet and total immersion in nature.

Forest hikes on Basse-Terre

The Piton Baille-Argent via Belle Hôtesse trail, in the northwest of Basse-Terre, leads to a summit over 600 m high. The trail, approximately 3 km long, passes through secondary vegetation, with a few viewpoints overlooking the coast, the Dominica Channel, and the surrounding mountains. This lesser-known route is ideal for hikers looking for a more peaceful forest trail.

The Sofaïa Trail in Sainte-Rose is approximately 2.5 km long and passes through a humid forest area. Hikers will discover sulfur springs (known for their dermatological properties), giant ferns, and a rich variety of birdlife (hummingbirds, sugarbirds, white-crowned pigeons). The trail can be completed in 1 to 1.5 hours, with a moderate elevation gain.

The Grande Rivière Goyaves Trail, not far from Petit-Bourg, follows a clear river. For about 4 km, hikers walk among towering trees, mosses, and trunks covered with epiphytes. Small bridges and fords punctuate the route. This trail offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a preserved environment, with the occasional chance to spot freshwater crabs.

Coastal walks and coastal views

Pointe des Châteaux, at the eastern tip of Grande-Terre, offers a short trail of about 1 km to the cross at the top of the promontory. In less than 30 minutes, you reach a viewpoint offering a 180° view of the Atlantic Ocean, the neighboring islands (La Désirade, Petite-Terre), and the white sand beaches. The trade winds, blowing at an average speed of 15 to 25 km/h, make for a refreshing walk. The xerophytic vegetation (cacti, agaves) contrasts with the humid forest of Basse-Terre.

The Deshaies Coastal Trail, approximately 3 to 8 km long depending on the section chosen, follows the coastline northwest of Basse-Terre. It alternates between small beaches, rocky coves, coconut trees, and views of the Caribbean Sea. Walkers can observe brown pelicans, frigatebirds, and sometimes sea turtles feeding near the coastal seagrass beds. This fairly accessible trail takes between 1 and 3 hours to complete, depending on the distance covered.

Longer trails and historic routes

Some longer trails allow for a more in-depth exploration of the island. The Trace des Alizés, renowned for its length (over 80 km) and elevation changes, is intended for experienced hikers and is often completed in several stages. It passes through forest sections and ridges, offering panoramic views of the sea, and provides an opportunity to encounter unique endemic trees. Weather conditions should be checked, and appropriate equipment (waterproof shoes, breathable clothing, at least 2 liters of water per person) is essential.

The lesser-known Trace des Falaises follows a line of ridges or coastal cliffs and offers a route of approximately 12 km (combining the Douaniers and Souffleur trails). It features more rugged terrain, requiring caution, especially in wet weather. In return, it offers unique views of rock formations, crashing waves, and sometimes colonies of seabirds nesting in crevices.

The Smugglers' Trail, short but steep, recalls the days when certain goods were smuggled between the coves. Covering approximately 6 km, this trail passes through mixed vegetation, alternating between dry woods and wetter areas, and occasionally features ancient ruins or remains. The ground, which is often slippery after rain, requires shoes with good grip.

Other trails and diversity of environments

The Grande Pointe Trail and the Quiock River Trail showcase the extreme variety of trails in Guadeloupe. The first, located in a coastal or forest area (depending on its exact location), allows visitors to combine coastal views with immersion in secondary vegetation. The second, which runs along a river, offers a different landscape, dotted with pools, pebbles, and flora specific to wetlands. These trails, often 2 to 4 km long, take about 1 to 2 hours to complete and appeal to hikers looking for less-traveled routes.

Conditions, equipment, and regulations

• It is advisable to hike during the drier season (December to May) to enjoy less muddy trails and better visibility.
• Frequent rainfall throughout the rest of the year makes the trails slippery and even impassable. Before setting out, it is wise to check the weather forecast, as unexpected showers can occur.
• Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour of walking per person, energy snacks, mosquito repellent, a hat, and possibly a walking stick.
• Most trails are marked by the ONF (Office National des Forêts) or the National Park. Signs sometimes indicate the average duration, elevation gain, and difficulty.
• Some trails, such as those leading to peaks or waterfalls, have steps, bridges, and ramps to facilitate access. Others, which are more rugged, require better physical condition and a sense of direction.
• It is forbidden to pick protected plants, leave litter, or stray from the paths, in order to preserve fragile ecosystems.