Deshaies Botanical Garden
Do you dream of a place where lush nature and history meet? The Jardin Botanique de Deshaies in Guadeloupe is that magical place, a veritable paradise for lovers of plants and biodiversity. Located on a property once owned by Coluche, this 7-hectare garden is brimming with over 1,000 plant species, each as fascinating as the next. Whether you're a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience in the heart of nature, you'll find something here to satisfy your curiosity.
In this article, you'll discover the particularities of this emblematic place, the activities not to be missed, as well as practical advice to prepare your visit. You'll learn why the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies is a Guadeloupe must-see, and how it can offer you total immersion in the island's natural beauty. So, are you ready to explore this exceptional green setting? Your adventure begins here.
A unique tropical immersion in Guadeloupe
What if you could travel to the heart of a plant paradise without leaving Guadeloupe ? The Deshaies Botanical Garden spans 7 hectares of lush nature, nestled in the former property of Coluche, offering a true living tableau of tropical biodiversity. Imagine wandering among vibrant orchids, majestic royal palms, and a surprising century-old kapok tree.
Why not start your visit with the aviary of colorful lorikeets? These adorable parrots only ask for a little nectar to perch on your hand. A souvenir photo? Absolutely! And that’s just the beginning: between the vegetated water wall and the 10-meter waterfall, every step in this garden is an invitation to wonder. So, ready to awaken the explorer within you? Paradise is within reach, and it’s called Deshaies!
The flora : a collection of over 1,000 tropical plants
When you enter the Deshaies Botanical Garden, you discover a true sanctuary of tropical flora, home to more than 1,000 plant species from all over the world. Each section of the garden seems to tell a story. Delicate orchids, climbing gracefully on trees, showcase the beauty and diversity of epiphytic plants. Nearby, flamboyant hibiscus and bright bougainvillea light up the landscape with their vivid colors.
The Talipot palm, unique in Guadeloupe, is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating curiosities. Native to Sri Lanka, it flowers only once in its lifetime, between 80 and 100 years, before dying, leaving behind a spectacular bloom. What about the “mother-in-law’s cushion,” a round cactus from Mexico, amusing with its name and intriguing by its shape?
As you walk along shaded paths, take time to observe the tree ferns, true giants of tropical vegetation, surrounded by epiphytic plants like bromeliads. This garden is much more than an exhibition site; it’s an ode to nature, a place where every corner invites wonder.
Must-do activities and experiences
At the Deshaies Botanical Garden, every moment is an invitation to amazement and discovery. Upon arrival, you’ll be captivated by the chance to feed the lorikeets, those small colorful parrots that confidently land on your hand. A unique experience, perfect for capturing a moment of pure connection with local wildlife.
The visit then leads you to the 10-meter-high waterfall, whose soothing sound accompanies your stroll. You will be amazed by the view from the panoramic restaurant overlooking this natural spectacle, all while enjoying local products.
For relaxation lovers, a walk along the lily pond lets you observe koi carp swimming peacefully, while flamingos add an exotic touch to the atmosphere. This garden is not just a place to pass through but a true sensory refuge, where every corner reveals a living picture of tropical nature.
Practical information for visiting
The Deshaies Botanical Garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, allowing you to choose the best time to explore this natural wonder. Admission is paid, with an adult rate of €15.90 and a reduced rate of €10.90 for children aged 5 to 12. Children under 5 enter for free. It is recommended to allow about 1.5 hours to complete the route, but feel free to take more time to enjoy every detail of the garden.
If you are traveling by car, the garden is about a 1-hour drive from Pointe-à-Pitre airport. Parking is available on site, but it is advisable to arrive early to avoid tourist crowds later in the day. On site, you’ll find a panoramic restaurant offering stunning views of the waterfall and the Caribbean Sea. You can also opt for a local snack, ideal for a quick break between discoveries.
Finally, to extend the experience, why not consider spending the night in one of the villas or bungalows available within the garden itself? A unique setting, perfect for total immersion in nature.
Where did Coluche live in Guadeloupe ?
Coluche, the beloved comedian, purchased a property in Deshaies in 1979, on the island of Basse-Terre, in the heart of Guadeloupe. This house, set in an exceptional natural environment, was one of his residences during his stays on the island. The property, covering 7 hectares, was then home to wild vegetation, which he gradually transformed into a garden, a true tropical oasis.
After Coluche’s death, his friend Michel Gaillard, a landscaper and nurseryman, took over the garden and decided to make it a public place. This is how the Deshaies Botanical Garden was born. Although Coluche’s house was rebuilt, it remains a symbolic element of the garden and a point of interest throughout the visit. Today, this garden is a place of remembrance for the artist, who, through his purchase, allowed nature to flourish while helping to make Deshaies a must-visit site in Guadeloupe.
When to visit the botanical garden ?
The Deshaies Botanical Garden is open every day of the year, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, offering flexible visiting hours. However, to fully enjoy the experience and avoid the heat, it is recommended to go early at 9 AM or late in the afternoon, from 4 PM onward. At these times, the temperature is more comfortable, and the atmosphere is more pleasant for a walk.
It is worth noting that the ideal period to visit the garden is between November and April, during the dry season, when the vegetation is particularly lush and temperatures milder. However, even during the low season, the garden remains an exceptional place, offering a palette of colors and textures year-round.
If you enjoy photography, the morning provides soft light ideal for capturing the beauty of the landscapes and plants, while in the afternoon, the garden benefits from the refreshing shade of its many trees. Whatever the time of year, the Deshaies Botanical Garden remains a must-see place, a true haven of peace to visit without moderation.