Guadeloupe in 10 days
With its idyllic beaches, tropical forests, volcanoes, and charming Creole villages, Guadeloupe is an ideal destination for a vacation rich in discoveries. If you have ten days, this itinerary will allow you to explore the must-see sites while taking the time to savor the authenticity of the archipelago. Combining adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, this trip promises to be unforgettable.
Guadeloupe in 10 days : a balanced trip between adventure and relaxation
With 10 days in Guadeloupe, you can explore the highlights while taking the time to enjoy each stop. Here’s a detailed itinerary with durations and distances to maximize your experience.
Day 1 : Pointe‑à‑Pitre and your first cultural immersion
After your arrival at the airport, reach Pointe‑à‑Pitre in 15 minutes (8 km) to visit the Mémorial ACTe, an engaging museum recounting the history of slavery. Then wander the Darse and Saint‑Antoine markets for a first taste of local life. End the day at your hotel in Sainte‑Anne, about a 30‑minute drive (20 km), where you can relax and enjoy a beachfront dinner.
Day 2 : Relaxation in Sainte‑Anne
Dedicate this day to unwinding. Head to Plage de la Caravelle, just 5 minutes from the town center. Its shallow waters and white sand make it perfect for a leisurely swim. Enjoy a local lunch, then browse the artisan market later in the day. This calm start will set a peaceful tone for your stay.
Day 3 : Saint‑François and Petite‑Terre excursion
From Sainte‑Anne, travel to Saint‑François in 20 minutes (15 km). Take the boat to Petite‑Terre (45 minutes across), a protected reserve ideal for snorkeling and turtle watching. Spend the day on this paradisiacal island, then return to Saint‑François for gourmet dining at the marina.
Day 4 : Point of castles and relaxation
Start gently with a morning outing to point of castles, a scenic 15‑minute (10 km) drive from Saint‑François. Enjoy the panoramic view after a short walk. In the afternoon, relax at Raisins Clairs beach — perfect for a swim. Return to Sainte‑Anne for a calm evening.
Day 5 : Chutes du Carbet and a peaceful afternoon
Drive from Sainte‑Anne to Capesterre‑Belle‑Eau (1h15, 60 km). Hike to the Chutes du Carbet, one of Guadeloupe’s most impressive waterfalls. After the morning adventure, head to Bouillante (40 km, ~1 h), where you can spend a tranquil afternoon at your hotel or enjoy a relaxing soak in the Thomas hot springs.
Day 6 : Marine exploration and free time
From your Bouillante base, reach the Cousteau Reserve in 15 minutes. Dive or snorkel pristine coral reefs. In the afternoon, enjoy free time at Malendure beach, lounging while soaking up the local vibe. End the day with dinner overlooking the sea.
Day 7 : Ascent of La Soufrière and relaxation
Depart early for Saint‑Claude — 40 km, about one hour from Bouillante. Start the iconic Soufrière volcano hike, a roughly 4‑hour round trip that offers unforgettable views. After this unique experience, unwind in the Dolé thermal baths, just 20 minutes by car (10 km) away. Then return to Bouillante for a peaceful evening.
Day 8 : Saintes day trip
From Trois‑Rivières (1h15, 65 km from Bouillante), board a 30‑minute ferry to Terre‑de‑Haut. Visit Fort Napoléon, about 10 minutes away by electric cart, then spend the afternoon at Pompierre beach, great for swimming and snorkeling. Return to Grande‑Terre later and stay overnight in Saint‑François.
Day 9 : Leisure day in La Désirade
Take an early ferry from Saint‑François to La Désirade (45 minutes). Enjoy peace and nature, exploring wild beaches like Baie‑Mahault or walking the coastal trails. Have an open‑air lunch before heading back to Saint‑François in the afternoon.
Day 10 : Shopping and final moments
Spend your last day browsing the markets in Pointe‑à‑Pitre — just 30 minutes (20 km) from Saint‑François. Shop for souvenirs like rum, spices, or handmade crafts. Enjoy a seaside lunch in Gosier with views of the ocean — only 20 minutes from the airport — before heading to your flight back home.
Practical tips for a great stay
- Transport : Rent a car to explore the archipelago at your own pace.
- Accommodation : Alternate between Grande‑Terre and Basse‑Terre to minimize travel time.
- Best time to visit : December to April — the dry season.
Faq : preparing your 10‑day stay in Guadeloupe
Is it possible to explore the entire archipelago in 10 days ? Yes, this itinerary covers the main sites, though some areas could benefit from more time if you have it.
What budget should I plan for 10 days ? Expect around €100–150 per day for accommodation, meals, and activities.
Should ferries and accommodations be booked in advance ? Yes, especially in the high season, to ensure availability.
Are the activities suitable for families ? Guadeloupe offers many family-friendly options like beaches, botanical gardens, and easily accessible walks.
Which culinary specialties should be tried ? Don’t miss colombo, accras, Creole blood sausage, and coconut- or banana-based desserts.