Visit Marie Galante

Where is Marie-Galante located ?

Location and access

Marie-Galante is located about 30 km south of mainland Guadeloupe. To get there, ferries depart daily from Pointe-à-Pitre or Saint-François. The crossing takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes depending on the departure port. Once on the island, renting a car or scooter is ideal for exploring freely, as public transportation is limited.

The history of Marie-Galante

The history of Marie-Galante is deeply connected to sugarcane cultivation and the colonial past of the Caribbean. Named by Christopher Columbus in 1493 after his ship “Maria Galanda,” the island was first inhabited by Amerindians before becoming a French colony in the 17th century. Its topography, ideal for growing sugarcane, turned Marie-Galante into a thriving sugar production center. This legacy is still visible today through the famous “hundred windmills,” many of which remain as ruins. These mills, once used to crush sugarcane, symbolize the island’s golden age and its economic importance in Guadeloupe’s history. The abolition of slavery in 1848 marked a turning point, reshaping the island’s economic and social dynamics, which have since helped preserve its authentic charm.

The ecosystem of Marie-Galante

Marie-Galante is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, characterized by savannah landscapes, paradise beaches, and limestone cliffs. Marine wildlife is especially remarkable around the coral reefs that surround the island, sheltering tropical fish, sea turtles, and crustaceans. The vegetation, adapted to the island’s dry climate, includes sugarcane fields, mangroves, and dry forests. Natural sites such as Gueule Grand Gouffre and the northern mangroves showcase Marie-Galante’s ecological richness. However, this unique environment is fragile and requires special attention due to environmental challenges, particularly those related to climate change and human activity.

Discovering the island : nature and heritage

A land of history and traditions

Marie-Galante is known for its windmill ruins, which reflect its sugarcane-driven past. The island also preserves emblematic historical sites like the Château Murat, a former sugar plantation turned museum that explores the history of slavery and sugar production.

Beaches and paradise lagoons

• Anse Canot: A true slice of paradise, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• La Feuillère Beach: Known for its white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for kitesurfing.
• Vieux-Fort: A picturesque beach offering a peaceful and relaxing setting.

The charm of the villages

Grand-Bourg, Capesterre, and Saint-Louis—the island’s three main towns—charm visitors with their authentic atmosphere and local markets, where you can discover traditional products like Marie-Galante’s famous agricultural rum.

Tourist influx during the Terre de Blues festival

The most anticipated event of the year on Marie-Galante is without a doubt the Terre de Blues Festival, held annually over the Pentecost weekend. This international music festival draws thousands of visitors from across the Caribbean and beyond, transforming the island into a cultural melting pot. For several days, stages set up in iconic locations such as Habitation Murat host renowned artists across a range of genres, from blues and jazz to reggae. This tourist influx stimulates the local economy—especially accommodations, restaurants, and artisans—while showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage. It’s the perfect time to experience Marie-Galante from a festive and vibrant perspective.

Activities and points of interest

Visiting the distilleries

Marie-Galante is world-renowned for its agricultural rum. Must-visit distilleries include:

• Bellevue Distillery: A deep dive into rum production, complete with tastings.
• Poisson Distillery: Home of Père Labat rum, known for its traditional craftsmanship.
• Habitation Murat: A former plantation offering insight into the history of sugarcane.

Hiking and natural discoveries

• Gueule Grand Gouffre: A dramatic geological formation where limestone cliffs plunge into the ocean.
• Les Grands Fonds: A lush, hilly landscape ideal for walking or biking.

Events and festivals

Marie-Galante is alive with cultural events, including the “Fête des Cuisinières” in August and the Terre de Blues Festival, which welcomes artists and visitors from around the globe each year.

Practical tips for your visit

The best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny—ideal for outdoor activities. Bring light clothing, comfortable shoes for sightseeing, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. For a truly authentic culinary experience, don’t miss local specialties like Creole blood sausage, salt cod fritters (acras), and smoked chicken. These dishes can be enjoyed in restaurants or at local markets, offering a delicious window into the region’s gastronomy.

FAQ about Marie-Galante

How do I get to Marie-Galante? Ferries run daily from Pointe-à-Pitre and Saint-François, with crossings lasting between 45 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes.

How long should I stay on the island? Plan for at least two days to visit the main attractions, but a stay of three to four days lets you better soak up the island’s atmosphere and explore more sites.

Are there accommodations available? Yes, the island offers a wide range of accommodations, from charming hotels to local guesthouses.

Can I visit Marie-Galante without a car? While it’s possible, renting a car or scooter is recommended to fully enjoy the island, as public transportation is limited.

What are the island’s culinary specialties? Creole blood sausage, goat colombo, accras (cod fritters), and agricultural rum are must-tries during your visit.

Is the island accessible for people with disabilities? Some tourist sites, like distilleries and museums, are accessible for people with reduced mobility. However, due to the island’s rural and preserved nature, it’s advisable to check accessibility conditions in advance for specific locations.