Visit southern Guadeloupe

Where is the south of Guadeloupe?

Location and access to southern Guadeloupe

The south of Guadeloupe includes the southern parts of Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. From Pointe-à-Pitre Airport, it is easy to access the main towns via a well-maintained road network. Distances between points of interest are relatively short, allowing for a varied exploration in a short time. Thanks to its developed road network, it’s easy to reach different towns from Pointe-à-Pitre, where the main airport is located. Count on about 15 minutes by car to reach Gosier or Baie-Mahault, and 45 minutes to an hour to get to Basse-Terre, Trois-Rivières, or Bouillante.

The southern municipalities are spread across the two main islands:

• On Grande-Terre: Baie-Mahault, Les Abymes, Pointe-à-Pitre, Gosier, Sainte-Anne, and Saint-François.
• On Basse-Terre: Baillif, Basse-Terre, Bouillante, Capesterre-Belle-Eau, Gourbeyre, Saint-Claude, Trois-Rivières, Vieux-Fort, and Vieux-Habitants.

Grande-Terre

Baie-Mahault: Between modernity and tradition Baie-Mahault is a major economic hub, home to the Jarry industrial zone and Guadeloupe's autonomous port. It is also a popular shopping destination with the Centre Commercial Destreland. The town combines modernity and heritage with historic sites such as the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, classified as a historical monument in 2017. Its surrounding mangroves, accessible by kayak, offer immersion in a preserved ecosystem.

Les Abymes: Where nature meets urban life Les Abymes, the most populated municipality in Guadeloupe, is an administrative and residential hub. It features the Parc Paysager de la Providence—a peaceful haven in the heart of the city—and historic landmarks such as the Petrelluzzi house and the Mamiel estate. The town is also bordered by mangroves, essential to the local ecosystem and perfect for biodiversity enthusiasts.

Pointe-à-Pitre: Cultural and historical capital Pointe-à-Pitre blends history with modernity. The city is home to landmarks such as the Mémorial ACTe, dedicated to the memory of the slave trade, and lively markets like the Darse market. With its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and museums like the Schœlcher Museum, it appeals to both history lovers and culture seekers.

Le Gosier: Beachside elegance and heritage A popular seaside resort, Le Gosier charms visitors with its sandy beaches and namesake islet, perfect for snorkeling and picnics. The Fort Fleur d’Épée, dating back to the 18th century, is a must-see for history buffs. Day and night, the town offers a lively atmosphere with restaurants, night markets, and a casino.

Sainte-Anne: A Caribbean postcard Sainte-Anne is famous for its idyllic beaches like La Caravelle, where white sand meets turquoise water. The craft market is the perfect spot to discover local flavors—from spices to tropical fruits. The town is also a hotspot for water sports and a top choice for families thanks to its welcoming vibe.

Saint-François: Luxury, nature, and culture With its lively marina, international golf course, and gourmet restaurants, Saint-François blends modern living with authentic charm. The Pointe des Châteaux, an iconic natural site, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Many boat excursions depart from here to explore nearby islands and the region’s exceptional marine life.

Basse-Terre

Basse-Terre: A historical capital As the administrative capital of Guadeloupe, Basse-Terre is overlooked by the Fort Delgrès, a symbol of the fight against slavery. Its spice market, Notre-Dame-de-Guadeloupe Cathedral, and bustling streets reflect the town’s history and vitality. The surrounding mountain views add to its charm.

Baillif: A peaceful town rich in history Baillif is known for historical remains such as the Tour du Père Labat, listed as a historical monument. Nestled between mountains and coastline, it offers a peaceful setting—ideal for those looking to explore authentic Guadeloupe. Coffee estates like Vanibel are a testament to the area’s agricultural traditions.

Bouillante: Diving and relaxation Famous for the Réserve Cousteau, Bouillante is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Its natural hot springs, created by geothermal activity, make it a perfect destination for relaxation. The town is also a starting point for unforgettable marine excursions.

Capesterre-Belle-Eau: Stunning waterfalls and agricultural heritage Capesterre-Belle-Eau is renowned for the majestic Carbet Falls, located in the Guadeloupe National Park. It’s also an agricultural hub, known for its banana plantations and rural traditions. Amerindian sites, such as the carved rocks, reveal the ancient history of the region.

Gourbeyre: Nature and wellness Between the mountains and the sea, Gourbeyre is a hiker’s paradise, especially for those heading toward La Soufrière volcano. The town is also known for its thermal baths—ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration. Its peaceful charm and natural surroundings set it apart.

Saint-Claude: Conquering La Soufrière Located at the foot of the Soufrière volcano, Saint-Claude is the highest town in Guadeloupe. Its lush landscapes and mild temperatures make it a favorite for hikers. The stunning views of the surrounding islands are a bonus for nature lovers.

Trois-Rivières: Amerindian heritage and gateway to Les Saintes Trois-Rivières is famous for the Archaeological Park of Carved Rocks, showcasing the island’s Amerindian heritage. Its port also serves as a departure point to the Saintes islands, offering an unforgettable getaway. With its rolling hills, the town is a haven for culture and nature enthusiasts.

Vieux-Fort: The charm of a small coastal town Overlooked by its iconic lighthouse, Vieux-Fort offers spectacular views of the Atlantic. This small town is ideal for a peaceful break away from the crowds. Its authenticity and raw beauty make it truly captivating.

Vieux-Habitants: Cradle of Guadeloupean coffee The oldest town in Guadeloupe, Vieux-Habitants is the historical heart of the island’s coffee culture. The Coffee Museum and local plantations offer an immersive look into this tradition. With its rivers and preserved landscapes, the town is perfect for a nature escape.

The history of the south of Guadeloupe

The south of Guadeloupe reflects the archipelago's tumultuous history, from the first Amerindian settlements to European colonization and the struggles for the abolition of slavery. Pointe-à-Pitre, founded in the 18th century, bears witness to this era with its colonial buildings and historic markets. Basse-Terre, the former administrative capital, is full of remnants like Fort Delgrès, a symbol of resistance to slavery. Towns such as Trois-Rivières also recall the early Amerindian populations, notably through petroglyphs that date back several centuries.

The ecosystem of the south of Guadeloupe

The southern region is a true haven of biodiversity. Basse-Terre is home to the Guadeloupe National Park, a dense tropical forest with waterfalls, including the famous Carbet Falls. Les Abymes and Le Gosier feature mangrove zones that are crucial to marine wildlife. Bouillante is the heart of geothermal activity in Guadeloupe and offers unique experiences such as natural hot springs or the spectacular underwater scenery of the Cousteau Reserve. However, rising temperatures and pollution threaten these ecosystems, making conservation efforts essential—especially to preserve coral reefs and mangroves, which are vital to the region’s ecological balance.

What not to miss in the south of Guadeloupe

The south of Guadeloupe is full of must-see cultural sites that reflect the island’s richness and diversity. In Baie-Mahault, shopping and food lovers will enjoy a stop at the Destreland Shopping Center. Le Gosier, with its islet accessible by boat, offers a unique experience blending snorkeling and family-friendly beach relaxation. In Pointe-à-Pitre, dive into history with a visit to the Memorial ACTe, a center dedicated to the memory of the slave trade. The colorful markets of Sainte-Anne and Saint-François are perfect for discovering spices, rum, and handcrafted souvenirs, while the white-sand beaches of Sainte-Anne and the stunning views from Pointe des Châteaux in Saint-François will captivate nature lovers.

On the Basse-Terre side, don’t miss Fort Delgrès, a symbol of historical resistance, and the local market for authentic products. In Trois-Rivières, the Archaeological Park of Les Roches Gravées highlights the island’s Amerindian heritage, while in Bouillante, the Saint-Joseph church built from volcanic stone showcases a rich architectural legacy. Each town offers a unique glimpse into Guadeloupe’s history and culture.

Top 5 must-see sites in the south of Guadeloupe

1. Carbet Falls (Capesterre-Belle-Eau): Three spectacular waterfalls nestled in the tropical forest.
2. Cousteau Reserve (Bouillante): A paradise for scuba diving with exceptional marine biodiversity.
3. Gosier Islet: Accessible by boat from Le Gosier, it’s a small island perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
4. Pointe des Châteaux (Saint-François): A rocky formation offering breathtaking views.
5. Soufrière volcano (Saint-Claude): A must-do hike to explore the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles.

Detailed itinerary to explore the south of Guadeloupe in three days

Here is a practical and optimized itinerary to explore the best of southern Guadeloupe. Each day includes travel times, suggested visit durations, and practical tips to help you plan.

Day 1: Pointe-à-Pitre, Le Gosier, and Sainte-Anne – Culture, beaches, and relaxation

Start your day in Pointe-à-Pitre with a visit to the Memorial ACTe, located 15 minutes (7 km) from the Pôle Caraïbes Airport. Plan for about 1.5 hours to explore this museum dedicated to the history of slavery. Then head to the Darse market, just a few minutes away, to browse spice stands, tropical fruits, and local crafts for around an hour. After lunch in Pointe-à-Pitre or 15 minutes (7 km) away in Le Gosier, head to Datcha Beach and take a shuttle to the Gosier Islet. Spend about 3 hours snorkeling or relaxing in crystal-clear waters. End your day in Sainte-Anne, 20 minutes (15 km) from Le Gosier, with a beachfront dinner enjoying local dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Basse-Terre, Bouillante, and Baillif – History, diving, and hot springs

From Sainte-Anne, drive 1h15 (60 km) to Basse-Terre to visit Fort Delgrès, a major historical site. Allocate 1.5 hours to explore its walls, exhibitions, and the magnificent sea view. Then head 30 minutes (20 km) to Bouillante for a Creole lunch. In the afternoon, dive into the Cousteau Reserve, just 15 minutes away, for about 3 hours of underwater exploration by scuba, snorkeling, or glass-bottom boat. End the day relaxing in Bouillante’s natural hot springs, heated by the area’s geothermal activity—perfect to unwind.

Day 3: Trois-Rivières, Capesterre-Belle-Eau, and Saint-Claude – Nature and adventure

Leave Bouillante for Trois-Rivières (45 minutes, 35 km). Visit the Archaeological Park of Les Roches Gravées for around 1.5 hours to see ancient petroglyphs left by the island’s first inhabitants. After a local lunch, you have two great options for the afternoon:

• Head to Carbet Falls in Capesterre-Belle-Eau (30 minutes, 25 km) and hike for 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the fall you choose.
• Or hike up Soufrière Volcano in Saint-Claude (45 minutes, 30 km). Prepare for a 4-hour round trip with breathtaking views from the summit.

Finish your trip with dinner in Basse-Terre or Capesterre-Belle-Eau, enjoying your final authentic tastes of the island.

Practical details

1. Travel times: Distances are short, but roads can be winding—build in buffer time.
2. Transportation: Renting a car is essential. Book in advance.
3. Accommodation: Stay near your day’s destinations:

• Day 1: Sainte-Anne or Le Gosier.
• Day 2: Bouillante or Basse-Terre.
• Day 3: Trois-Rivières or Capesterre-Belle-Eau.

1. Budget: Estimate €70–€100 per day for meals, activities, and lodging.
2. Guided activities: Some experiences (diving, hikes) require guides—book early.

Our practical tips for exploring the south of Guadeloupe

If you're planning a trip to the south of Guadeloupe, good preparation is key to making the most of this region’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. A car is absolutely essential: renting one gives you the flexibility to move between remote natural sites, picturesque villages, and pristine beaches. While public transportation exists, it’s not reliable for exploring the region efficiently. For accommodations, choose strategic locations based on your interests—Gosier or Sainte-Anne for beaches, Bouillante or Basse-Terre for the National Park and Cousteau Reserve, or Trois-Rivières for easy access to Carbet Falls. Make reservations ahead of time, especially between December and April—the best time to visit thanks to sunny, dry weather.

To avoid disappointment, book your activities in advance. Popular excursions like Gosier Islet, the Cousteau Reserve, and guided hikes up Soufrière or to Carbet Falls often fill up during high season. Budget about €70–€100 per person per day, covering lodging, meals at local restaurants, and activities. For a more budget-friendly trip, shop at local markets and cook your own meals.

Finally, prepare for a wide range of experiences. Bring hiking shoes for trails, light clothes and swimsuits for the beaches, and a rain jacket for tropical forest outings—showers are common. And most importantly, respect the environment. The ecosystems in southern Guadeloupe are fragile: don’t leave trash behind, avoid touching corals or marine animals, and use reef-safe products. Follow these tips for an unforgettable journey in the south of Guadeloupe.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit the south of Guadeloupe? From December to April, for sunny weather and outdoor activities.

How do I get around in the south of Guadeloupe? A rental car is essential to explore the diverse region. Buses are infrequent outside major towns.

What are the southern culinary specialties? Don’t miss colombo (Caribbean curry), accras (fried fish fritters), and desserts made with plantain or coconut, often found in local markets.