Things to do in Guadeloupe

Trek through lush rainforest and sulfurous vents to the top of this active volcano, where you can peer into the steaming crater and take in sweeping views over Basse-Terre.

Walk well-maintained trails through tropical forest to witness a series of towering waterfalls, with the second fall plunging 110 metres into a deep pool.

A long palm-fringed crescent of soft sand with calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching fishermen bring in the day's catch.

Float above coral gardens teeming with colourful fish and sea turtles in this protected marine area, made famous by Jacques Cousteau.

A powerful, modern museum on slavery and the slave trade, housed in a striking black building on the Pointe-à-Pitre waterfront, with interactive exhibits and a memorial garden.

The lively covered fish market in Pointe-à-Pitre buzzes at dawn as vendors sell glistening tuna, snapper, and Creole spices in a vibrant, aromatic setting.

Watch sugar cane crushed by a restored waterwheel and sample aged rums at a traditional distillery set amid banana plantations and landscaped gardens.

Stroll through seven hectares of tropical plants, flamingo ponds, and a cascading waterfall, with scenic views over the Caribbean Sea.

Discover a tiny island village of pastel cottages, bougainvillea, and scooters, with a relaxed French-Caribbean charm unlike anywhere else.

This 19th-century fort houses a museum on the island's history and a cactus garden, with panoramic views over the bay and neighbouring islets.

A postcard-perfect beach near Club Med with powdery white sand and sheltered shallows, ideal for families and a long afternoon of floating.

A wind-whipped peninsula where crashing Atlantic waves meet the Caribbean, topped by a monumental cross and extensive views over La Désirade.

Follow the cacao journey from tree to bar in a charming plantation setting, with tastings of ganache, cocoa nibs, and locally made chocolates.

A protected nature reserve of two small islets where you can snorkel with rays and lemon sharks, and encounter wild iguanas on white sand beaches.

A small but fascinating museum displaying Arawak and Carib artifacts, including pottery, tools, and petroglyphs, in a park near the sea.

Sit on dark volcanic sand as the sun sinks behind the Pigeon Islands, painting the sky orange and pink while kayakers glide across calm water.

Crispy deep-fried bread stuffed with salted cod, chicken, or conch, served at the covered market in Pointe-à-Pitre for an authentic street food experience.

A well-marked rainforest trail winding under giant tree ferns and mahogany, crossing streams and offering cool shade on the slopes of the volcano.

A Gothic-style church in Pointe-à-Pitre whose metal framework was built in the workshops of Gustave Eiffel, featuring intricate stained glass and a tranquil interior.

Cycle or drive to an artisanal distillery where rum is still produced using a traditional Creole column still, and enjoy a tasting under the mango trees.

A short hike leads to a hidden cascade of cool, clear water pooled in a natural stone basin, surrounded by giant ferns and heliconia flowers.

Dedicated to the abolitionist Victor Schœlcher, this museum displays period furniture, documents, and local art that tell the story of emancipation and Creole identity.

Trotting through the surf at sunset on a local ranch's horse, feeling the sea spray and warm trade winds is an unforgettable way to experience Saint-François.

After dark, the seaside resort of Le Gosier comes alive with open-air bars and clubs where you can move to local rhythms until dawn.

An interpretation centre and trail that immerses you in the biodiversity of the Guadeloupe National Park, with labelled trees, bird calls, and a canopy walkway.