GUADELOUPE

Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean archipelago, blends vibrant Creole culture with stunning natural beauty. From volcanic peaks and lush rainforests to pristine beaches and clear waters, its rich history as a former French colony has shaped its unique identity.

Region: Caribbean (Overseas Department of France)

Capital: Basse-Terre

Official Language: French. Guadeloupean Creole is also widely spoken.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise normal safety precautions. While generally safe, be aware of petty crime, especially in crowded areas.

A map of the Caribbean with the island of Martinique highlighted in red.

Why Visit Guadeloupe?

Natural Wonders: Explore the lush Guadeloupe National Park, home to the majestic La Soufrière volcano and stunning waterfalls.

Pristine Beaches: Discover diverse coastlines, from the golden sands of Grande-Terre to the unique black sands of Basse-Terre.

Vibrant Culture: Immerse yourself in Creole traditions, music, dance, and the lively atmosphere of local markets.

A beautiful waterfall cascading into a clear pool in a lush, green jungle.

Exquisite Cuisine: Savor a fusion of French and Caribbean flavors, from fresh seafood to flavorful curries and local rum.

Island Hopping: Easily explore the archipelago’s smaller islands like Les Saintes and Marie-Galante, each offering unique charm.

Water Activities: Enjoy world-class snorkeling, diving at the Jacques Cousteau Reserve, sailing, and other watersports.

A small plane parked on a grassy airfield under a bright, cloudy sky.

Essential Trip Information

Guadeloupe is part of France and the Schengen Area, although Schengen rules may not apply uniformly in overseas territories.

No visa needed for stays up to 90 days for citizens of the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and New Zealand.

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure. Six months is advised.

Entry may require proof of return flight and sufficient funds (approx. €65/day).

Verify visa requirements via the French government’s immigration site: https://france-visas.gouv.fr

Guadeloupe uses the Euro (€), but here’s the equivalent guidance for US$ travelers.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; airport kiosks are pricey.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in towns and cities (BNP Paribas, Société Générale). Most businesses accept Visa and Mastercard, but carry US$20–50 worth of euros in cash.

  • What to Avoid: Avoid small exchange offices and dynamic currency conversion (always choose local currency).

French is official; Guadeloupean Creole is widely spoken. English is limited outside tourist hubs.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Bonjour” (Hello)

  • “Merci” (Thank you)

  • “Où est…?” (Where is…?)

Generally safe, especially in tourist areas.

Petty theft occurs on crowded beaches or markets—keep an eye on your belongings.

Avoid walking alone in deserted areas after dark.

Emergency number: 112 (EU-wide) or 17 (police).

No special vaccinations are required.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue) occur—use repellents and wear long sleeves in forested areas.

Tap water is safe to drink in most areas.

Pharmacies (“Pharmacie”) are well-stocked and signposted with green crosses.

Car rental: The best option for exploring; available at airports. Roads are decent but winding.

Taxis: Not metered—agree on price in advance.

Buses: Infrequent and unreliable for tourists.

Ferries: Connect to Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and La Désirade.

Guadeloupe is moderately priced compared to other French territories.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses / Gîtes: US$60–100/night

  • Mid-range: 2–3 star hotels or beachside rentals: US$120–200/night

  • Luxury: Resorts / boutique hotels: US$250+/night

Food

  • Street food/markets: Bokit sandwiches or grilled fish: US$6–12

  • Casual dining: Creole restaurants: US$15–25/person

  • Fine dining: French-Caribbean fusion: US$50+/person

Drinks

  • Local beer (e.g., Corsaire): US$2–4

  • Cocktails (rhum punch, ti’punch): US$6–10

  • Bottle of rhum agricole (for souvenirs): US$10–30

Transportation

  • Car rental: US$35–70/day

  • Taxis (short trips): US$15–25

  • Ferries: US$25–50 round-trip depending on island

Money-Saving Tips

  • Shop at local markets for fresh produce and meals

  • Stay in gîtes or Airbnb rentals with kitchens

  • Enjoy free beaches and hikes (La Soufrière, Chutes du Carbet)

  • Eat lunch out (cheaper menus), cook dinner in

Explore Guadeloupe

The western “wing” of Guadeloupe, dominated by the mountainous Guadeloupe National Park and the active La Soufrière volcano. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers.

The eastern “wing” of Guadeloupe, characterized by drier, flatter landscapes, stunning white-sand beaches, and lively towns.

The largest city and economic hub, located on Grande-Terre. Explore its bustling markets, colonial architecture, and the Memorial ACTe museum, dedicated to the history of slavery.

Located on Basse-Terre, this protected rainforest is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering stunning waterfalls (like Carbet Falls), hiking trails, and the impressive La Soufrière volcano.

The highest peak in the Lesser Antilles, located within the National Park on Basse-Terre. A challenging but rewarding hike offers panoramic views (weather permitting).

A picturesque group of islands south of Basse-Terre, renowned for their stunning bay (often called one of the most beautiful in the world), charming villages, and Fort Napoléon. Accessible by ferry from Trois-Rivières or Pointe-à-Pitre.

Known as “the Big Galette” due to its round, flat shape, this island southeast of Grande-Terre offers a glimpse into traditional Caribbean life with its sugar cane fields and historic rum distilleries. Accessible by ferry from Pointe-à-Pitre.

Off the coast of Bouillante on Basse-Terre, this marine reserve is a world-renowned spot for snorkeling and diving, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

A dramatic, rugged peninsula on the eastern tip of Grande-Terre, offering breathtaking coastal scenery, impressive rock formations, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands.

Popular resort towns on Grande-Terre, known for their beautiful white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant local markets. Ideal for relaxing and watersports.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Tourists

  • Lush Greenery Due to Rainfall

  • Quiet Beaches

Main Drawbacks:

  • Hot and Humid Weather

  • Higher Chance of Rain and Hurricanes (Aug-Oct)

  • Some Outdoor Activities Limited by Weather

Key Regions:

  • Basse-Terre: Explore rainforests and waterfalls in lush surroundings.

  • Grande-Terre: Enjoy quieter beaches and local markets.

  • Les Saintes: Peaceful island vibes away from the crowds.

Key Advantages:

  • Pleasant, Warm Temperatures

  • Manageable Tourist Levels

  • Lower Humidity Compared to Summer

  • Clear Waters for Snorkeling and Diving

  • Festival Season Starts in December

Main Drawbacks:

  • Some Rain Showers Possible

  • Popular Events Can Attract Local Crowds

Key Regions:

  • Pointe-à-Pitre: Good base for cultural events and shopping.

  • Marie-Galante: Ideal for tranquil beaches and rum distillery visits.

  • La Désirade: Great for hiking and untouched nature.

  • Mid-Winter and Holiday Periods (December – April)

  • Carnival Season (February – March)

  • Spring Break (March – April)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Guadeloupe is an overseas department of France. While discussions about local politics are common, be mindful and avoid overly strong opinions, especially concerning its relationship with mainland France.

Tipping: A service charge of 10-15% is often included in restaurant and hotel bills. If it’s not, a 10% tip is appreciated for good service. For hotel staff, US$1-2 per bag is appropriate for porters.

Dress Code: Dress in Guadeloupe is generally informal and casual, favoring light fabrics like cotton due to the tropical climate. Swimwear is for the beach; do not wear it in towns or restaurants. For evenings, women might dress up slightly, but formal attire like ties and jackets for men is rarely seen.

Museum Behavior: Maintain quiet voices and respect the exhibits in museums and historical sites.

Free Attractions: Many natural attractions like beaches, some waterfalls (e.g., Cascade aux Ecrevisses), and hiking trails (e.g., La Soufrière volcano trails) are free to access.

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouses/Hostels: US$30–70
  • Mid-range hotels/apartments: US$120–250
  • Luxury resorts/villas: US$300+

Food:

  • Local food stalls (bokits, accras): US$5–10
  • Casual restaurant meal (lunch specials): US$15–25
  • Fine dining: US18-30)

Transport:

  • Local buses: US$2-5 per ride (can be slow)
  • Car rental: US$40–80+ per day (highly recommended for exploring)
  • Inter-island ferries: US$30–70+ depending on destination

Activities:

  • Many free (beaches, some hiking trails); paid tours/excursions: US$25–100+ (e.g., boat tours, diving, botanical gardens)

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$80–120 (guesthouses, local food, public transport/limited car rental)
  • Mid-range: US$180–300 (mid-range hotels, sit-down meals, car rental, some tours)
  • Luxury: US$400+ (resort stays, fine dining, private tours)

Free Wi-Fi: Available at most hotels, airports, and some beach cafés.

SIM Cards: Digicel or Orange stores offer prepaid SIMs (~US$15–25 for 10GB). Bring passport for registration.

eSIMs: Available from providers like Airalo; coverage varies by island.

Recommended for: Comprehensive medical coverage (including emergency evacuation), trip delays, and cancellations. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June to November.

Healthcare: While Guadeloupe has a good healthcare system (being French), ensure your travel insurance covers any medical emergencies, as costs can be high for non-residents.

Adventure Activities: If planning activities like diving, hiking, or watersports, confirm your policy covers these specific activities, as some standard policies may exclude them.

Guadeloupe offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming guesthouses.

Luxury:

  • Beachfront Resorts: La Toubana Hotel & Spa (Sainte-Anne), generally offering stunning sea views, pools, and spa services.
  • Boutique Villas: High-end private villas with amenities and personalized service can be found across the islands.

Mid-range:

  • Boutique Hotels: Hotels like Tropical Lodges in Le Gosier or Baz créole in Deshaies offer comfortable stays with good amenities and local charm.
  • Apart-hotels/Residences: Often provide self-catering options with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays or families.

Budget:

  • Guesthouses (Gîtes): Expect to pay around US$30-70/night, common in areas like Terre-de-Haut (Les Saintes) or Sainte-Rose. Many are family-run and offer a local experience.
  • Hostels: Fewer dedicated hostels, but some guesthouses offer dormitory-style or budget-friendly private rooms.

Unique Stays:

  • Eco-lodges: Found nestled in the rainforest or along secluded coastlines, offering a more immersive nature experience.
  • Treehouses/Bungalows: Some properties offer charming, rustic bungalows or treehouse-style accommodations.

Tip: Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season (December-May), and for popular events like Carnival.

Guadeloupe’s transportation caters to different preferences, but renting a car is often the most recommended way to explore.

Car Rental:

  • Highly recommended for exploring the diverse landscapes of Basse-Terre (mountainous roads) and Grande-Terre (coastal drives and beaches).
  • Major international and local rental companies are available, including at the airport.
  • You need a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended for stays over 20 days) and usually a credit card.
  • Note: Roads are generally in good condition, but some mountain roads can be winding. Manual transmissions are common. Driving is on the right.

Buses:

  • Guadeloupe has a local bus network, primarily centered around Pointe-à-Pitre.
  • They are the most affordable option but can be slow, less frequent, and routes may not cover all tourist attractions. Look for blue bus stop signs.

Taxis:

  • Available in main towns and at the airport. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as fares are significantly higher between 9 PM and 7 AM, and on Sundays/holidays.

Ferries:

  • Essential for inter-island travel to dependencies like Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and La Désirade.
  • Companies like L’Express des Iles and Val Ferry operate services from Pointe-à-Pitre and Trois-Rivières.
  • Also connects Guadeloupe to neighboring islands like Martinique, Dominica, and St. Lucia.

Domestic Flights:

  • While less common for intra-Guadeloupe travel due to the ferry network, small domestic airports exist on islands like La Désirade and Marie-Galante, served by regional airlines like Air Caraïbes and LIAT.

Handy Tips

Guadeloupe uses the Euro (€), as it’s an overseas region of France. Bills come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 denominations; coins include 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, plus €1 and €2 coins.

Exchanging Currency: Avoid currency exchange at the airport—use ATMs for better rates, especially from French or international banks like BNP Paribas or Société Générale.

Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but smaller vendors and local markets may prefer cash.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping isn’t mandatory (a service charge is usually included), but small tips are appreciated.

  • Restaurants/Bars: Not required, but rounding up or adding 5–10% is kind.
  • Taxis: Not required, but rounding up is common.
  • Hotel Staff: €1–2 per bag for porters; €1–3 per day for housekeeping.
  • Tour Guides: €5–10 per person for group tours.

The official language is French, but Guadeloupean Creole is commonly spoken in casual settings. English is limited outside tourist areas.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Bonjour, parlez-vous anglais ?” (Hello, do you speak English?)

  • “Combien ça coûte ?” (How much is it?)

  • “Où est la plage la plus proche ?” (Where’s the nearest beach?)

  • “Puis-je avoir une carafe d’eau ?” (Can I get a jug of water?)

Pro Tip: A smile and a polite “Bonjour” before asking anything goes a long way—manners matter in French Caribbean culture.

Guadeloupe is relatively safe, but use common sense, especially at night or on secluded beaches.

  • Stay alert in Pointe-à-Pitre, particularly after dark.

  • Avoid leaving valuables on beaches or in rental cars.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 112: All emergencies (EU-wide number).

  • 15: Ambulance

  • 17: Police

  • 18: Fire

  • Keep your embassy contact info handy if you’re staying long-term.

Guadeloupe uses 230V / 50Hz with Type C and E plugs (two round pins). U.S. travelers will need both an adapter and a voltage converter if their devices don’t support 230V.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout the island (treated and regularly tested).

Bottled water is widely available, but feel free to ask for tap water at restaurants.

Being part of France, Guadeloupe observes French national holidays (many shops/services close).

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Easter Monday (March/April, variable)

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 8 May: WWII Victory Day

  • Ascension Day (May, variable)

  • Whit Monday (May/June, variable)

  • 14 July: Bastille Day

  • 15 August: Assumption

  • 1 November: All Saints’ Day

  • 11 November: Armistice Day

  • 25 December: Christmas Day

Note: Carnival season (Jan–Feb) is a cultural highlight with street parades, music, and vibrant costumes. Expect business closures on key parade days.

Shops: Typically open 09:00–13:00 and 15:00–18:00 (long lunch breaks are the norm). Closed Sundays.

Supermarkets: Open all day until ~20:00.

Pharmacies: Open 08:30–12:30, 15:00–18:00; take turns being on duty Sundays.

Markets: Early mornings (especially in Pointe-à-Pitre and Sainte-Anne). Best for tropical fruit, spices, and local crafts.

Colombo de Poulet – Curried chicken with spices, coconut milk, and rice.

Accras de Morue – Salt cod fritters, crunchy and addictive.

Bokit – Fried bread sandwich with fillings like chicken, lobster, or salt fish.

Langouste Grillée – Grilled Caribbean spiny lobster with garlic and herbs.

Boudin Créole – Spicy Creole blood sausage, often served at festivals.

Tropical Fruits – Try guava, soursop, mangoes, and sugar apples fresh from roadside stalls.

Tarte à la Banane – Banana tart with a rum-laced custard filling.

Chiquetaille de Morue – Shredded salt cod with lime and hot pepper.

Matété de Crabe – Crab and rice stew traditionally served during Easter.

Ti Nain Lanmori – Green bananas with smoked herring—a traditional Creole dish.

Alcoholic:

  • Rhum Agricole: Guadeloupe’s signature agricultural rum, made directly from fresh sugarcane juice (unlike industrial rum made from molasses). Visit a distillery for a tasting (e.g., Damoiseau, Bologne, Reimonenq).

  • Ti Punch: The quintessential Caribbean cocktail – rhum agricole, lime, and sugarcane syrup. Often served deconstructed for you to mix to your preference.

  • Planteur: A refreshing fruit punch made with rum, fruit juices (orange, pineapple, guava), and grenadine.

  • Ponciana: A popular local beer, light and refreshing.

  • Local Beers: Look for other local brews like Corsaire.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Fresh Fruit Juices: Abundant and delicious, made from local fruits like passion fruit, soursop (corossol), guava, mango, and carambola (star fruit).

  • Coconut Water: Straight from a freshly cut coconut, incredibly refreshing.

  • Sirop de Canne: Pure sugarcane syrup, often used in drinks or drizzled over desserts.

  • Thé de Brousse: Herbal teas made from local plants, often served for their medicinal properties or simply for enjoyment.

  • Jus de Tamarin: Tangy and sweet tamarind juice.

Memorial ACTe (Pointe-à-Pitre): A powerful and moving museum dedicated to the history of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. Essential for understanding Guadeloupe’s past.

Pointe des Châteaux: A stunning natural site with dramatic cliffs and panoramic views of the Atlantic, showcasing the island’s raw beauty.

Jardin Botanique de Deshaies: A beautiful botanical garden with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Les Saintes: Take a ferry to this charming archipelago, particularly Terre-de-Haut, known for its picturesque bay (one of the most beautiful in the world) and Fort Napoléon.

Parc National de la Guadeloupe: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering a large portion of Basse-Terre, home to the Soufrière volcano and numerous waterfalls.

Creole Architecture: Wander through the streets of Pointe-à-Pitre or Saint-François to admire the colorful, traditional Creole houses.

Carnival (February/March): If your visit aligns, experience the vibrant and energetic pre-Lenten Carnival celebrations, a major cultural event.

Rum Distilleries: Visit a distillery to learn about the history and production of Guadeloupean rum and enjoy a tasting.

Local Markets: Immerse yourself in local life at vibrant markets, where you can find spices, fresh produce, and local crafts.

Gwo Ka Music and Dance: Seek out opportunities to experience Gwo Ka, a traditional Guadeloupean music and dance form with African roots.

Hiking La Soufrière Volcano: For the adventurous, a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of the active volcano for breathtaking views (weather permitting).

Waterfall Chasing: Explore the numerous waterfalls in the national park, such as Carbet Falls (Chutes du Carbet).

Snorkeling and Diving: Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life around Pigeon Island (Réserve Cousteau) in Malendure.

Beach Hopping: Relax on the pristine beaches of Grande-Terre (e.g., Plage de la Caravelle, Plage de Grande Anse) or the black sand beaches of Basse-Terre.

Sailing and Boating: Explore the coastline or take a catamaran trip to nearby islands like Marie-Galante or Les Saintes.

Ziplining/Canopy Tours: Experience the rainforest from above with adventure parks offering ziplining.

Canyoning: Descend waterfalls and navigate rivers with guided canyoning tours.

Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Explore mangroves or calm bays.

Deep-Sea Fishing: Try your hand at catching marlin, tuna, or mahi-mahi.

Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Creole dishes using local ingredients.

Live Music in Saint-François or Gosier: Look for bars and restaurants, especially on weekends, offering live Creole music, jazz, or zouk.

Beachfront Restaurants: Enjoy dinner with a view at one of the many restaurants along the coast, particularly in Gosier or Saint-François.

Casino du Gosier: For those feeling lucky, a casino offering slot machines and table games.

Local Bars (Bars de Quartier): Experience authentic local vibes at smaller, neighborhood bars.

Night Markets: Some towns, particularly during peak season, may have evening markets with food stalls and entertainment.

Salsa and Zouk Nights: Look for places offering dance nights where locals gather to dance to Latin and Caribbean rhythms.

Sunset Cruises: Many operators offer evening cruises with drinks and music, providing stunning sunset views.

Hotels with Entertainment: Larger resorts often have their own entertainment programs, including live music and shows.

Pointe-à-Pitre Nightlife: While not a “party capital,” some bars and restaurants in Pointe-à-Pitre offer evening entertainment.

Restaurants with Ambiance: Focus on places that offer not just good food but also a pleasant atmosphere, sometimes with an ocean view or garden setting.