Guadeloupe National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, local culture, and more with this comprehensive tour guide for Guadeloupe National Park.


Introduction to Guadeloupe National Park

Located on the island of Basse-Terre, in Guadeloupe, Lesser Antilles, in the Caribbean, the Guadeloupe National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Established in 1989, the park spreads over 17,300 hectares of forest and contains several hiking trails, waterfalls, natural pools, and scenic views of the Caribbean Sea. The park is also home to several plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to Guadeloupe.

List of Places to Visit in Guadeloupe National Park

There are plenty of places to visit inside the Guadeloupe National Park including museums, historical places, natural attractions, hiking trails, and more.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in understanding the history of Guadeloupe, make sure to visit these places in the National Park:

  • The Ecomuseum of Guadeloupe at Morne-à-l’eau showcases the cultural heritage and history of the Guadeloupean population.
  • The Fort Delgres is a historic site which memorializes the battle of 1802 between the French army and Guadeloupean freedom fighters.
  • The Sugar Mill Damoiseau is a historic sugar mill that was used for planting and refining sugar cane. It is now a museum.

Natural Attractions of Guadeloupe National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Guadeloupe National Park is home to a variety of natural attractions that will take your breath away. From mountains to waterfalls, here are some must-visit natural attractions:

  • The Soufriere Volcano is the highest peak of Guadeloupe and an active stratovolcano. You can hike to the summit for breathtaking views.
  • The Cascade aux Ecrevisses is a beautiful waterfall cascading into natural pools inviting visitors to enjoy a swim.
  • The Carbet Falls is a series of three waterfalls nestled in lush rainforest offering an impressive scenic view of the Caribbean Sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guadeloupe National Park

Guadeloupe National Park offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that will take you through the lush rainforest and natural attractions of the park. Some popular routes to explore are:

  • The Trace des Contrebandiers is a 6.5 km hiking trail that connects Petit- Bourg to Saint-Claude. It is a relatively easy trail with scenic views along the way.
  • The Grande Randonee 1 is a 45 km long hiking trail that cuts through the heart of the park. It is considered one of the most challenging hiking trails in Guadeloupe.
  • The Trace des Cretes is a 5 km hiking trail running along the ridge of the park, offering stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea on both sides.

Best Things to Do in Guadeloupe National Park: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Guadeloupe National Park that will cater to everyone’s taste. Here are some ideas:

  • Join a guided hiking tour to explore the natural wonders of the park with an experienced local guide.
  • Take a dip into the natural pools and waterfalls of the park on a swimming tour.
  • Try canyoning, a unique activity that involves walking, swimming, and rappelling through the streams to reach the depths of the park.
  • Book a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion to explore the marine life surrounding Guadeloupe.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guadeloupe National Park

If you’re planning to spend a week in Guadeloupe National Park, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the museums and historic attractions of the park.
  • Day 2: Hike to the summit of the Soufriere Volcano.
  • Day 3: Spend a day canyoning through streams and waterfalls.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of the park’s natural attractions.
  • Day 5: Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the sea surrounding Guadeloupe.
  • Day 6: Relax and swim in the natural pools and waterfalls of the park.
  • Day 7: Explore the nearby attractions outside of the park.

Food and Drink Scene of Guadeloupe National Park

Apart from its natural beauty, Guadeloupe is also known for its delicious food and drink offerings. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Accra is a popular appetizer made from ground cassava or plantain mixed with spices and fried.
  • Bokit is a fried bread sandwich stuffed with meat, cheese, and vegetables.
  • Colombo is a Creole dish made with goat meat or chicken and a blend of local spices.

Local Beverages

  • Rum is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Guadeloupe. Try different varieties to discover your favorite.
  • Ti Punch is a typical Guadeloupean drink made of lime, rum, and sugar.
  • Sorrel is a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage made from hibiscus flowers and spices.

Where to Stay in Guadeloupe National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Guadeloupe National Park has a variety of places to stay in and outside the park that cater to different budgets and tastes. Here are a few options:

  • The Jardin Malanga is a luxurious hotel near Trois Rivieres that offers a restaurant, bar, and an outdoor pool.
  • The Gites de Bois Debout is a cozy guesthouse near the park’s entrance, offering comfortable rooms and a shared kitchen.
  • Les Bananiers is a hostel near Saint-Claude with a garden and shared lounge area.

What to Buy in Guadeloupe National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to bring back some souvenirs and local products to remember your trip to Guadeloupe National Park. Here are some ideas:

  • Local spices and blends like Colombo, Creole curry, and pepper sauces.
  • Handmade pottery and ceramics inspired by Guadeloupe’s flora and fauna.
  • Local artwork like paintings, sculptures, and carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Guadeloupe National Park

Guadeloupe has a unique blend of African, European, and Caribbean culture that is reflected in its customs and celebrations. Some of the customs and traditions that are still practiced in Guadeloupe are:

  • The traditional dance style of Gwo-Ka, which is a mixture of percussion music and dance.
  • The traditional carnival celebrations of Mardi Gras, which is a colorful event with music, dance, and costumed participants.
  • The Creole language, a popular blend of African and French languages used in Guadeloupe.

Best Time to Visit Guadeloupe National Park

The best time to visit Guadeloupe National Park is during the dry season from December to May. The weather is pleasant, and fewer mosquitoes are present during this period. However, this also means that this is the peak tourism time, and prices are usually higher during the dry season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guadeloupe National Park

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting the park:

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and avoid littering.
  • Bring enough water and snacks on your hikes.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Touch the park’s flora and fauna.
  • Hike off-trail without a local guide.
  • Swim in prohibited areas.

Safety and Health

When visiting Guadeloupe National Park, it’s essential to keep these safety and health considerations in mind:

Safety in Guadeloupe National Park

  • Always carry your ID and emergency contact information with you.
  • Leave valuable items like jewelry and cash behind when exploring the park.
  • Follow the safety guidelines provided by tour guides and authorities.

Health in Guadeloupe National Park

  • Bring insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season.
  • Ensure that you’re up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling.
  • Consult a doctor if you experience any serious health issues during or after your visit.

Getting to Guadeloupe National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guadeloupe National Park is accessible by various means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Guadeloupe National Park

  • Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport is the main international airport on the island of Guadeloupe and is 25 km from Basse-Terre.

Bus Stations Near Guadeloupe National Park

  • The bus station in Saint-Claude is the main bus station serving the park’s south entrance.
  • The bus station in Petit-Bourg is the main bus station serving the park’s north entrance.

Other Options

  • Taxis are readily available from the airport and cities to the park’s entrance.
  • Car rentals are also available from the airport and cities.

How to Get Around in Guadeloupe National Park

The best way to explore Guadeloupe National Park is by car or on foot. If you’re hiking, make sure to follow the designated trails and carry enough water and food for the entire journey.

Where to Go Next from Guadeloupe National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time in Guadeloupe, some nearby destinations and excursions you should consider are:

  • The Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve is a protected marine park off the coast of Guadeloupe and is excellent for snorkeling and diving.
  • The Trois-Rivieres Botanical Garden is a stunning garden with a collection of tropical plant species.
  • The La Soufriere Waterfall in Sainte Rose is a refreshing waterfall with a pool for swimming and picnicking.

Conclusion

Guadeloupe National Park is an incredible destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant cultural heritage, and thrilling outdoor activities. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to Guadeloupe National Park with ease, and create memories that will last a lifetime.