One trip, two very different islands

Guadeloupe spreads its two wings around the narrow Rivière Salée: Grande-Terre to the east, where you’re staying, is limestone and sugar-cane country with the island’s best beaches and liveliest nightlife. Basse-Terre to the west is a volcanic rainforest, wetter and wilder, crowned by the live volcano La Soufrière and laced with waterfalls. Most first-time visitors are surprised how much fits into one small archipelago — plan on at least a few day trips to see both sides properly, plus the outer islands of Les Saintes, Marie-Galante and La Désirade if you have the time. Most Europeans have never been — which is exactly what makes it feel undiscovered.

We’ve split our guide into three parts so you can dive into whichever interests you most:

Beaches & Nature

Volcano hikes, rainforest waterfalls, and the beaches — from golden sand to black volcanic sand — that make Guadeloupe a Caribbean icon.

Explore beaches & nature →

Sightseeing & Things To Do

Historic forts, a world-class memorial, rum distillery tours, boat trips to nearby islands, and adventures for every energy level.

Explore things to do →

Culture, Food & Shopping

Creole cuisine, gwoka music and Carnival, lively markets, madras fabric, and what to bring home from the island of rum and vanilla.

Explore culture & food →