Best Guadeloupe hiking trails

Before setting out on the island’s scenic trails, it’s worth taking a little time to plan your hike. Guadeloupe’s tropical climate, lush forests, and mountainous terrain create breathtaking landscapes, but they also call for some preparation.

The best time to hike in Guadeloupe is from December to April, during the dry season. Trails are more accessible, visibility is clearer, and there’s less risk of rain. To enjoy the most spectacular views, start your hike early in the morning, between 6:00 and 9:00 a.m., when temperatures are cooler and the light is perfect for photography.

To fully enjoy Guadeloupe’s hiking trails, good preparation and the right gear make all the difference.

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip, essential on volcanic or muddy terrain.
• Bring 1 to 2 liters of water per person, a hat or cap, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. Even during the dry season, a light rain jacket can come in handy when tropical showers pass through.
• Pack a small first aid kit and keep your phone fully charged, especially for longer hikes.
• Always check the weather forecast before leaving: sudden rain can make trails slippery and cause flash floods.
• Avoid hiking alone, and let your accommodation or a local guide know your route. When in doubt, choose a guided tour. It's safer and often more informative.

Tips:
If you’re staying in a local guesthouse in Saint-François, Deshaies, or Basse-Terre, or enjoying an all-inclusive trip, you’ll find several guided excursions to the island’s top hiking sites. It’s a great way to combine comfort, safety, and discovery.

To make the most of hiking in Guadeloupe, choosing the right accommodation is essential. The island offers a wide range of options to suit every traveler and style of adventure.

Those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere can stay in small guesthouses or eco-lodges in Basse-Terre, close to iconic trails like La Soufrière or Trace Victor Hugues. These accommodations are perfect for solo travelers or small groups of friends looking for a deeper connection with nature and local culture.

Hikers seeking the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation will love Club Med La Caravelle, located in Sainte-Anne, on the southern coast of Grande-Terre. This Caribbean all-inclusive resort enjoys an ideal location, with direct beach access and proximity to major routes leading to Pointe des Châteaux, Morne-à-l’Eau, and the Guadeloupe National Park.

After a day on the trails, guests can enjoy every comfort: all-inclusive meals, spa treatments, water sports, and a lively Caribbean ambiance. The resort caters to all types of travelers:

• Families can enjoy peace of mind with supervised kids’ clubs and water activities while parents explore the surrounding nature.
• Couples can unwind with sunset walks on the beach, romantic dinners by the water, and a serene tropical setting.

Guadeloupe reveals itself at your own pace — between nature and comfort. Whatever your travel style, choosing well-located accommodation lets you fully enjoy the island’s most beautiful hiking trails while savoring the relaxed Caribbean lifestyle.