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Exploring Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe: A Nature Lover’s Hiking Paradise

Randonnées Guadeloupe

The Basse-Terre region in Guadeloupe is an invitation to adventure for nature and hiking enthusiasts. It is packed with trails offering spectacular landscapes: volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush tropical forests await you. Le Jardin Malanga takes you on a journey to discover the best hiking routes near the hotel. Put on your hiking shoes, take a deep breath, and let yourself be guided through wild and enchanting landscapes.

Itinerary 1: Soufrière Volcano Hike

For an unforgettable hiking experience, the Soufrière volcano, locally called “the old lady,” is a must-see. Standing at 1,467 meters above sea level, this active volcano is the highest point in the Lesser Antilles and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island of Guadeloupe.

Hike Description:

The Soufrière ascent can be made via various routes, the most popular starting at Bains Jaunes. This 6.4 km round-trip trail winds through dense, lush vegetation where giant ferns and tropical plants thrive. The well-marked trail offers exceptional viewpoints throughout the climb.

As you approach the summit, the scenery changes drastically. The vegetation gives way to a lunar landscape scattered with sulfurous fumaroles and volcanic rocks in various shades. The summit reveals a stunning panorama of the Basse-Terre region with an unobstructed view of the Caribbean Sea.

Volcan La Soufriere

Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours round-trip
Location: Start from the Bains Jaunes parking lot, Saint-Claude
Difficulty Level: Medium to Difficult
Minimum Age: 8 years, due to difficulty and elevation
Guides: Local guides are available to enhance your experience and ensure your safety.
Practical Tip: Depart early in the morning to enjoy the view before clouds cover the summit later in the day.

Itinerary 2: Carbet Waterfalls Hike

The Carbet Waterfalls are among the most spectacular natural sites in Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe. Composed of three majestic waterfalls nestled in the tropical rainforest, they offer a stunning spectacle to every visitor. The first Carbet waterfall, 115 meters high, is the most imposing but also the hardest to access, while the second waterfall, at 110 meters, is the most accessible and one of the most popular among hikers.

Hike Description:

The trail to the second Carbet waterfall is well-maintained and accessible to most hikers. The path winds through lush vegetation, typical of the humid tropical forest, providing an opportunity to observe a rich biodiversity. The trail ends at an observation platform offering an incredible view of one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful waterfalls. For safety reasons, access to the base of the waterfall is prohibited due to the risk of landslides.

Chutes du Carbet

Duration: Approximately 1 hour round-trip
Location: Capesterre-Belle-Eau, start from the Carbet Waterfalls parking lot
Difficulty Level: Easy
Minimum Age: Accessible to everyone
Guides: While the hike is easy and the trail is well-marked, local guides are available to enrich your experience and learn more about the region’s wildlife, flora, and history.
Practical Tip: Bring a camera to capture the play of light through the lush vegetation. The colors and contrasts are simply stunning. Additionally, it’s recommended to wear non-slip shoes, as the trail can be slippery, especially after a rain.

Itinerary 3: Gourbeyre’s Bassin Bleu Hike

For a refreshing experience in the heart of Guadeloupe’s nature, the hike to Gourbeyre’s Bassin Bleu is an ideal excursion. This enchanting site offers an immersion into the tropical rainforest, leading to a natural basin with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a revitalizing swim.

Hike Description:

The trail begins at an informational sign presenting a detailed map of the route. The path initially descends along a small road, crosses fields, and gradually deepens into the tropical forest. Along the way, hikers can admire two remarkable trees: a Bois Rouge Carapate (Amanoa caribaea) with impressive buttresses and a Yellow Mangrove (Symphonia globulifera) known for its stilt roots. About halfway, a small ravine, the Ravine Bois Blanc, must be crossed before continuing on the wide path leading to Bassin Bleu. This basin is fed by a waterfall forming a natural slide, offering a perfect spot to relax and swim.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours round-trip
Location: Gourbeyre, Palmiste section. Start from the parking lot at the beginning of the Bassin Bleu trail.
Difficulty Level: Very Easy
Minimum Age: Accessible to everyone
Guides: Although the trail is well-marked and can be done independently, it’s recommended to contact local guides for a more enriched experience. Some are specially recommended by the Guadeloupe National Park under the “Esprit Parc National” label.
Practical Tip: Even though the trail is easy, it can become muddy and slippery in rainy weather. It’s recommended to wear non-slip hiking shoes. Also, since the basin is not monitored, caution is advised when swimming. It’s also recommended to follow the swimming water quality information provided by the Regional Health Agency.

Itinerary 4: Matouba Hot Springs Hike

Located in the heart of Basse-Terre’s tropical forest, the hike to the Matouba Hot Springs offers a deep immersion in a lush nature, rich in botanical and ornithological discoveries. This excursion leads to outdoor hot springs, offering a unique experience for hikers.

Hike Description:

The trail starts at the Matouba Forest House and quickly enters the humid forest. Along the way, hikers can observe a variety of plant species, including eucalyptus, cypress, large-leafed mahoganies, and Caribbean pines. The fauna is equally impressive, with the possibility of spotting the rare Louis d’Or Organist, a sedentary nesting bird in Guadeloupe.

The trail crosses the Rivière Rouge, known for its cool waters and beautiful waterfall upstream. After a few minutes of walking, the path gradually climbs until reaching the Matouba Hot Springs, which have been recently upgraded to outdoor showers.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours round-trip
Location: Saint-Claude, start from the Matouba Forest House
Difficulty Level: Medium
Minimum Age: Accessible from 10 years, under adult supervision
Guides: Although the trail is marked, a local guide can enrich your experience with information about the local flora, fauna, and history.

Practical Tip: The trail can be muddy and slippery in rainy weather, so it’s recommended to wear non-slip hiking shoes. While the hot springs provide a relaxing experience, swimming should be done with caution due to the water temperature and the lack of supervision.

Practical Tips for Your Hikes in Basse-Terre

– Bring appropriate clothing: The tropical climate can be unpredictable, so always carry a light raincoat and non-slip shoes.
– Stay hydrated: The heat and humidity can be intense, especially in the mountains. Don’t forget to carry enough water.
– Respect the environment: The beauty of Basse-Terre lies in its preserved nature. Carry all your waste with you and stay on marked trails to protect local wildlife and flora.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking thrills hiking up La Soufrière, marveling at the Carbet Waterfalls, cooling off at the Bassin Bleu, or enjoying a moment of relaxation at the Matouba Hot Springs, the Basse-Terre region offers trails that will provide you with unique experiences in the heart of nature. Each hike immerses you in an exceptional tropical world, with lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and breathtaking views.

Le Jardin Malanga, our boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Guadeloupe, is the ideal starting point to explore these natural treasures while enjoying a peaceful setting and absolute comfort. Ready to lace up your hiking shoes? The adventure awaits!

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Excursion in the Archipelago of Les Saintes

Le Jardin Malanga offers you a breathtaking view of the Archipelago of Les Saintes. Now is the time to discover these islands, located just a few dozen minutes by boat from Trois-Rivières.

Considered to be one of the most beautiful bays in the world, this small archipelago is made up of Terre-de-Haut, Terre-de-Bas and 7 rocky islets.

Over there, forget about cars, pollution, the world and the stress of big cities… With its small white houses with red roofs, its country church and its fishing port, the village of Terre-de-Haut stretches out all in length. People of fishermen, the Saintois have managed to keep their authenticity and their charm through the centuries.

Les Saintes is also an archipelago that has been marked by history. Christopher Columbus discovered the archipelago in 1493. It is at Fort Napoleon, nestled on the hillside, that you will discover the history of the archipelago and admire one of the most beautiful views of the bay.

Go now through the streets of Saintes and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of the site. From Pompierre Beach to Anse Rodrigue or from Figuier Beach to Anse Crawen, you will come across paradisiacal places that will make you appreciate the tranquility and change of scenery.

And if you want to extend this parenthesis of happiness away from the sounds of mopeds, Terre-de-Bas remains the wildest island, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

So don’t wait any longer, and come dream!

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Top des 5 visites originales incontournables des Îles de Guadeloupe

 

Si je vous dis « Îles de Guadeloupe » à quoi pensez-vous ? Je mettrais ma main à couper qu’immédiatement vous pensez aux plages paradisiaques des Caraïbes et aux délicieux cocktails que vous rêvez de déguster ! Superbe image me direz-vous, et je ne peux qu’être d’accord, ça fait rêver. Ce qui fait encore plus rêver, c’est tout ce à quoi vous ne pensez pas, toutes les richesses dont vous ignorez l’existence.

Nous vous proposons aujourd’hui de découvrir notre top 5 des visites pour découvrir les îles de Guadeloupe.

  1. Le parc archéologique des roches gravées

Les îles de Guadeloupe ont une histoire riche et la preuve se trouve dans la région de Trois-Rivières sur Basse-Terre. Le Parc archéologique des Roches Gravées est une rare reconnaissance de la civilisation amérindienne. On y trouve des pierres gravées et plus de 200 dessins d’Indiens Arawak datant de plus de 1500 ans. Petit plus ? Cette petite perle est gérée et guidée par les locaux !

Partez à la découverte de ces roches au sein d’un jardin à la végétation luxuriante où vous pourrez admirer des plantes typiques des Caraïbes ! Amusez-vous à les reconnaître, calebassier, manioc, ricin, cacaoyer ou encore vétiver sont au rendez-vous !

– l’entrée y est gratuite

– Vous pouvez déguster des fruits exotiques, une expérience gustative très ludique pour vos enfants !

-Ce n’st qu’à 9 minutes du Jardin Malanga.

 

  1. Le cimetière de Morne-à-l’eau

Morne-à-l’eau est une petite commune de Grande-Terre connue pour son cimetière. Bizarre de visiter un cimetière me direz-vous ? Et bien sachez que la commémoration des morts dans la culture Créole est bien différente de celle en métropole ! A la Toussaint, les familles se réunissent pour passer du temps avec leurs défunts et se remémorer les bons moments et les souvenirs qu’ils ont partagés avec eux, ainsi la tristesse alterne avec la bonne humeur et le bonheur de retrouver sa famille et de partager ses souvenirs.

Ce cimetière est surement l’expression de l’importance de rendre hommage à ses défunts et de maintenir leur souvenir vivant. Ce ne sont pas des tombes en granit ou en marbre qui se dressent devant vous mais bien de véritables maisonnettes ! Certaines familles ont même fait appel à des architectes ! Ces sépulcres sont tous décorés avec soin de carreau en damier noir et blanc. Pourquoi ces damiers ? Personne n’en a vraiment l’explication mais plusieurs hypothèses existent !

Ce cimetière est, depuis 2015, inscrit comme monument historique français au même titre que celui du Père Lachaise à Paris, croyez-mois, il vaut le détour.

 

  1. Plongez dans les saveurs de la cuisine créole !

La Guadeloupe est une île gourmande, vous embarquez pour un délicieux voyage culinaire. La gastronomie créole est un cocktail exotique unique au monde. Prenez un peu de cuisine française, un peu de culture africaine, ajoutez une pincée de cuisine chinoise, mélangez le tout avec des saveurs indiennes et HOP, on se régale.

Voici quelques plats qui me semblent incontournables :

  • Le Bokit, c’est un sandwich dont la particularité est qu’il est frit ! (Vous pouvez trouver un stand littéralement à tous les coins de rue)
  • Les Accras de morue antillais, le nom parle de lui-même, à l’apéro ou en accompagnement c’est toujours délicieux
  • Découvrez également d’autres plats traditionnels créoles comme la chiquetaille de morue, la fricassée de lambis ou les homards dombrés, le bébélé et bien d’autres.

 

  1. Faire l’ascension du Volcan de la Soufrière

Affectueusement surnommé “vié madanm la”, le volcan de la soufrière est situé sur Basse-Terre et, lorsque le ciel y est dégagé, offre de merveilleux panoramas sur la forêt tropicale et l’océan. 

Une balade à faire bien chaussé de ses basquettes pour profiter au maximum de la richesse de ses chemins. Arrêtez vous pour pique niquer (n’oubliez pas de ramasser vos déchets en partant, la nature est plus belle lorsqu’on la respecte), vous baigner dans les bains jaunes ou découvrir quelques unes des nombreuses cascades.

Une fois au sommet, vous serez récompensés de vos efforts par une vue à couper le souffle.

Une chose est sûre, cette balade vous donnera un aperçu des joyaux que renferment les îles de Guadeloupe et vous vous coucherez des étoiles plein les yeux !

 

  1. Les activités aquatiques pour du sport et du fun dans vos vacances dans les îles de Guadeloupe !

Qu’on soit amateur d’adrénaline ou pas du tout, la mer offre une multitude d’activités (ou non activité…. 😉 ) 

Pour les amateurs de Surf, nous vous conseillons vivement le spot de Saint François, la vague y est bien nette et droite dû aux coraux des fonds. Pour les plus expérimentés, ce sera plutôt le spot du Moule, selon la puissance de la houle, la vague peut correspondre à tous les niveaux de surfeurs et vous garanti de passer un très bon moment ! Attention cependant au reef en entrant et en sortant !

Evidemment, tous les sports nautiques sont proposés dans de nombreuses bases nautiques, kayak, paddle pour les plus calmes, kite surf, wind surf, toutes les planches sont praticables ! 

Pour les moins sportifs et les familles, les îles de Guadeloupe offrent également aux yeux et à la baignade de nombreux lagons ! Saviez-vous que le lagon de Saint-François était classé comme le 6e plus beau lagon du monde par le Petit Futé ?! On note également la beauté du lagon de Saint-Anne bordé par une immense plage. Ses eaux protégées par une barrières de corail sont peu profondes, enfilez votre masque et vos palmes, vous pouvez y observez une multitude de poissons multicolores !

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Les Saintes, Terre-de-Bas

Les Saintes, Terre de Bas
Les Saintes, Terre de Bas – Guadeloupe

Wild and frozen in time

Much less visited than its sister island, Terre-de-Bas is the second inhabited island by size in the Les Saintes archipelago with about 2000 inhabitants, mostly concentrated on 2 villages: bourg of Grande-Anse and bourg of Petite-Anse. Terre-de-Bas, with its mountains peaks and cliff drop looks keeps an overall wild and natural theme that seems to have frozen in time. The main activities in the island are fishing and local handcraft like the famous Salako, a manmade hat from the island that looks like the hats you can find in Vietnam.

Les Saintes, Terre de Bas
Les Saintes, Terre-de-Bas – Guadeloupe

Les colors of Mother Nature

If you love Nature, you will fall in love with Terre-de-Bas! Whether you like to spend time on the beach or rather take a deep in the ocean and snorkel or deep dive, you will find you elements there. For the hikers and people who likes to explore the ground, you will be able to hike many paths into the wild nature of the island. There are for main hiking paths in the island ([the Cliff hike] Trace des Falaises, [hike about the pond] Trace du dessus de l’Etang, [hike at the pond shore] Trace du pied de l’Etang and [the Hill hike] Trace du Morne). All the hiking paths meet at the center of the island where you will be able to have a broad view of the region and get familiar with the area with the large map display at the “Citerne” location. From the top, a unique sightseeing spot overlooking Guadeloupe with a clear view of the islands of Marie Galante, Desirade and Dominica! As you will go through those hiking paths, you will be able to appreciate the wide array of bright colors that Mother Nature displays, from the warm colors of the savanna to the deep intense green of the rain forest balanced with the nuances of blue between the sky and the ocean! Whether you are an avid hiker or it is your first time, you will find the hiking path that will meet your needs. Novice will be able to engage on the 45 minutes hiking path while the expert can walk onto the cliff hiking path for a 3 hour of pure fun!

Neither to say, you will need good comfortable shoes to adventure on those paths along with enough water and a good sunscreen protection.

Grande Anse beach is the famous spot in the island with a ¾ mile of white pristine sand and coconut trees but you will not meet a lot of people there; swimming is not recommended at this location as the beach is facing the ocean with very strong waves but still is a great location to relax on the sand, get a nice tan while listening to the waves breaking up on the shore. Only 10 minutes from the ferry dock, this location is easily reachable.

Plongée sous marine aux Saintes
Diving – Les saintes, Terre-de-Bas 

Unique spot of deep diving!

Grande Anse beach is the famous spot in the island with a ¾ mile of white pristine sand and coconut trees but you will not meet a lot of people there; swimming is not recommended at this location as the beach is facing the ocean with very strong waves but still is a great location to relax on the sand, get a nice tan while listening to the waves breaking up on the shore. Only 10 minutes from the ferry dock, this location is easily reachable.

For the avid divers, Grande bay beach is the way to go! It is a small beach with black sand carved into a lush vegetation. Make sure to get your equipment ready and use fins to be able to keep up with all you will have to see underwater as it has a very rich fauna and flora.

If you are looking for swimming location with quiet waters, you will go for this small black sand beach near by the fisherman wharf. This beach is exposed on the Caribbean Sea side and is an ideal location for a great swim with quiet waters.

Pêcheurs des Saintes
Les pêcheurs de Terre de Bas – Les Saintes

The best fishersmen in Guadeloupe

The fisherman in Terre-de-Bas are known to be the best in their category in the archipelago of Guadeloupe! You will need to be there when they come back from the sea after a long day at large!