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.
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.
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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