Guadeloupe and Pointe-à-Pitre: a Caribbean paradise between beaches, nature and Creole culture

Guadeloupe, an archipelago located in the heart of the Caribbean, seduces with its diversity of landscapes, its cultural richness and its warm hospitality.

Nicknamed the Butterfly Island thanks to the shape of its two main islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, it offers a multitude of experiences, ranging from fine sandy beaches to lush green mountains.

Pointe-à-Pitre, the main city, is a dynamic crossroads where culture, history and modernity blend.

Airport

Guadeloupe Pôle Caraïbes International Airport, located a few kilometers from Pointe-à-Pitre, is the main gateway to the archipelago.

It is served by numerous flights from mainland France, the Caribbean and other regions of the world.

The airport offers modern services, such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and transportation options to reach different points of the island, whether by taxi, bus or rental car.

LANGUAGES

French is the official language of Guadeloupe, used in all administrations, schools and media.

Guadeloupean Creole, steeped in history and traditions, is also widely spoken by the population and reflects the unique cultural identity of the archipelago.

English-speaking visitors will find assistance at tourist locations, where English is also spoken.

Must-do activities

In Pointe-a-Pitre

Colorful markets: Explore the Darse or Saint-Antoine markets, where stalls are full of tropical fruits, spices, local rums and traditional crafts.

Museums: The ACTe Memorial, dedicated to the history of slavery and Afro-Caribbean culture, is an essential place to understand the past and identity of Guadeloupe.

Colonial architecture: Stroll through the bustling streets of Pointe-à-Pitre, lined with Creole houses and historic buildings like Place de la Victoire.

On the island

Dream beaches: The beaches of Grande-Terre, such as Sainte-Anne beach or Caravelle beach, offer crystal clear waters and white sand, ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Basse-Terre is home to spectacular volcanic beaches, such as Malendure Beach, renowned for its seabed.

Natural exploration: Go hiking in the Guadeloupe National Park to discover the tropical forest, waterfalls like those of Carbet, and the majestic Soufrière volcano, the highest point in the Lesser Antilles.

Water sports: Enjoy scuba diving at the Cousteau Reserve, snorkeling in the lagoons, or kayaking in the mangroves of Grand-Cul-de-Sac Marin.

Surrounding islands

Marie-Galante: Nicknamed "the island of a hundred mills", it is famous for its peaceful beaches and rum distilleries.

Les Saintes: A small, picturesque archipelago with one of the most beautiful bays in the world, perfect for a ferry trip from Pointe-à-Pitre.

La Désirade: A peaceful island ideal for recharging your batteries.

gastronomy

Guadeloupean cuisine is a blend of African, Indian, European and Caribbean influences, offering an explosion of flavors

Traditional dishes: Try chicken or goat colombo, a local curry, or even cod fritters, iconic savory fritters.

Seafood: Fresh fish, lobsters and conchs (shellfish) are a must in local restaurants.

Tropical Desserts: Indulge in sweet treats like homemade coconut sorbets or tarts made with local fruits, such as guava or banana.

Drinks: Enjoy the ti-punch, an iconic cocktail made with agricultural rum, lime and cane sugar, or explore the distilleries for an immersion in rum production.

Climate

Guadeloupe enjoys a warm and sunny tropical climate all year round, with average temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C.

Dry season (December to May): This is the best time to visit, with sunny weather ideal for the beach and outdoor activities.

Wet season (June to November): Tropical showers are frequent, but they are usually short.

This period is ideal for nature lovers, because the vegetation is lush.

Administrative formalities

As a French overseas department, Guadeloupe is part of the European Union.

Citizens of the EU and many other countries only need a valid ID card or passport to enter.

Travel insurance is recommended to cover possible medical or cancellation costs.

Guadeloupe and Pointe-à-Pitre are ideal destinations for a stay combining relaxation, discovery and adventure.

Between its idyllic beaches, its rich culture and its exceptional natural environment, the archipelago offers a real change of scenery just a few hours by plane from Europe.

Whether you are looking for relaxation, hiking or gourmet pleasures, Guadeloupe has everything to seduce you.