Guadeloupe-5-day-itinerary

Guadeloupe Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Pointe-à-Pitre

Morning

  • Arrive at Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport
  • Transfer to your hotel in Pointe-à-Pitre or nearby locations like Saint-François for a more laid-back stay

Afternoon

  • Visit the Pointe-à-Pitre Market (Place de la Victoire) - an excellent spot for trying local cuisine and buying fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs
  • Explore the Musée Saint-John Perse, dedicated to the life and work of the Nobel laureate in literature

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving Guadeloupean creole cuisine. Try popular dishes like Colombo (chicken or fish stew with vegetables) or Saucissons de Guadeloupe (Guadeloupe sausage served in a variety of ways)

Day 2: Basse-Terre and the Soufrière Volcano

Morning

  • Drive to Basse-Terre, the capital of Guadeloupe
  • Visit the Musée Schoelcher which is housed in a stunning colonial-style building. The museum provides insights into the history of Guadeloupe through artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Soufrière Volcano, one of the two active volcanoes on the island (the other being La Grande Soufrière de la Guadeloupe). This volcano offers a unique landscape that has been shaped by its volcanic activity. Hike through the lush forest and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and consider trying Rhum Agricole, which is distilled on-site. Guadeloupe is known for its high-quality rum, often served with water or sugar (or both).

Day 3: Terre-de-Bas Island

Morning

  • Take the ferry to Terre-de-Bas Island (also known as Deshaises island) and explore this unique volcanic formation. It’s a great spot for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch on the island or return to your mainland base for more exploration or relaxation time.
  • Consider visiting La Grande Terre, a scenic part of Guadeloupe, known for its picturesque beaches and charming villages. Visit Sainte-Rose which is famous for its beautiful sandy beach.

Evening

  • Spend the evening in Saint-François or Pointe-à-Pitre, depending on your accommodation choice. Enjoy local cuisine, live music, or simply relax by the sea.

Day 4: Grande-Terre Island and Plage des Salines

Morning

  • Drive to Plage des Salines, one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful beaches. This spot is known for its calm waters, making it an excellent place for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Consider a visit to the nearby Crique Mire (a natural tidal pool where you can see marine life) if time allows.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Plage de la Grande-Terre, which is a stunning beach area with calm waters. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Visit Port-Louis, the main town on Grande-Terre Island, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant market.

Evening

  • Enjoy your last evening in Guadeloupe by trying local delicacies at a restaurant. Consider purchasing souvenirs and mementos to commemorate your trip.

Day 5: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute items or visiting any attraction you might have missed earlier.
  • Transfer back to Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport for your departure flight, filled with memories of your Guadeloupe adventure.

Travel Tips and Requirements

  • Visa Requirements: Check with your embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements for travel to Guadeloupe. As part of France, immigration regulations may apply.
  • Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island freely. Public transportation is also available, but it might not cover all areas you wish to visit.
  • Activities and Safety: Always check the current safety guidelines and recommendations for activities such as hiking or water sports in Guadeloupe. The island is generally safe, with its rich natural beauty offering many opportunities for adventure.
  • Health and Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about any necessary vaccinations before traveling to Guadeloupe.

Additional Information

For detailed information on the history of Guadeloupe, cultural insights, and historical significance of various sites mentioned in this itinerary, consider visiting museums or consulting with local guides.