Basse-Terre

Guadeloupe, The Caribbean

Basse-Terre, the lush western part of Guadeloupe, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including the majestic La Soufrière volcano and the vibrant Caribbean landscapes. Nature enthusiasts flock here for adventure, with opportunities for hiking in the National Park, discovering picturesque waterfalls, and exploring rich marine life along the coast. Basse-Terre's charming towns, local markets, and historical sites add to its allure, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Le Raizet

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Basse-Terre

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike La Soufrière Volcano

Conquer the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles!

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Deshaies Botanical Garden

Explore lush gardens with exotic plants and wildlife.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Malendure Beach

Dive into vibrant coral reefs teeming with life.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the National Park

Discover diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Rum Distilleries

Taste authentic rum and learn the distillation process.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Fort Delgrès

Explore a historic fort with panoramic views.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Grande Anse Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming in turquoise waters.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayak in the mangroves

Paddle through serene mangroves and see wildlife.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a local food market

Savor local produce and culinary delights.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Memorial ACTe

Learn about the history of slavery in the Caribbean.

No booking required
11

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go on a whale watching tour

Spot magnificent whales in their natural habitat.

Booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the local art scene

Discover local artists and unique crafts.

No booking required
13

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a sunset cruise

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Caribbean.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Porc-Colombo

Spicy pork stew with Caribbean spices. (National dish)

Accras de Morue

Cod fritters, crispy and flavorful.

Bokit

Fried sandwich filled with various ingredients.

Boudin Creole

Blood sausage with spices and herbs.

Blanc Manger Coco

V

Coconut pudding, sweet and creamy dessert.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)