Guadeloupe Itinerary 10 Days: Island Hopping & Volcanic Wonders (2026)

Upon arrival at Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport (PTP), pick up your rental car, which is essential for exploring Guadeloupe. Head to your accommodation in Le Gosier, a popular coastal town known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. After checking in and settling down, spend the afternoon relaxing at Plage de la Datcha, a picturesque beach with calm waters perfect for swimming. You can also take a short boat ride to Gosier Islet (Îlet du Gosier) for some snorkeling and stunning views back to the mainland. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Creole dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants in Le Gosier, savoring fresh seafood and local flavors. This first day is designed to ease you into the Caribbean pace of life, allowing you to unwind and soak in the initial beauty of Grande-Terre.

Today, explore the stunning eastern coast of Grande-Terre. Start your day by driving to Sainte-Anne, home to Plage de la Caravelle, often considered one of Guadeloupe's most beautiful beaches with its soft white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Afterward, continue east to Saint-François, a charming fishing village and resort town. Visit the Pointe des Châteaux, the easternmost tip of Grande-Terre, where dramatic cliffs and crashing waves offer breathtaking panoramic views of La Désirade and other islands. Take a short hike to the cross at the summit for the best vistas. Conclude your day back in Saint-François, perhaps enjoying a fresh fish dinner at the marina or exploring its local craft market.

Dedicate today to exploring the vibrant capital city of Pointe-à-Pitre. Begin your morning at the bustling Marché Saint-Antoine, a covered market where you can find local spices, fruits, vegetables, and crafts. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Guadeloupean life. Next, visit the Memorial ACTe, a world-class museum dedicated to the history of slavery and the slave trade in the Caribbean, offering a profound and moving experience. Afterwards, stroll through the city center, admiring the colonial architecture and visiting Place de la Victoire. For lunch, try a local 'bokit' (fried sandwich) from a street vendor. In the afternoon, consider a visit to the Schoelcher Museum, dedicated to Victor Schoelcher, who campaigned for the abolition of slavery. Conclude your day with a relaxed evening, perhaps enjoying a quiet dinner back in Le Gosier.

Today, you'll transition from the eastern wing of Grande-Terre to the lush, mountainous Basse-Terre. Drive across the narrow 'Rivière Salée' (Salt River) that separates the two islands, and head north towards Deshaies. This charming fishing village is known for its picturesque bay and tranquil atmosphere. Your main stop for the day will be the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies (Deshaies Botanical Garden), formerly the property of French comedian Coluche. This magnificent garden showcases an impressive collection of tropical plants, exotic birds, and a waterfall, offering a serene and beautiful experience. After exploring the garden, enjoy lunch in Deshaies, perhaps at a restaurant overlooking the bay. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at Plage de Grande Anse, one of Guadeloupe's longest and most beautiful beaches, famous for its golden sand and swaying palm trees. Check into your accommodation in or around Deshaies or Sainte-Rose for the next few nights.

Today is dedicated to marine life and underwater adventures. Head south from Deshaies to Malendure Beach in Bouillante, the gateway to the famous Cousteau Reserve (Réserve Cousteau). This protected marine park, named after the legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, is a diver's and snorkeler's paradise. Rent snorkeling gear or join a guided boat tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures around the Pigeon Islands. If you're a certified diver, consider a dive trip to experience the deeper wonders of the reserve. After your aquatic adventures, enjoy a casual lunch at one of the beachfront eateries. In the afternoon, you might visit the nearby Maison du Cacao to learn about cocoa production and sample some local chocolate, or simply relax on Malendure Beach, enjoying the black volcanic sand and the view of the Pigeon Islands.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Basse-Terre's lush rainforest within the Guadeloupe National Park. Start your day with a hike to the Carbet Falls (Chutes du Carbet), a series of three spectacular waterfalls. The second fall (Deuxième Chute) is the most easily accessible and offers a stunning view after a relatively short and well-maintained path. For the more adventurous, the first fall (Première Chute) requires a longer, more challenging hike. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring rain gear, as the rainforest climate can be unpredictable. After your waterfall adventure, visit the Parc des Mamelles, a small but charming zoo and botanical garden focusing on local wildlife and flora, including raccoons, monkeys, and colorful birds. It also features canopy walkways for a unique perspective of the forest. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature or find a local restaurant in the nearby towns.

Today is for the adventurous! Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up La Soufrière volcano, the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles. The hike usually starts from the Bains Jaunes (Yellow Baths) and takes about 3-5 hours round trip, offering incredible panoramic views from the summit on a clear day. The landscape changes dramatically as you ascend, from lush rainforest to barren, sulfurous slopes. Be prepared for strong winds, fog, and rain, even if the base is sunny. After your demanding hike, reward yourself with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs of Les Bains Jaunes, known for their therapeutic properties. Alternatively, explore other hot springs like those in Dolé, near Gourbeyre. Conclude your day with a well-deserved hearty dinner, reflecting on your accomplishment.

Delve into Guadeloupe's agricultural heritage today. Start your morning with a visit to La Maison du Café (Coffee House) in Vieux-Habitants, one of the oldest coffee plantations on the island. Learn about the history of coffee cultivation, walk through the plantations, and enjoy a tasting of their locally grown Arabica coffee. Afterwards, head to one of Guadeloupe's renowned rum distilleries. The Habitation La Grivelière, a UNESCO-listed historical site, offers insights into both coffee and cocoa production, alongside a beautiful colonial estate. Alternatively, visit the Domaine de Séverin or Damoiseau Distillery for a rum tour and tasting, where you can learn about the 'rhum agricole' production process. In the afternoon, enjoy the scenic drive along the coast, perhaps stopping at a local beach for a refreshing swim or simply enjoying the views. This day offers a blend of cultural education and sensory delights.

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Les Saintes archipelago, specifically Terre-de-Haut, often cited as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Catch an early morning ferry from Trois-Rivières to Terre-de-Haut. Upon arrival, rent a scooter or electric golf cart to explore the charming village, its colorful houses, and stunning beaches. Visit Fort Napoléon, offering spectacular panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands, and housing a small museum. Spend time relaxing and swimming at Plage de Pompierre or Plage de Grande Anse (not to be confused with Grande Anse on Basse-Terre). Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch in the village. The relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of Les Saintes make it a perfect day for unwinding and soaking in the Caribbean charm. Return to Basse-Terre by late afternoon ferry.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning, perhaps with a last swim at a nearby beach or a relaxed breakfast at your accommodation. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in Pointe-à-Pitre or a visit to a local market to pick up some spices or rum to take home. If you're staying on Basse-Terre, drive back towards Pointe-à-Pitre, allowing ample time for the journey and potential traffic. Return your rental car at the airport and check in for your departure flight. Reflect on the incredible diversity you've experienced, from the vibrant markets and stunning beaches of Grande-Terre to the lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and rich history of Basse-Terre. Guadeloupe's unique blend of French and Creole cultures, coupled with its natural beauty, will surely leave you longing to return.