Guadeloupe Itinerary 7 Days: Island Hopping and Rainforest Adventures (2026)

Upon arrival at Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport (PTP), pick up your rental car, which is essential for exploring Guadeloupe. Head towards Grande-Terre, the eastern 'wing' of the butterfly island, known for its drier climate and beautiful white-sand beaches. Check into your accommodation, perhaps in the charming town of Saint-François or Sainte-Anne. Spend your afternoon relaxing at Plage des Salines, famous for its calm waters and picturesque scenery, perfect for unwinding after your journey. In the evening, explore the vibrant market in Saint-François, where you can sample local delicacies and soak in the lively atmosphere. Enjoy your first authentic Creole dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and traditional spices.

Dedicate today to discovering Grande-Terre's stunning coastline. Start your morning at Plage de la Caravelle in Sainte-Anne, renowned for its turquoise waters and gentle waves, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. After a relaxing beach session, drive to Pointe des Châteaux, the easternmost tip of Guadeloupe. This dramatic headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and neighboring islands like La Désirade. A short hike to the cross at the summit provides an even more spectacular vista. Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the food trucks or small restaurants near Pointe des Châteaux, offering fresh grilled fish. Conclude your day with a visit to Plage des Raisins Clairs, another beautiful beach near Saint-François, perfect for a sunset stroll.

Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Guadeloupe by starting your day in Pointe-à-Pitre. Explore the bustling markets like Marché Saint-Antoine, filled with spices, fruits, and local crafts. Visit the Schoelcher Museum, dedicated to Victor Schoelcher, who abolished slavery in the French Antilles, and admire the colonial architecture of the city center. After a morning of cultural exploration, head north to the town of Le Moule to visit a traditional rum distillery, such as Damoiseau. Learn about the sugarcane cultivation and rum production process, culminating in a tasting session of their renowned agricultural rum. Spend your late afternoon enjoying the dramatic, wilder coastline near Le Moule, perhaps watching surfers if the waves are up. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Le Moule.

Today, you'll cross over to Basse-Terre, the mountainous and lush western 'wing' of Guadeloupe, known for its volcanic landscape and rainforests. Drive along the scenic Route de la Traversée, which winds through the heart of the Guadeloupe National Park. Your first major stop will be the Cousteau Reserve (Réserve Cousteau) near Bouillante. This protected marine area is a world-famous spot for snorkeling and diving, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Rent snorkeling gear or join a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the underwater wonders. In the afternoon, continue your drive north along the coast to the charming fishing village of Deshaies, where you'll check into your accommodation. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the bay.

Dedicate today to the natural wonders of the Guadeloupe National Park. Start your morning with a hike to the Carbet Falls (Chutes du Carbet), a series of three magnificent waterfalls. The second fall is the most accessible and popular, offering a rewarding view after a relatively easy walk. Alternatively, for a more challenging hike and a dip in natural hot springs, consider exploring the trails around La Soufrière volcano, Guadeloupe's highest peak. Even if you don't summit, the surrounding trails offer incredible biodiversity. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies (Deshaies Botanical Garden), a stunning garden showcasing a vast collection of tropical plants and birds, formerly owned by comedian Coluche. Return to Deshaies for a relaxing evening.

Spend your morning exploring the southern part of Basse-Terre. Visit the Parc Archéologique des Roches Gravées in Trois-Rivières, an archaeological site featuring ancient petroglyphs carved by the Arawak people. This offers a fascinating glimpse into Guadeloupe's pre-Columbian history. Afterwards, head to the nearby Maison du Café (Coffee Museum) to learn about the island's coffee production and enjoy a tasting. In the afternoon, return north along the coast to spend a leisurely time at Plage de Grande Anse, one of Guadeloupe's most iconic beaches. Its golden sand, fringed by palm trees, and calm waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the relaxed Caribbean vibe. Enjoy a final Creole dinner in Deshaies, perhaps trying a different restaurant.

Enjoy a final Guadeloupean breakfast at your accommodation in Deshaies or a nearby café. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Head back towards Pointe-à-Pitre, allowing ample time for the drive and any potential traffic. If time permits, make a quick stop at the Memorial ACTe, a striking museum and memorial center dedicated to the history of slavery and the slave trade, offering a powerful and moving experience. Return your rental car at Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport (PTP), filled with memories of Guadeloupe's stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Depart from Guadeloupe, already planning your next visit to this Caribbean gem.