Guadeloupe：An Archipelago of Islands with an Array of Natural Attractions from Deserts to Mountains

Guadeloupe is a group of islands situated in the eastern Caribbean, at the southeast of Puerto Rico. Guadeloupe is sometimes called as the Butterfly Island since its two major islands resemble that of a butterfly. When sightseeing in Guadeloupe, it would be inevitable not to witness the region's most prized attractions. In order to guide you on your visit, we have listed down several attractions in Guadeloupe for sightseeing.

1. pointe des chateaux

Pointe des Châteaux is a peninsula which extends into the Atlantic Ocean. Known in English as Castles headland, Pointe des Châteaux is distinct due to its unique rock formations and a large littoral strip which is a good place for sightseeing. Moreover, further sightseeing in the area would allow one to witness rare endemic fauna and flora species which found their home at Pointe des Châteaux. The attraction is also popular due to its dramatic and picturesque view of crashing waves and strong winds.

2. Jardin Botanique de Deshaies (Deshaies)

Jardin Botanique de Deshaies is a botanical garden situated in Deshaies, Guadaloupe. When sightseeing at the garden, you would be welcomed a stunning collection of more than a thousand species which are set along 1.5 kilometers of a pathway. The garden is divided into 15 different areas including an arboretum of avocado, jacaranda, and breadfruit tree; an aviary with parakeets; parrots; and orchid collection, pond with water lilies, and a whole lot more. Aside from sightseeing, tourists may also avail of the snack bar and a restaurant which provides a panoramic view of the Caribbean sea.

3. Les Saintes

Iles des Saintes, or simply Les Saintes, is a small archipelago located at Guadeloupe. Known in English as Islands of the Saints, Iles des Saintes is home to more rare and endemic fauna and flora species. When sightseeing at the archipelago, you can witness several historical monuments and museums which will show you a glimpse of the history of Guadeloupe. These monuments which you can visit when sightseeing in Guadeloupe include the Napoleon Fort, the ruins of the lazaretto, and Josephine Fort. Christian feast days, such as Corpus Christi, are widely celebrated at Les Saintes.

4. Plage de la Perle (Deshaies)

Plage de la Perle is a public beach located Deshaies, Guadeloupe. Widely regarded as a favorite shooting place for tv shows, Plage de la Perle proves that there is more to it than just that. It boasts of beautiful white sand and cobalt blue waters which are perfect for swimming and sightseeing. If ever you get tired of sightseeing and swimming, there are lush trees available where you can unwind and enjoy the cold breeze while enjoying locally prepared drinks from its snack bars. Tourists may also enjoy savory cuisines from Guadeloupe at local restaurants which may be found nearby.

5. La Grande Soufriere Volcano (Saint-Claude)

The La Grande Soufriere Volcano is an active stratovolcano situated at Saint-Claude, on the island of Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe. Its name is French for Big Sulfur Outlet. With a height of more than 1,400 feet high, La Grande Soufriere is the highest mountain at the Lesser Antilles in Guadeloupe. The volcano is a favorite spot for sightseeing in Guadeloupe for its majestic view and exciting history. The volcano had its last magmatic eruption was around 1580. On the other hand, its previous volcanic activity was recorded in 1976.

6. Plage de Grande Anse (Deshaies)

Plage de Grande Anse is another public beach situated at Deshaies, Guadeloupe. Like any other beach in Guadeloupe, Plage de Grande Anse is known for its perfect sand and blue waters where tourists usually go swimming and sightseeing. The place is not crowded, and it has relatively big waves, so it is an excellent place to unwind and dive. Its stunning views are a marvel to see. When you are tired of sightseeing, you may also relax under the palm trees found nearby. You may even get a taste of local dishes from Guadeloupe through the restaurants situated there.

7. Parc des Mamelles, le Zoo de Guadeloupe

Parc des Mamelles is a good place for sightseeing when in Guadeloupe. It is a prominent zoo situated in Guadeloupe. Found inside a national park, the zoo aims to conserve and preserve the rainforest and different animal species, especially those who are endangered. The Parc des Mamelles is a sanctuary to more than 85 species of animals that are native to the Caribbean and Guyana. These include birds, mammals, arthropods, and reptiles. Aside from visiting these animals, you will also get to enjoy several activities and attraction for sightseeing in this zoo.

8. Petite Terre

Petite Terre Islands are two small islands located in Guadeloupe. It is known in French as Îles de la Petite Terre which literally means Islands of the Small Land. Petite Terre is generally uninhabited, so sightseeing on these islands would be remarkable. Petite Terre is composed of two islands, namely: the Terre de Haut island to the northeast and the Terre de Bas Island to the southwest. To those who are sightseeing at Petite Terre, you will be welcomed with fine white sand and cobalt blue waters — a usual sight to see when in Guadeloupe. A lighthouse also stands majestically at the islands. Built in 1840, this brick tower is cylindrical in shape with a balcony and a lantern and is considered a marvel in Guadeloupe.

9. Carbet Falls (Leeward Islands)

Carbet Falls is one of the several falls located in the Leeward Islands in Guadeloupe. It is a series of waterfalls on the Carbet river. Its three stunning cascades are set in a tropical rainforest. The tropical rainforest is found on the lower slopes of the La Soufriere volcano. With its fascinating view, Carbet Falls is an excellent place for sightseeing in Guadeloupe. As a matter of fact, around 400,00 tourists go sightseeing on the said falls every year. The second cascade has the most visitors because it can be accessed easily. The first and third cascades can be reached by foot.

10. Plage de Bois Jolan (Saint-Anne)

Plage de Bois Jolan is another tourist spot for those who are sightseeing in Guadeloupe. It is located in the city of Sain-Anne on the island of Grand-Terre. There are many activities in the tourist attraction which tourists can do. Aside from sightseeing, they can also go swimming and snorkeling in the pristine waters of the place. The beach also features interesting fishes which may be swimming with the waves of the sea. You may lay under the shade and watch the stunning view of Plage de Bois Jolan.

◎ Closing

Guadeloupe is a picturesque paradise filled with beautiful beaches and other natural attractions for those who crave adventure, or those who merely want to go sightseeing. Hopping from one island to another, you will surely get to have the experience of your life when you are in Guadeloupe.