There are destinations you visit, and then there are places that stay with you. For a growing number of Canadians, the Guadeloupe Islands become exactly that kind of place. A dream destination for culture and well-being, it is also a hidden treasure for outdoor adventures, offering lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and crystal-clear waters perfect for exploration.
Canadians are increasingly drawn to the Guadeloupe Islands, a French Caribbean paradise where six islands – Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, La Désirade, Terre-de-Haut, and Terre-de-Bas (Les Saintes), offer unforgettable experiences in one journey.
Underwater Wonders and Marine Adventures
Home to the largest coral reef in the Lesser Antilles, the Guadeloupe islands stretch over 29 kilometres (18 miles) and shelters nearly 60 species of corals, sponges, and gorgonians, along with 250 species of fish. The Pigeon island (named also as Cousteau Reserve) is a crown jewel for divers, offering a kaleidoscope of parrotfish, groupers, barracudas, and colorful gorgonians. Advanced divers can explore Le Sec Pâté near Les Saintes, a submerged pinnacle teeming with angelfish, moray eels, and lobsters—a world-class dive experience.
A Caribbean Destination that reaches New Heights
In the Guadeloupe islands, Hiking is more than a sport. It’s a way to experience the landscape. Between the volcanic hills of Basse-Terre and the limestone formations of Grande-Terre, hikers encounter a rare diversity of terrain in a tropical setting. Routes are technical, varied, and often framed by sweeping ocean views, dense forest, and dramatic coastlines, offering both beginners and experienced hikers a uniquely immersive experience.
Travellers can hike through rainforest trails to La Soufrière volcano, explore waterfalls tucked deep within Basse-Terre, or head out to sea for catamaran excursions, island-hopping adventures, and lagoon explorations. Grande-Terre’s steady trade winds create ideal conditions for surfing, kitesurfing, and wing foiling, particularly along the coast of Sainte-Anne, where spots like Helleux Beach attract both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Nature and Outdoor
The Guadeloupe islands botanical gardens in Deshaies, Petit-Bourg, like Valombreuse offer a unique mix of science, art, and nature. Also, Deshaies has captured global attention as the setting for the hit British TV series Death in Paradise, allowing visitors to explore iconic filming locations while soaking in the commune’s stunning landscapes.
Where to Stay, How to Experience
From boutique hotels like Les Galets Rouges in Bouillante to scenic stays overlooking Anse à la Barque, the Guadeloupe islands offer accommodations that bring travellers closer to nature. Hôtel Amaudo in Grande-Terre stands out with panoramic views stretching to Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes. Wellness enthusiasts can unwind at spa hotels in Deshaies with sugarcane scrubs, coconut oil massages, and herbal steam baths, all set amid tropical gardens and soothing sounds of nature in Tendacayou Hotel & Spa.
Six Islands, One Journey
What set the Guadeloupe islands apart for Canadians is its diversity. In a single trip, travellers can move from volcanic peaks to surf-ready shores to tranquil lagoons, experiencing six islands—Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, La Désirade, Terre-de-Haut, and Terre-de-Bas (Les Saintes) each with its own character and rhythm.
The Guadeloupe islands are more accessible than ever, with direct Air Canada flights from Toronto resuming December 19, 2026, Québec service starting December 17, 2026 (every Thursday until April 8, 2027), Québec service starting with Air Transat December 18 (every Friday until March 26th, 2027) and multiple existing weekly direct flights between Montréal and Pointe‑à‑Pitre operated by Air Canada, Air Transat all year round.
