Basse-Terre, the volcanic and mountainous part of Guadeloupe, is largely covered by the Guadeloupe National Park, a vast area of tropical rainforest crisscrossed by hiking trails for all skill levels.
The most iconic site remains the volcano at the Soufrière, which is still active and can be climbed via several trails to its summit at an elevation of over 1,400 meters—a challenging hike but one that is accessible to hikers in good physical condition, offering spectacular views of the island when the clouds permit.
More accessible, the Carbet Falls, among the highest waterfalls in the Caribbean, are accessible via trails through the tropical forest, with varying levels of difficulty depending on which waterfall you choose. Other waterfalls and natural pools, such as those at Les Écrevisses, offer family-friendly walks in the shade of tree ferns and giant bamboo.
The park is also home to protected flora and fauna, including several endemic species. Most of the trails start at access points located less than an hour’s drive from Deshaies, making it easy to combine a beach vacation on the coast with excursions inland.
Be sure to check the weather conditions before you go: at higher elevations, the weather can change quickly, and some trails are temporarily closed during heavy rain. For more ideas for outings in the region, check out our article Visit Basse-Terre complements this guide.
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