Guadeloupe proper, large îbutterfly-shaped with its two contrasting lands,éthe hillyéand green Basse-Terre and the vast white sandy beaches of Grande-Terre, is certainlyûthe best known in the’archipelago. But this territory of the Antilles also houses more secret places, like Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and off the coast of LaéDésirade, the éreserve of Petite-Terre.
Les îPigeon islets, in the œheart of the National Park
Nicknamed « Island of Beautiful Waters » (Karukéra in the Caribbean language) by the Amerindians, the first inhabitants of the area, Basse-Terre unfolds the splendor of its tropical forest, its hiking trails, its waterfalls, its volcano (La Soufrière), and… its diving spots. Facing Malendure, the Pigeon islets, which could fit in a square 250 meters on each side, host between 15,000 and 20,000 divers per year.
Les Saintes, restful and peaceful
Considered one of the most beautiful in the world, the bay of Les Saintes more than lives up to its reputation. Out of the water, a festival of colors unfolds, in a gradient of outremer green, lagoon blue, and flamboyant red. Underwater, the spectacle is the same: a surprising cocktail of angelfish in multicolored dresses, gorgonians, corals, sponges, and fish of all varieties.
Petite-Terre, in the realm of lemon sharks
Off the coast of La Désirade, the natural reserve of Petite-Terre, where visits are strictly regulated, shelters endemic species and serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles. But the two uninhabited islets are also a nursery for lemon sharks!
Grande-Terre, for divers of all levels
Welcome to Grande-Terre where turquoise lagoons border a rich countryside. Here, dives suit beginners as much as divers looking for more sporty experiences or shipwreck enthusiasts.
Marie-Galante, authentic and charming
Préplan a trip to the Guadeloupe IslandséThe Guadeloupe Islands are an overseas department, an ID card is sufficient to enter (French nationals). For travel in the Caribbean, a passport is necessary.
Les Îles de Guadeloupe sont un département d’outre-mer, une carte d’identité est suffisante pour y entrer (ressortissant français). Pour les déplacements dans la Caraïbe, prévoir le passeport.
Conditions Fétéo : The high season, called Lent or « dry » season – although showers can still occur during this period – extends from mid-February to mid-August.
Average water tempéeratures : From 25 to 28°C.Détime difference: – 5 h in winter, – 6 h in summer.Diving conditionsée : Visibility: easily 30 m. A 3 millimeter suit is sufficient most of the time. There are many varied dive clubs. The choice can be made « by feeling » quite simply.Electric cur érent: 220V.Currency: The euro. Credit cards work and ATMs are available in larger towns. The cost of living is significantly higher than on the mainland. Checks are not accepted everywhere.Getting aréound: Renting a car is the easiest option.
Tourist Board of the Guadeloupe Islands: www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com
