Things to do in Basse-Terre
Basse-Terre, the capital of Guadeloupe and one of the oldest towns in the French Caribbean, is too often just driven through. Yet it is the best base to explore the south of Basse-Terre island: history, a volcano, rivers, waterfalls and black-sand beaches, all within an hour’s drive.
Fort Delgrès
Built from the 17th century onwards facing the sea, the fort is named after Louis Delgrès, the officer who led the 1802 resistance against the restoration of slavery. Its ramparts offer superb views over the Caribbean Sea and the town.
The historic centre and cathedral
Stroll through the town centre: Creole houses, colonial and Art Deco buildings, shady squares. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-Guadeloupe, with its baroque façade, is one of the town’s landmarks.
In the morning, the Basse-Terre market is the place to taste local fruit and buy spices and homemade jams.
Rum and coffee
The Bologne distillery, at the foot of La Soufrière, produces a renowned agricultural rum and welcomes visitors. Further along the Leeward Coast, around Vieux-Habitants, old coffee estates tell the story of the island’s other great crop.
La Soufrière volcano and Bains Jaunes
Above Basse-Terre, in Saint-Claude, the road leads to the Bains Jaunes, a natural hot pool in the rainforest, and to the start of the hike to the summit of La Soufrière, the highest point of the Lesser Antilles. See our dedicated hiking guide.
Waterfalls and rivers
The Carbet Falls in Capesterre-Belle-Eau are among the most spectacular in the Caribbean. Closer by, many rivers offer natural pools to cool off.
Beaches
The south of the island is the land of black volcanic sand: Rivière Sens in Gourbeyre, Grande Anse in Trois-Rivières. Further up the Leeward Coast, Malendure beach in Bouillante faces the Cousteau Reserve, ideal for diving and snorkelling with turtles. See our beach guide.
Day trip to Les Saintes
From Trois-Rivières, a few minutes’ drive away, ferries run to Terre-de-Haut in Les Saintes: an unforgettable day between a stunning bay, Fort Napoléon and beaches.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Basse-Terre?
Three to four days cover the essentials: the town and Fort Delgrès, La Soufrière, a waterfall, a beach or Cousteau Reserve day, and a trip to Les Saintes.
Do I need a car?
Yes, strongly recommended: natural sites are spread out and public transport is infrequent.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season, from December to May, is the most pleasant. The rest of the year stays warm, with more showers and a hurricane season from June to November.