Activities and excursions

Guadeloupe Islands

Location: located in Pointe-à-Pitre

The original ambition of the Mémorial ACTe was to create a place dedicated to the collective memory of slavery and the slave trade, open to the contemporary world.
As well as being the direct history of the people of Guadeloupe and the Caribbean, the history of slavery and the slave trade concerns the whole of humanity.
Offering a place of remembrance and research means not only uniting all sections of the population around a shared past, but also a commitment to raising the question of freedom, all freedoms, and living together.

Location: located in the commune of Bouillante in Guadeloupe.

The Cousteau Reserve is a protected marine area. It owes its name to "Commandant Cousteau", French naval officer and great oceanographic explorer, who declared that this site should be preserved.
An area of around 400 hectares around îlet Pigeon has been preserved to protect the seabed and limit fishing.
First dives and snorkeling excursions are organized to discover numerous species of coral, tropical fish, sea turtles and much more.
In January and February, you can hear the humpback whales on parade offshore...

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North of Grande Terre, in the countryside around Port Louis, this former sugar mill has been restored and rehabilitated, bringing back to life a part of Guadeloupean culture. A heritage rich in emotion and knowledge.
Beauport takes you to the heart of Guadeloupe's sugar culture. In addition to the historical part of the site, a visit to this sector of activity using modern instruments will plunge you into all aspects of the cultivation of this plant.
Not forgetting the little train for young and old, and the tasting of pure cane juice!

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The Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul was built in 1807. When it collapsed in 1843, its wooden structure was replaced by a metal frame built in the Eiffel workshops.
This architecture enabled it to withstand the many cyclones and earthquakes that ravaged the city.

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The Maison du cacao is located in the heart of an ancient cocoa-growing region. As you stroll through the botanical garden, you'll discover the origins of chocolate and how the cocoa tree is cultivated through its various stages of growth.
Originating in Guadeloupe in the 17th century, cocoa cultivation is rooted in the country's history. It bears witness to a past rich in tradition.
Your visit ends with an instructive explanation of how cocoa paste is made, and a tasting of 100% cocoa island chocolate.

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On Basse-Terre, in the commune of Trois Rivières, the Parc archéologique des roches gravées is easily accessible on foot via a footpath.
Discover the site's hidden treasures and its 230 engravings, the most impressive of which are representations of busts and faces.
The origin of such works of art dates back to the time of the Arawak Indians, who made their home on the island.
The engravings on the rocks are a formidable testimony to the presence of this people in Guadeloupe.
The park also boasts countless botanical treasures, including medicinal plants much used by the Amerindians. The Parc des roches gravées (Engraved Rocks Park) is the most beautiful site in the world for the display of engravings made by the Arawak Indians.

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Come and discover the mysterious world of sperm whales, humpback whales, pilot whales, pantropical spotted dolphins and Atlantic dolphins that cross our waters in Bouillante, a commune on the Caribbean coast of Guadeloupe.
The approach to these mammals respects the very recent "Charter for the good practice of whale ecotourism" and does not involve diving.
An unforgettable experience for young and old alike!!!!

Location: located on Basse Terre, in the commune of Deshaies

The botanical garden is an exceptional landscape and wildlife park. Set in a five-hectare estate that once belonged to Coluche, you'll discover a wealth of Caribbean flora.
You'll admire a magnificent collection of water lilies, including Koi carp. The village of parrots, the majestic "Tallipot" palm tree, unique to Guadeloupe, red flamingos from the Caribbean which had disappeared from our island...
A circuit which, at every turn, offers you a new landscape: torrent, waterfall, vegetal water wall, orchids, cacti, lotus, water lilies, epiphytic plants, rare plants...
Nature in all its splendor!

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This 10-meter-high waterfall is located in the Guadeloupe National Park.
It takes its name from the former abundance of local crayfish, also known as "ouassous".
Today, however, the crayfish are virtually invisible to the public. Easy to access and popular with walkers, it offers a tropical ambience that you're sure to appreciate.
The vegetation is lush and verdant. You'll see flowers in a multitude of colors. You'll be able to swim in peace and quiet, even if the water isn't always crystal-clear.
A picnic area with riverside straw huts is available on site.

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Pointe des Châteaux is a peninsula located at the easternmost tip of Grande-Terre. Only 11 kilometers from Saint-François, it is easily accessible and a must-see tourist spot when visiting Guadeloupe. It is adorned with a huge cross, and to the left of the point is the beach of Grandes Salines, where large waves come to rest.
The climb up Morne Pavillon, a small hill at the end of Pointe des Châteaux, to the large cross, is not as easy as it sounds.On a clear day, you can also see Les Saintes, Marie-Galante and La Soufrière!

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The Chutes de la Rivière du Grand Carbet is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Lesser Antilles. The river undoubtedly owes its name to the Amerindian village of carbets (large open huts used as shelters) that was built not far from its mouth.
The Grand Carbet River rises on the eastern flank of La Soufrière. Its sulphurous waters are cleared by three waterfalls before flowing into the sea 11 km down the island's Atlantic coast.
It is said that Christopher Columbus, when he landed in Guadeloupe in November 1493, saw the first two waterfalls from the shore of Capesterre Belle-Eau.

SITE

• The first Chute is a two-stage, 115 m jump (3 hours' drive from the parking lot).
• The second Chute, 110 m high, is the best-known (45 min. AR from the parking lot).
• The third falls from a height of 20 m into a magnificent circular pool. It is most impressive for its sheer volume of water.

Location: in the Caribbean arc

The Petite Terre islands of Terre de Haut and Terre de Bas are linked to the island of Désirade.
These islands are classified as a protected nature reserve. They are ideal for discovering the marine and terrestrial flora and fauna of the West Indies.
The island of Terre de Bas, the only part of the reserve that tolerates human activity, is a magnificent spot for relaxation and leisure...

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Numerous hikes on "traces" will enable you to discover the many facets of the island's traditions and natural heritage.
Set off with your guide through surprising forests that you will appreciate with all your senses: observing trees, lianas, ferns, smelling the intoxicating perfumes of different plant essences, listening to nature's songs or tasting flowers, leaves and even live insects!

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Reached via the Route de la Traversée, this is a highlight of Guadeloupe's natural heritage. A safe, well-maintained path plunges you into a magnificent exotic setting!
The zoological park offers you the chance to see animals such as racoons, iguanas, monkeys, parrots, turtles, scolopendres, toads and many other species.
The walk continues in the canopy, where you'll experience the tropical forest from the top of the tallest trees. A unique adventure!

Location: west of Grande-Terre.

Pointe-à-Pitre is ideally located in the center of Guadeloupe, at the junction between Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre.
Pointe-à-Pitre was built on marshland, and has gained ground on the sea. It is a low-lying town on the edge of a mangrove swamp.
The communes bordering Pointe-à-Pitre are Les Abymes, Baie Mahault and Le Gosier.
Pointe à Pitre is a city of eclectic architecture: the Place de la Victoire, witness to many events in Guadeloupe's history; the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul, a listed historic monument with its imposing neoclassical façade; the industrial wasteland of the Darboussier factory and its working-class district; the cemetery and its many architectural treasures...
In the streets of the city center, you'll discover magnificent alignments of Creole houses with flower-filled balconies, huts and a series of residences, the oldest of which date back to the end of the 19th century.
On rue Achille René-Boisneuf, you'll also find the house where poet Saint-John Perse was born, and the former town hall, inaugurated in 1885.

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Location: Bouillante, Guadeloupe

The Réserve Cousteau is a protected marine area.
It was named after "Commandant Cousteau", French naval officer and great oceanographic explorer, who declared that this site should be preserved.
An area of around 400 hectares around the îlet Pigeon is preserved to protect the seabed and limit fishing.
Dive trips and snorkeling tours are organized to discover numerous species of coral, tropical fish, sea turtles and much more.
In January and February, you can hear the songs of humpback whales as they parade offshore....

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If you're in the mood for exploration, don't hesitate to take the legendary LANDROVER 4x4 DEFENDER off the beaten track and into the heart of authentic, secret and lush Guadeloupe with your naturalist guide !!!!!
Discover the north of Basse-Terre with its unsuspected corners and magnificent beaches; or the south, renowned for its rainforest and unmissable waterfalls...

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Îlet du Gosier is a kilometer-long islet a few hundred meters off the coast of the town of Gosier. Its red lighthouse marks the entrance to the port of Pointe-à-Pitre, a dangerous passage for boats due to the numerous coral reefs.
The area is perfect for snorkeling.

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Basse-terre, the "Côte sous le vent" region, offers an abundance of beaches. From Plage des Amandiers to Plage de Malendure, it's a succession of beaches of varying lengths, veritable little jewels such as the superb Plage de Grande Anse, one of the most beautiful beaches in Guadeloupe.
Between Trois-Rivieres and Vieux-Fort, one of the most beautiful black sand beaches in Basse-Terre. Grande-Anse is very popular at weekends. However, it doesn't offer any water sports activities in the surrounding area, which may disappoint water sports enthusiasts.

Location: north of Bouillante, not far from the small fishing village

Malendure beach is one of the few black sand beaches in Guadeloupe, due to its proximity to the volcano.
Facing the famous Ilets Pigeon, Malendure beach is a must for scuba diving and seabed enthusiasts!
Known for its rich seabed, turtle sightings are not uncommon.
Malendure beach is a meeting place for divers and tourist activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving initiation or a glass-bottom boat trip.
A choice for everyone!

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An important seaside commune, Sainte Anne offers dream beaches and an ideal location in the heart of Grande Terre for discovering the region's many other wonderful beaches.
Apart from its small craft village for shopping, Sainte Anne's main attraction lies in its beaches. For they are absolutely sumptuous: blinding white sand under the sun, a coral reef to embrace calm, clear waters with turquoise reflections, coconut and grape trees to offer their benevolent shade. These are truly postcard-perfect beaches.
The first to arrive is the one bordering Club Med. This is the Caravelle beach. Poorly signposted, you have to take the path opposite the petrol station. A word of advice: don't wait until the end of the cul-de-sac to park. A variety of water sports can be practised here, including windsurfing and surfing in the coral reef passes. It's a particularly popular beach, and extremely busy at weekends. The setting is absolutely exceptional!

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The Plage des Raisins, recognizable by its round fruit trees, takes its name from the many grape trees that line the beach.
All year round, this magnificent beach in Saint-François offers you the finesse of its white sand and its superb lagoon with transparent waters.

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Come and explore the Baie des Saintes in a transparent kayak or by hanging on to a thruster that will take you effortlessly to the coral reef. You'll also be able to observe all aspects of the marine flora and fauna.

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Discover the Grand Cul de Sac Marin Nature Reserve, home to îlet CARET, a blue Eden on the edge of the largest coral reef in the Guadeloupe archipelago.
Sail up the Rivière Salée through the island's largest mangrove swamp, a magical place with its mangrove forest, a veritable biotope and bird nursery. An eco-tourist day in the heart of the lagoon.
Lunch on the îlet La BICHE with a refreshing planter, a Creole-style meal and homemade coconut sorbet.
Relax or discover the magnificent seabed by snorkeling.

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Archipel Plongée is a diving center located on Malendure beach, supervised by state-certified instructors. Jean-Pierre Rébus and his team organize up to 4 dives a day, over 20 different dive sites, day trips, night dives and wreck dives.
You'll dive in complete safety, on the fabulous seabed of the Cousteau reserve.

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Departing from Malendure beach, the glass-bottomed boat will take you to the Ilets Pigeon for a trip lasting around 1h15.
The first part of the excursion is devoted to visiting and exploring the marvellous seabed of the Réserve Cousteau.
The second part is devoted to the joys of snorkeling, to get a closer look at these magnificent colorful fish and coral!
The boat's captain will offer you a traditional planteur or soft drink to round off this wonderful trip.

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Come and discover the beauty of the Petit Cul de Sac Marin on your water scooter.
Access to the unusual mangrove swamp to observe the wild flora and fauna. The calm of nature awaits you.
Whether you're alone or with a partner, come and experience a moment of pure bliss.

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Take a guided tour of the underwater world with our biology instructors.
Equipped with scuba tank or just fins, mask and snorkel, they'll help you discover the riches of Guadeloupe's coral reef.
We offer first dives, training, exploration, photo and biology courses, and underwater hikes. Come and discover with us the unique architecture of the "Grottes" and "Arches" of Port Louis.

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Discover another way to enjoy the sea: by kayak, starting in the mangrove swamps or crossing to islets in nature reserves.
Here you can observe the rich flora and fauna, then sail into Guadeloupe's most beautiful lagoon with its shallow waters or to islets, a popular diving spot.

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Come and discover the exceptional beauty of the bay of Saint-François.
We offer baptisms, explorations and FFESSM training courses, in a shallow lagoon full of fish, ideal for beginners and children.

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Stand-up paddling is a totally new approach to nature.
Standing on a board, equipped with a paddle, you can paddle on flat water or in small or large waves.
You can go for walks, in groups, for long or short rides...
The choice is yours!

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Created in 1978, Golf de St François is an 18-hole international course designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior, renowned for the complexity of his courses. It's a par 71 for golfers of all levels. The course was completely renovated in 2011, and a Club House was added in 2012.
It's a harmonious, relatively flat course where all shots are permitted, but beware of the trade winds that can play tricks on you and come to referee the game! Open all year round, it's equally suited to tourist and competitive golf. It's best to play in the morning and late afternoon, and it's advisable to stay hydrated throughout your round.
You can rent golf carts on site, book your own greens fees or take golf lessons.
For golf enthusiasts, a departmental airfield adjoins the St François golf course, making it possible to travel to neighboring islands less than 45 minutes away: St Kitts, Martinique, Saint Lucia...

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La Soufrière, nicknamed "the old lady", is an active volcano located in Guadeloupe, in the national park of the same name, in the south of the island of Basse-Terre. The commune of Basse-Terre, capital of the overseas department, lies some ten kilometers to the southwest, with the Carbet Falls on its eastern flank. It is the island's only active volcano, currently in a state of eruptive rest.‍
La Soufrière is part of a volcanic complex made up of the Carmichaël, Nez Cassé, Échelle, Citerne and Madeleine volcanoes. It is one of nine active volcanoes in the Lesser Antilles.