Guadeloupe Islands
Visiting the Guadeloupe Islands is a rich and unforgettable Caribbean experience, blending stunning natural beauty with vibrant Creole culture. The main butterfly-shaped islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, offer contrasting adventures—lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the active La Soufrière volcano in Basse-Terre, and sun-soaked beaches, coral reefs, and lively coastal towns in Grande-Terre. Explore underwater wonders at the Pigeon’s islets Marine Reserve, hike through tropical national parks, or relax on pristine sands like Plage de la Caravelle. Beyond the main islands, take day trips to Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, or La Désirade for quiet charm, snorkeling, and authentic island life. Savour the local culture through Creole cuisine, street food, colourful markets, music, and dance. French influence is present in the language, architecture, and dining, offering a unique blend of Europe and the Caribbean. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural discovery, the Guadeloupe Islands offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences for every traveller. Visit our website
Dining
Dining in the Guadeloupe Islands is a flavourful journey through French, African, Indian and Caribbean influences.
Creole cuisine dominates, featuring spicy, aromatic dishes like colombo (a curry-like stew), accras (fried codfish fritters), and bokits (deep-fried sandwiches). Fresh seafood—lobster, conch, and snapper—is widely available, often grilled or stewed in rich sauces. Street food is popular, with vendors offering tasty snacks and tropical fruit juices.
French culinary traditions are present in bakeries, bistros, and fine-dining spots, especially in urban areas. Meals are lively, social experiences, often accompanied by local rum. Dining in Guadeloupe blends rustic island flavours with refined French flair. Learn More
Quick Facts
Banking & Banking Hours: Most major French banks have branches on the island including BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole and La Banque Postale. ATMs are widely available in urban areas and tourist zones. Banks are generally open at 8 or 8:30am to 4 or 4:30pm with a two hour break for lunch usually between noon and 2pm. Some branches are open on Saturday mornings; all banks are closed on Sundays.
Currency: Euro. Canadian dollars can be exchanged locally, however it is suggested to arrive with some euros for shopping at local markets, etc. where cash is preferred. Most major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger stores.
Climate: Typically 30°C / 86°F year-round with slight variations: the dry season is December through May, and the rainy season is June to November.
Dress Code: The Guadeloupe Islands form a French Caribbean archipelago with a relaxed but stylish dress culture. It blends tropical practicality with French influence, so think comfortable, climate-appropriate, and smart casual—especially in towns or finer establishments. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting churches, historical site and rural village during local events.
Driving: You drive on the right-hand side of the road (like in North America); seat belts are mandatory and mobile phone use is prohibited. Canadian driver’s licenses are valid though for longer stays, an international license may be required. Roundabouts are common; renting a car to visit beaches and rural areas is encouraged.
Electricity: Adapters are required (Type A/B to C/E) Voltage is 230V; 50 Hz (plugs are Type C and Type E)
Languages spoken: French is the official language; Créole is widely spoken. English is spoken in tourist areas and by hotel staff and tour guides.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time; the archipelago does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Photo Gallery
The beautiful turquoise waters of Grand Cul-de-Sac, a nature reserve
Habitation Roussel-Trianon, a historic former sugar plantation located in Grand-Bourg, on the island of Marie-Galante
Vieux Fort Saint-Louis Beach, on Marie-Galante
Divers and snorkerlers will delight in the waters surrounding Guadeloupe
La Désirade, the Desert Botanical Garden offers a surprising stroll between mineral and vegetal, poetry and science
Discover Canyon de la Moustique, a natural gem nestled in the heart of the rainforest of Petit-Bourg
Activities
The Guadeloupe Islands offer a vibrant mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Explore lush rainforests in Basse-Terre, hike to La Soufrière volcano, or swim beneath Carbet Falls. Discover world-class diving and snorkeling at Pigeon‘s islet Marine reserve, formerly called Cousteau reserve.
Relax on the stunning beaches of Grande-Terre, like Sainte-Anne or Plage de la Datcha. Visit colourful markets, sample Creole cuisine, and learn local history at Memorial ACTe. Take a boat trip to Les Saintes or Marie-Galante for idyllic island escapes. Surf in Le Moule, kayak through mangroves, or enjoy rum tastings at local distilleries.
The archipelago blends nature, adventure, and culture into one unforgettable experience. Learn More.
Travel Essentials
- Flight Info
- Entry Requirements
- Long Stays
- Getting Married
- Local Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
Flight Information
Canadians have three gateways from which to choose for direct, non-stop flights to the Guadeloupe Islands. Connections are available from most Canadian cities through these gateways; additional connections are available through Miami to Guadeloupe.
From Montreal (flight duration approximately 4 hours, 45 minutes):
- Air Canada offers year-round service, up to 6 weekly non-stop flights
- Air Transat offers year-round flights, up to 3 weekly non-stop flights
- Air France offers direct flights, during winter (from December to March) up to 2 weekly non-stop flights
From Quebec City (flight duration approximately 5 hours):
- *NEW – Air Canada will offer a Thursday, direct nonstop flight from December 17, 2026 through to April 8, 2027.
- Air Transat will offer a Wednesday, direct nonstop flight from December 16, 2026 through to March 24, 2027.
From Toronto (flight duration approximately 5 hours):
- Air Canada offers a weekly seasonal, direct nonstop flight beginning in December through to April
Entry Requirements for Canadians
Canadian citizens may enter without a visa for stays of up to three months, however a valid passport is required (The traveller’s passport must be valid for three months after the return date).
Entry Requirements for LongStays
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a visa for a longer stay would be required. Learn More.
Entry or exit taxes: There are no entry or exit taxes for visitors arriving and departing by air or cruise.
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Please remember to see the Quick Facts section above for information on languages spoken, banking information, currency, weather, driving requirements, and more.
Please see the Medical tab for information on hospitals and pharmacies. If you are a diver, information on Guadeloupe Islands’ hyperbaric chamber is included.
Here is additional information that you may require when planning a longer stay away:
Entry Requirements for Long Stays
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a visa for a longer stay would be required. Learn More.
Authorization must be requested before your initial stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted on a case-by-case basis. Learn More.
Pet Policy
Please remember to check with both your airline and your long stay residence, to ensure you are familiar with their pet policies and procedures for transportation.
On arrival in Guadeloupe, you must present your pet’s medical information which would be provided by your own veterinarian in Canada. Your pet’s electronic chip number must be noted along with your pet’s vaccinations (including rabies) which must be up to date.
Groceries
There are supermarkets stocked with both French imports and local products. Brands like Carrefour, Super U, Leader Price and Casino are available. Specialty food stores like Bakeries and gourmet shops for local preserves etc are also available. Visitors are encouraged to explore the wonderful local markets:
Marché de Pointe-à-Pitre – The largest and most famous market. Find fruits, vegetables, spices, Creole snacks, and handmade goods.
Marché de Basse-Terre – Known for its local spices, fresh fish, and Creole ingredients.
Sainte-Anne Market – Ideal for fresh tropical fruits, rum, and artisan products.
Phone Plans & Internet
Orange Caraibes offers Internet coverage (Fiber, ADSL and 4G LTE) across the islands.
Orange Guadeloupe (Orange Caraibe), SFR Guadeloupe, Digicel Guadeloupe and LaPoste Caraîbe Mobile all offer strong coverage and data speeds popular for both locals and visits. There are plans that offer roam-free options.
Getting Married
To get married in the Guadeloupe Islands, at least one partner (or a parent) must have lived in the chosen town for at least 1 month before the ceremony. You’ll need a valid passport, a recent full birth certificate (with apostille and sworn translation if foreign), proof of residence, witness information, and for foreigners, a certificate of no impediment (or certificate of custom). The marriage banns are published for 10 days, and both partners must attend an interview if requested.
Beyond the paperwork, the Guadeloupe islands provide an idyllic backdrop for your wedding, with reception venues available through event agencies or hotels to create a truly unforgettable celebration.
Cultural/Annual Events
The Guadeloupe Islands have many wonderful events such as carnivals, music festivals, and food festivals throughout the year.
*We have added a list of all government holidays (please note the days when restaurants and stores would be closed – ie Christmas Day (stores & independent restaurants will be closed)
Public and Government Holidays observed throughout the year:
(Please note that on holidays, most stores remain open at least until midday however, restaurants are open. Government-run establishments are closed on all of the holidays listed below.)
Please note: Supermarkets, banks and pharmacies are closed each Sunday afternoon. Restaurants remain open.
2026 Annual Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1)
Carnival days (includes Carnival Monday, Mardi Gras and Ash Wednesday) (Monday through Wednesday, February 16 to 18)
Mid-Lent (Thursday, March 12)
Good Friday (Friday, April 3)
Easter Monday (Monday, April 6)
Labour Day (Friday, May 1)
Victory Day (Friday, May 8) (this holiday commemorates the end of WWII in Europe)
Ascension Day (Thursday, May 14)
Whit Monday (Monday, May 25)
Abolition Day (Wednesday, May 27)
National Day/Bastille Day (Tuesday, July 14)
Assumption Day (Saturday, August 15)
All Saints’ Day (Sunday, November 1)
Armistice Day (Wednesday, November 11)
Christmas Day (Friday, December 25)
Medical & Dental Information
General healthcare facilities in Guadeloupe are very good. The standard of health service hospitals and GP practices is equivalent to mainland France. Specialist treatment is also available. Most medical professionals speak French only, with limited English support. Bring a translator app if you are not fluent in French.
Hospitals:
Université Hospital Centre (CHU), Les Abymes
Phone: +590 590 89 10 10
Services include: 24-hour emergency room; a wide range of specialities and a hyperbaric chamber for decompression sickness
Hôpital Général Joseph-Ricou
Centre Hospitalier de Basse‑Terre (CHR)
Other hospitals are located in Capesterre-Belle-Eau, Pointe-Noire, Bouillante, Sant-Claude and Grand-Bourg.
Private Clinics & Polyclinics :
Les Eaux Claires Clinic in Baie‑Mahault
Polyclinics located in places like Le Gosier, Le Moule, Trois‑Rivières, Gourbeyre, Saint‑Claude, and Grand‑Bourg
Polyclinic of Guadeloupe at Morne Jolivière
Emergency Dental Care Services:
On Sundays and holidays, a rotating “dentist on duty” system is in place throughout Guadeloupe. To find the available dentist, call 118 418 and say “SOIGNER.” Be aware this is a paid service (~0.80 €/min + call cost).
Additionally, the departmental dental council coordinates duty dentists and services via hospital clinics and private practitioners on rotation
Cabinet Dentaire Le Papillon, Baie-Mahault
PH : +590 590 91 20 86
Cabinet Dentaire du Dr. Cane, Petit-Bourg
PH : +590 590 26 29 90
Cabinet Floral Dental, Les Abymes
PH : +33 6 30 02 30 65
Hygident Colin, Petit-Bourg
PH : +590 590 54 03 30
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is a hyperbaric chamber. It is available at the main hospital of Université Hospital Centre (CHU) of Pointe‑à‑Pitre / Les Abymes.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from Canada.
Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport (Guadeloupe Maryse Condé International Airport) (PTP): Learn More
Airport Services:
The following services are available:
- Accessible toilets located in the check-in, boarding, and arrivals areas.
- Elevators: Includes an elevator in the baggage claim area and both central and panoramic lifts outside the terminals—all wheelchair accessible.
- Public telephones are at lower height for accessibility.
- Parking: designated spaces with direct access to the terminal; additional short-stay (“dépose-minute”) spots:
Pointe-à-Pitre Port
Wheelchair Accessibility (Accès PMR): The port infrastructure is designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility. This includes ramps, level access, and other PMR-friendly facilities.
Modern Infrastructure: The cruise terminal is equipped with:
- Clear signage and information desks
- Elevators and escalators for seamless movement between levels
- The terminal is walking distance to the city center of Pointe -à-Pitre
Connectivity & Amenities:
- Free Wi‑Fi available at the terminals
- Proximity to the town center and available transfers—useful for accessible onward travel
Transportation
Antilles Transports Handicapés (ATHS)
Grière Transport (taxi service) authorized to carry passengers in wheelchairs and has drivers certified in emergency first aid.
Activities
Guadeloupe Explor
- Phone: +590 690 268 111
- Email: info@guadeloupe-explor.com
- Website: guadeloupe-explor.com
- Note: Wheelchair-accessible vehicles available upon request.
Rental of Equipment:
If visitors prefer not to travel with their own wheelchair or mobility aids, several companies in Guadeloupe offer rentals of wheelchairs, electric scooters, and other equipment, with delivery available in most areas. For accessibility details at hotels, please check each hotel’s website directly.
Equipment Rental – Contacts
Santé Hygiène Médical – Les Abymes
- Phone: 09 74 56 90 16
- Email: contact@sante-hygiene-medical.com
- Website: sante-hygiene-medical.com
Distri Club Médical – Les Abymes
- Phone: +590 590 83 45 96
- Email: contact@districlubmedical.com
- Website: districlubmedical.com
Grippon Médical Services – Morne-à-l’Eau
- Email: contact@grippon-medical-services.fr
- Website: grippon-medical-services.fr
Antigua Medical Caraïbes – Baie-Mahault
- Phone: 05 90 86 59 10 / 06 90 58 88 30
- Email: contact@antiguamedicalcaraibes.com
- Website: antiguamedicalcaraibes.com
Sustainability
Sustainability Commitment
With exceptional natural heritage and a high rate of endemism, the Guadeloupe Archipelago has been classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1992 — a designation that reflects the remarkable depth and diversity of its ecosystems, both on land and at sea.
At the heart of this protected territory stands the Guadeloupe National Park, the first national park established in the French Overseas Territories. Founded in 1989, the park encompasses a rare combination of terrestrial and marine environments, all emblematic of the richness and variety of tropical ecosystems. Environmental stewardship has long been a defining priority for Guadeloupe’s authorities: 2,150 hectares fall under the protection of the Conservatoire du Littoral, while 38,223 hectares are managed by the National Forestry Office. The island also boasts more than 40 years of dedicated sea turtle protection, alongside ongoing awareness campaigns, coastal clean-up initiatives, and a wide range of conservation programs. In 2021, this commitment was further strengthened with the creation of the first Regional Biodiversity Observatory of the Islands of Guadeloupe (ORB-IG), established to monitor, document, and promote knowledge of the archipelago’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Beyond the main islands, two of Guadeloupe’s outer islands offer remarkable natural experiences for visitors seeking something truly off the beaten path. On La Désirade, the Desert Botanical Garden spans 5,000 m² and stands as the largest botanical garden of its kind in the entire Caribbean. Home to more than 800 species of cacti and succulent plants gathered from every continent, the garden also plays an active conservation role: members of the Association des Cartophiles des Antilles are working to save and reintroduce the “Tête à l’anglais” cactus — endemic to the island and currently endangered — back into its natural habitat. Educational and awareness tours are available for visitors wishing to learn more about this unique desert ecosystem in the heart of the tropics.
Just one hour from Saint-François, the island of Petite-Terre offers an entirely different but equally compelling experience. This protected nature reserve is a recognized biodiversity hotspot, accessible exclusively by permitted pleasure boats, with visitor numbers strictly limited to preserve its pristine environment. For those fortunate enough to make the journey, Petite-Terre rewards with untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a profound sense of discovery that few destinations in the Caribbean can match.
