Guadeloupe is far more than just Caribbean beaches and a volcano. It is home to an impressive number of cascades and waterfalls that deserve to be admired. To discover the essentials, we present you with our selection of the most beautiful waterfalls to see when traveling to Guadeloupe.  

1. Carbet Falls

Located in Capesterre-Belle-Eau and nestled in an enchanting setting at the foot of La Soufrière volcano, the Carbet Falls constitute the 3 most iconic waterfalls of Guadeloupe. According to legend, Christopher Columbus spotted the first two falls from the shore when he landed in Guadeloupe in November 1493. 

At 115 m high, the first Carbet fall is the tallest of the three cascades. You can reach it by undertaking a strenuous hike of 3 to 4 hours round-trip. 

The second fall, at 110 m high, is the most accessible. It can be reached after just 20 minutes of walking (40 minutes round-trip) along a well-maintained path that is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Note that due to its developed access, there is a fee to enter.

Finally, the third fall is considered the wildest. However, due to a rockslide, access to it (the last section of the trail specifically) has been prohibited by municipal order since 2008.

How to get there? To reach Carbet Falls, the simplest way is to go to the Carbet Falls visitor center where you can park your car in a secure parking lot.

Swimming: only at the first fall.

2. Écrevisses Waterfall

The Écrevisses Waterfall is without a doubt the most popular and most touristy waterfall in Guadeloupe. And for good reason—it is the most easily accessible cascade. No need to plan a lengthy hike; just a 5-minute walk on a well-maintained trail gets you to the spectacle. It is therefore ideal for travelers with young children and people with reduced mobility.

Located on Basse-Terrethis small 10-meter waterfall is a hit with families. It is the perfect place to picnic and cool off with a refreshing swim. Note that given its popularity, we recommend arriving very early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

How to get there? The parking area for the Écrevisses Waterfall is located on the Traversée Road (also called the "mamelles road"), a route well worth a detour in itself.

Swimming: yes.

3. Saut des Trois Cornes

Located in the northeast of Basse-Terre on the municipality of Sainte-Rose, the Saut des Trois Cornes is one of Guadeloupe's essential natural gems. As its name suggests, it is a succession of 3 waterfalls approximately 15 meters high. 

The trail takes 2 to 3 hours to complete depending on your fitness level. Although it is not considered difficult, you do need to descend a steep slope to reach the waterfall, which you must then climb back up to return. Throughout the hike, you can learn more about the emblematic trees of the rainforest thanks to informational panels installed by the National Forests Office.

Our tip: Since the waterfall is accessible from the Sofaïa sulfurous baths parking area, we recommend ending your hike on a high note by relaxing in these hot springs.

How to get there? The hike departs from the Sofaïa sulfurous baths parking area in Sainte-Rose.

Swimming: there are no pools for swimming, but it is possible to cool off in the river. Be careful not to go during rain or if there is a risk of flooding!

4. Saut de la Lézarde

Located in the heart of the rainforest of the municipality of Petit-Bourg, the Saut de la Lézarde is among Guadeloupe's most beautiful waterfalls. Characterized by a 50-meter diameter basin and a 12-meter-high fall, the Saut de la Lézarde impresses with its exceptional natural environment.

Officially, access is closed to the public, but many tourists and locals brave the ban to enjoy the enchanting setting of this waterfall. If you decide to go, it is at your own risk. Note that it is strongly discouraged to attempt the adventure during wet weather due to unmarked and extremely slippery trails. Plan for approximately 1 hour round-trip walk.

How to get there? Access to Saut de la Lézarde is via La Glacière Road at the level of Vernou restaurant, an abandoned restaurant decorated with street art.

Swimming: yes in dry conditions and being careful not to approach the waterfall.

5. Saut d'Acomat

The Saut d'Acomat is a 12-meter-high waterfall located in the Les Plaines area, in the heights of the charming municipality of Pointe-Noire. Composed of a basin with turquoise water that contrasts perfectly with lush vegetation and rocks, the Saut d'Acomat waterfall is striking in its beauty. 

The trail leading to the waterfall is not very long (30 minutes round-trip walk) and relatively easy. Note, however, that the path can be very slippery, and it is better to wear good hiking shoes, especially for the descent. 

Warning! Swimming is often discouraged at Saut d'Acomat due to dangerous currents and the presence of whirlpools in the water that can pose a drowning risk. For this reason, jumping and diving are prohibited. If you wish to swim, stay as far away as possible from the waterfall. 

How to get there? Head toward Acomat and turn right at the small chapel before parking your car at the bottom of the road.

Swimming: yes but being careful not to approach the foot of the waterfall.

6. Moreau Falls

Head to the charming municipality of Goyave to discover the magnificent Moreau Falls. In total, there are 4 cascades (including one over 100 meters) to admire along a marked hiking trail in the heart of the rainforest.

Due to several river crossings, steep pathways, and a few rope passages, the trail is better suited for hikers in good physical condition and should only be undertaken in dry weather. Plan for approximately 4 hours of round-trip walking to complete the entire route.

Note: Access to the falls is often closed due to rockslides, so be sure to check trail conditions beforehand.

How to get there? The hike to Moreau Falls departs from the Douville neighborhood in Goyave. You will find a parking area at the end of the forest road, from which the trail begins.

Swimming: Yes except at the 4th fall

7. Saut de Bras-de-Fort

The Saut Bras-de-Fort is among Guadeloupe's least frequented waterfalls. It is therefore the ideal place to get away from the crowds. Although it is not the most impressive waterfall on the island, this cascade is worth a visit simply for the variety of landscapes encountered. Indeed, the trail (relatively easy to access) is divided into several sections: you will walk alongside banana plantations before venturing into the forest and finally following the river upstream. 

After 30 minutes of walking, you will arrive at the waterfall. It features a large basin where you can cool off. You can also climb a rock formation to discover another elevated basin that serves as a natural jacuzzi.

How to get there? The Saut de Bras du Fort is located on the road leading to Moreau Falls in Goyave. You will find a parking area before starting your hike. Be sure to use a map to orient yourself before you set off.

Swimming: yes.

8. Galion Waterfall

The Galion Waterfall is located at the foot of La Soufrière at 900 meters elevation, in the municipality of Saint-Claude. Very seldom visited by tourists, this waterfall offers a unique experience: having a cascade virtually to yourself while enjoying pristine nature. Standing 40 meters high, the Galion Waterfall is distinguished by its basin with reddish-ochre colored water.

Being quite shallow, its basin is not suitable for swimming. For that, you can always finish your journey on the return path at the Yellow Baths Basin, which serves as the starting point for the trail.

Although considered moderate, this hike requires you to negotiate 2 vertical rope passages. It is best not to be afraid of heights and to be in good physical condition! Plan for just over 2 hours of round-trip walking.

How to get there? To reach the Galion Waterfall, go to the Yellow Baths parking area where you can take the Roy Pass trail.

Swimming: no.

Safety guidelines for visiting Guadeloupe's waterfalls: Regardless of which waterfall interests you, be sure to plan your trip in advance and never venture out during rain. Indeed, trails leading to waterfalls can be particularly dangerous during or after heavy rain, particularly due to flood risks.

Here are the basic rules for enjoying the sites safely:

• Always check the weather forecast before you leave to ensure you hike only in dry conditions;

• Wear quality hiking shoes (closed with non-slip soles);

• Bring insect repellent, a rain jacket, sun protection (caps, sunscreen...), a flashlight, and a first-aid kit;

• Prioritize hikes before 2 p.m. (darkness falls quickly);

• Alert your loved ones to your itinerary;

• Do not hike alone;

• Bring plenty of water and food;

• Fully charge your phone before leaving;

• If you notice the water becoming cloudy and filling with leaves and branches, turn back as this can indicate a sudden rise in water levels.

For more information on safety guidelines and trail conditions, you can contact the Guadeloupe National Park, the National Forests Office. You can also find more information on trail conditions at guadeloupe-info.com.