If Guadeloupe was once called “l’île aux belles eaux” (the island of beautiful waters) by the Amerindians, it’s quite simply because it’s home to such beautiful waterfalls, cascades and rivers.
Most of the waterfalls are easily accessible from the roadside, while others require a walk, giving you the opportunity to discover the island’s luxuriant nature.
The best-known waterfall is the Carbet, with 3 jumps in succession. But you’ll see which other waterfalls in Guadeloupe are worth a visit.
Le Saut d’Acomat
Located just a few kilometers from Pointe-Noire, take a fairly steep path for 20 minutes to reach Saut d’Acomat. The view is breathtaking: the waterfall is 12 meters high and plunges into a wide, shallow, emerald-green natural pool. Don’t forget your bathing suit. It’s a refreshing swim. It’s such a beautiful spot that you can easily spend the day here and have a picnic.
Le Saut de la Lézarde
Saut de la Lézarde is located in the heart of Basse-Terre, on the heights of Petit-Bourg, in Vernou. The path to get there is unmarked, but well known, so you won’t have any trouble reaching this 10-meter-high waterfall. A 30-minute walk will get you there. Our tip: to make the most of the beautiful light, go to Saut de la Lézarde around midday. As one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Guadeloupe, it can get quite crowded.
The second Chute du Carbet
There are 3 of them, each one as majestic as the next. They are located in the Guadeloupe National Park, at the foot of the Soufrière volcano. These 3 waterfalls are said to have been mentioned in Christopher Columbus’s notebooks in 1493.
The first is the highest at 115 metres. It’s a 3-hour walk there and back.
It’s the 2ᵉ waterfall that interests us, since it’s 110 meters high, but is really more accessible (which also makes it very touristy). The path you’ll need to take is very well marked and laid out. In just 30 minutes of walking, you can enjoy the extraordinary spectacle offered by one of Guadeloupe’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Moreau Falls
From Goyave, take the Route Forestière de Douville, then go as far as the Route de Moreau. You’ll come to a parking area reserved for hikers. The walk to Chutes de Moreau takes you through a beautiful river winding through dense tropical forest. Enjoy a refreshing moment at the falls.
La Cascade aux Écrevisses
One of the most accessible waterfalls in Guadeloupe, Cascade aux Écrevisses is also one of the most popular. It’s located just off the Route de la Traversée in Basse-Terre, on the way to Parc des Mamelles. You can’t miss it, as it’s very well signposted. There’s a parking lot on site, which you’ll easily see (many cars are usually parked there).
You’ll love stopping here for a refreshing break. An easily accessible path takes you to the Cascade aux Écrevisses in just 5 minutes. The path is even suitable for people with reduced mobility.
The pool at the foot of the waterfall is ideal for a swim. There’s even a landscaped area, perfect for a picnic.
La Cascade Paradis
Cascade Paradis, located in Vieux-Habitants, is one of the island’s hidden gems. To find it, all you have to do is follow the Vieux-Habitants river up a steep path through lush countryside. We recommend parking at La Grivelière (well worth a visit). The path leads to Ravine Paradis, where you’ll find Cascade Paradis.
It has a very special atmosphere, thanks to its basin surrounded by basalt organs. You’ll see the waterfall after several river crossings, on your right, well out of sight. Come around midday for the best light.
La Chute de Bras-de-Fort
Another waterfall in Goyave, in addition to Chute de Moreau, is Bras-de-Fort. To find it, take the trail through the heart of the rainforest. You’ll end your walk in the riverbed. Allow around 1 hour to reach the Bras-de-Fort waterfall.
Don’t miss a dip in the Bassin Bleu de Goyave, close to the waterfalls. The setting is sublime, as the pool is surrounded by creepers and lush vegetation. A popular spot with locals at weekends.
Chute du Galion
Chute du Galion is located in Saint-Claude, south of Basse-Terre. It’s a popular destination for hikers, as the waterfall is the starting point for several itineraries (including one to La Soufrière).
Follow the Pas du Roy trail to reach the Chute du Galion. The walk takes about 1 hour and the end is quite tough, but hang in there. The sublime 40-meter-high waterfall will soon make you forget your efforts.
Le Saut des Trois Cornes in Sainte-Rose
The Saut des Trois Cornes offers not only a magnificent 2.5-hour hike, but also a view of a unique waterfall. But “shh!” You’ll understand better once you get there. You’ll have the chance to swim under the waterfall’s spray. Take a picnic, as this is an ideal spot for a refreshing break.
Guadeloupe has no shortage of waterfalls and rivers. We’ve put together a selection that we particularly like.
Every Guadeloupe lover has a favorite waterfall. What’s yours?
