The best time to visit Guadeloupe

Like the rest of the Caribbean, Guadeloupe's tropical climate means that the dry season begins in November. It lasts until April, giving the island a pleasant atmosphere. Temperatures are between 25°C and 30°C, with water temperatures hovering around 26°C.

If you're wondering when to go to Guadeloupe to enjoy the island's idyllic beaches and explore its verdant nature, then this is the best time of year for you. The reputation of Guadeloupe's beaches is second to none and, wherever you go, you'll be able to put your towel down on long stretches of white sand bordered by crystal-clear waters.

Sainte-Anne, however, is the place to be if you're looking for a relaxing break in a picture-postcard landscape. From La Caravelle beach to Le Bourg and Bois Jolan, sit back and relax in the shade of a coconut palm before taking a refreshing dip in the sea.

A great season for sailing

If you're a keen sailor and want to know when to head off to Guadeloupe to sail under the trade winds, winter is particularly recommended. The winds blow steadily, making it ideal for exploring the village of Gros-Cap on Terre-de-Bas in the Saintes archipelago or the Gueule Grand Gouffre on Marie-Galante.

As the dry season draws to a close and before the low season begins, Guadeloupe's climate sees its temperatures rise. Rainfall is more frequent, but with an average of eight hours of sunshine a day, your relaxation programme will be completely undisturbed. It's also the ideal time of year in Guadeloupe to discover the island's natural treasures.

The Deshaies Botanical Garden is the perfect place to see the flowers of the Caribbean world in full bloom. The explosions of colour from the bougainvilleas and hibiscus will punctuate your walk among the cheese trees, breadfruit trees, baobabs and talipots.

If you're a keen walker and you're wondering when to leave Guadeloupe for a few hikes on the slopes of La Soufrière, this is the right time.

To discover vegetation typical of the tropical climate, stop off in the dense forest of the Mamelles park, where the cool waters of the Écrevisses waterfall await you.

Guadeloupe's tropical climate imposes its hot temperatures during the period from July to October. This is the island's low season, when rainfall takes the form of passing thunderstorms, cooling the atmosphere. With water temperatures hovering around 30°C, your stay here will be ideal for swimming, diving and snorkelling.

Off the coast of Bouillante, the protected waters of the Cousteau reserve will reveal populations of multicoloured tropical fish, coral in a variety of shapes and colours, and even rays and dolphins.

You can also head for the island of Désirade, a wild jewel whose coral reef is home to a colourful array of flora and fauna.

A visit to Pointe-à-Pitre is also a must during the low season. Take the time to stroll through the Saint-Antoine market and discover the spices that flavour traditional dishes. Exotic fruits, fragrant vanilla pods and local specialities offer a colourful spectacle that is sure to awaken your senses.

When should you visit Guadeloupe? The answer is simple: all year round! Thanks to its tropical climate, Guadeloupe offers sunny, relaxing breaks in both the low and high seasons. Bathing, diving, sailing or discovering the natural and cultural heritage: to choose the best time to go to Guadeloupe, follow your desires!