This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spans more than 210 square kilometres (81 sq. miles) of lush rainforest on Basse-Terre, threaded with crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls (especially the dramatic three-tiered Chutes du Carbet), hot springs such as Bains Jaunes and Bains Sofaïa, wild beaches (some of which shelter nesting sea turtles), and mangrove swamps ideal for kayaking. Its centrepiece is La Soufrière (above), an active volcano rising 1,467 metres (4,813 feet), where activity takes the form of fumaroles spewing fumes of sulphur (soufre in French, hence the volcano´s name) and a steaming caldera rather than explosive eruptions.
The park is surprisingly accessible, with well-maintained hiking trails, marked viewpoints, visitor information areas, roadside lookouts, picnic spots, and parking near many major attractions. Some routes are gentle walks, while others — including the climb to La Soufrière — can be muddy and demanding in wet weather. Swimming is possible at certain black- and golden-sand beaches along the park’s fringes and in some calmer river pools, though Atlantic currents can be strong in places and sea conditions should always be checked locally.
Read more in my post Guadeloupe and 8 of its Top Highlights.
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