The active volcano of the Soufrière is at the heart of Guadeloupe’s National Park, and is the highest peak of the island. Discover the images of the active hike that leads to it, filled with beauty and surprises! Follow the guide !
1. Dive into the tropical forest
Guadeloupe’s National Park, in the south of Basse-Terre, houses the fascinating and mysterious Soufrière, the island’s only volcano. Usually draped in heavy clouds, the “Old Lady” is naked for the first time. To get to the top, at 4812 feet above the ground, there is only one hiking trail, which leaves from Saint Claude. On the way, the temperature changes and the flora morphs. Sulphur fumaroles fill my nostrils while my ears are treated with the trickling sounds of small waterfalls. As I walk along the path, I spot more and more colorful wildflowers. The mist dissipates. I walk at my own pace, immersing myself in this magical biodiversity. From the top, I gaze at the craters, under a thin rain. Suddenly, the blue sky is back, and I am left with panoramic views of the Saintes, Marie-Galante, Dominica, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. Breathtaking !
Soufrière Hiking (3h for the sportive - 4h/5h for a normal walk) - Départure from Saint Claude (départementale 11) - follow the signs "Sentier de la Soufrière" through les Bains Jaunes - then take the "la Trace du Pas-du-Roy" road who goes to the la Savanne parking in Mulets - then take the "chemin des Dames" road (1h15) - and walk to the top (1467m).
2. Enjoy a natural spa at the foot of a volcano
The natural pool of the Bains Jaunes, at the bottom of the Soufrière, offers a relaxing end to the hike back from the top of the volcano. The water is at 90 degrees F and very soothing for my muscles. A must after such a physical adventure!
3. Go from sea to mountain in under 40 minutes
After spending the morning in the forest, I go to the Rocroy beach in Vieux-Habitants. Only 40 minutes from the Soufrière, I find myself on the terrasse of the Rocroy Zouk’afé. This friendly Caribbean hut always offers fresh fish for lunch, served with sweet potato and yam gratin.
Rocroy Zouk'afé, Plage Simaho, Bourg, 971119 Vieux-Habitants
Where is the Soufrière volcano ?
From Pointe-À-Pitre : take the road nationale 1 ou 2 direction Saint-Claude/Basse-Terre.
From Bouillante : take the road la traversée (D23) who cross the National Park of Guadeloupe.
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