Spending Christmas in Guadeloupe

Spending Christmas in Guadeloupe: sunshine, warmth, and traditions

Imagine spending Christmas Eve with your feet in the sand, the sun setting over a turquoise lagoon, and your own vehicle ready to take you anywhere you want to go in the archipelago... That's what Guadeloupe has to offer in December. With its Creole traditions and total freedom to explore at your own pace, this destination appeals to travelers looking for a unique Christmas experience.

Why choose Guadeloupe for Christmas?

Exceptional weather in December

In December, the archipelago enters its dry season: skies are often clear, daily temperatures hover around 77 to 86°F, and the sea is around 81°F. Thanks to this climate, you'll avoid heavy rains and be able to enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.

The local atmosphere of the holiday season

When France shivers, Guadeloupe lights up. Between Christmas markets, Creole songs called "chanté Nwèl," and tables laden with local delicacies, you'll experience an authentic and warm celebration. Chanté Nwel are Christmas carols adapted into Creole and set to local rhythms, such as drums, biguines, and gwo-ka. Throughout the period leading up to December 25, friends and family gather in public squares and in front of houses to put on warm and original musical performances. It must be said that Christmas carols arranged to zouk music are sure to get you moving and quickly invite you to dance. A complete change of scenery for visitors from mainland France! Beyond the musical aspect, Guadeloupean chanté nwel is worthy of the Christmas spirit. Above all, it is a time for conviviality, good humor, and sharing.

Nwel kakado of Vieux-Habitants

Among the many Christmas festivities is the nwel kakado in the coastal village of Vieux-Habitants in Basse-Terre. This festival is probably the most famous of the island, it begins on the 1st Friday of Advent. During the whole period before Christmas, there are various animations, rituals, illuminations, election of the Queen of the crib and, of course, a lot of nwel songs. The kakado comes from the name of a small river crayfish that was eaten during this time of the year by the old generations in the working classes. Since then, pork has replaced the crustacean !

Checklist: what to plan for a successful Christmas in Guadeloupe

• Swimsuit, light T-shirts, shorts (yes, Christmas is tropical).

• Walking shoes for hikes in the forest or to La Soufrière.

• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.

• Mosquito repellent (for evenings or wooded areas).

• Light jacket or windbreaker for trade winds or at the summit.

• Book a car online through the agency, check the options (driver, mileage, insurance).

• List of excursions or satellite islands: Les Saintes, Marie-Galante.

• Slightly higher budget: high season + car rental.