December in Guadeloupe, a good month to travel ?
Guadeloupe in December: A Tropical Paradise for Winter Holidays
When December arrives, many of the world's destinations are decked out in their finest Christmas decorations, bustling markets and winter festivities. However, there's one corner of paradise where the palm trees still sway gently and the sun shines brightly: Guadeloupe.
The famous Porte d'Enfer (Gate of Hell) in Anse-Bertrand, Guadeloupe. @Credit: Canva Pro
The last month of the year is an excellent time to visit the archipelago. It's not for nothing that many tourists from all over the world flock to this destination at this time of year. Take advantage of this time of year to spend the festive season in a festive atmosphere!
Activities & events for visiting Guadeloupe in December
End-of-year events & local culture
From early December, the tradition of Kakadò / Chanté Nwèl begins: Creole Christmas carols, a festive atmosphere, shared meals, and night markets.
The Christmas market in Pointe-à-Pitre or Le Gosier and Christmas & New Year's Eve celebrations: local crafts, lights, concerts, market.
Don't miss the atmosphere: illuminated houses, Creole rhythms, traditional songs; an authentic moment for an "end of year" trip.
Water sports & relaxation
The sea is warm (~81°F) in December, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking.
For the more adventurous: kitesurfing, windsurfing, jet skiing, or catamaran excursions on Grande-Terre.
Enjoy the beaches in a more relaxed way: fewer crowds, soft end-of-year light, ideal for photos or moments of calm.
A few places to explore in Guadeloupe in
As a bonus, here are some road trip ideas for Guadeloupe.
Jardin Botanique
For a more peaceful stroll, head to the northwest coast of Basse-Terre, to the Deshaies Botanical Garden, an enchanting place created on the former property of Coluche. December is one of the best months to see tropical flowers in full bloom: hibiscus, bougainvillea, balisiers, orchids, and a multitude of colorful birds such as hummingbirds.
📍Deshaies
La Soufrière volcano
Nicknamed "the old lady," rises to 1,467 meters. At this time of year, the temperature is mild and visibility is often clear, offering a panoramic view of Guadeloupe and its neighboring islands. The hike to the summit, starting from Saint-Claude, is a must for travelers seeking adventure.
📍Saint-Claude
The Point of Castles
The coastal trails of Grande-Terre, such as the Porte d’Enfer trail in Anse-Bertrand or the Pointe des Châteaux trail in Saint-François, offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. In December, temperatures are ideal for hiking along the coast without suffering from intense heat.
📍Saint-François
🍉 Seasonal fruits and vegetables in December
Local pineapple: harvested between November and March, it is particularly tasty in December. Citrus fruits: local oranges and mandarins are in season towards the end of the year. Pink guavas are still available and of good quality. Apple figs (small local bananas): Small and very sweet, apple figs are a staple of Creole markets. Star fruit: Available until February, star fruit is appealing for its star shape and sweet-tart taste. Liana apples: Very fragrant and slightly tart, liana apples add flavor to desserts, yogurts, and cocktails. Cowpeas: A typical Christmas product! Harvested in December, they are used in the preparation of traditional cowpea rice, a staple dish of Guadeloupean celebrations. Yams: In December, they are eaten boiled, mashed, or au gratin, accompanied by meat, fish, or vegetables in sauce.
🎒What should you pack for Guadeloupe?
When traveling to Guadeloupe in November, don't forget to pack the following essentials in your luggage:
Sunglasses to protect you from intense UV rays.
Ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine ecosystem.
A hat to protect you from the sun.
Hiking shoes to explore the island's trails.
Insect repellent to protect you from bugs.
🏝️ When is the best time to visit Guadeloupe?
The best time to visit Guadeloupe is between January and April. During these months, the climate is dry, sunny, and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 30°C. It is the ideal season to enjoy the beaches, explore the islands, and organize a road trip under the sun.
🌦️ Which month is the rainiest in Guadeloupe?
The rainiest month in Guadeloupe is usually September, followed by October. These months belong to the wet season, marked by short but intense tropical showers. If you want to avoid the rain, choose the months of February to April, which are drier and more conducive to outdoor activities.
☀️ When is the dry season in Guadeloupe?
The dry season, known locally as Lent, lasts from December to May. The sun shines brightly, rainfall is rare, and the heat is pleasant. This is the most popular time to visit Guadeloupe, ideal for beach vacations, excursions, and exploring the turquoise lagoons.
💸 What is the cheapest month to visit Guadeloupe?
The cheapest months to visit Guadeloupe are September, October, and November. During these low season periods, flights and accommodation are up to 30% cheaper than in winter. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the island without the crowds and at a lower cost, while still enjoying pleasant weather.
👗 How should you dress in Guadeloupe depending on the season?
In Guadeloupe, opt for light, breathable clothing all year round. In the dry season, choose cotton or linen. In the wet season, add a light raincoat for showers. Don't forget your swimsuits, comfortable shoes for walking, and effective sun protection.
💰 When should you book your trip to get the best prices?
To travel to Guadeloupe at the best price, it is advisable to book between two and three months in advance. Flight and accommodation prices are generally lower in the low season, between September and November. By planning ahead, you can take advantage of better deals and a wider choice for your stay under the Guadeloupean sun.
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