CaribbeanBasse-TerreGuadeloupe eSIM and Travel Guide: Stay Connected on the Butterfly Island
Guadeloupe is a French overseas department in the Eastern Caribbean, shaped like a butterfly with two wings: the flat, sugarcane Grande-Terre and the volcanic, rainforest-covered Basse-Terre. As an integral part of France and therefore the European Union, EU Roam Like At Home applies to EU SIMs. The Euro is the currency and French standards apply throughout. Orange Caraibe is the primary operator, with SFR Caraibe and Free Caraibe as solid alternatives. A Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM activates before you fly and connects to the Orange Caraibe network at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport.
Key Takeaways
- EU Roam Like At Home applies in Guadeloupe: EU SIMs work at no extra charge. For non-EU travellers a Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM on Orange Caraibe is the most convenient pre-paid data option.
- Guadeloupe uses the Euro and French standards. All French norms apply: driving licences, product labelling, food standards and emergency numbers (15, 17, 18, 112).
- Basse-Terre's La Soufriere volcano, Carbet Falls and the Guadeloupe National Park are among the most spectacular natural environments in the Caribbean. Signal is good at trailheads and drops in dense forest.
- Note: SIM cards are not sold at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport (PTP). The nearest SIM card shops are at the Milénis shopping centre a short drive away. A Roamix eSIM activated before departure avoids this entirely.
- Guadeloupe's outer islands, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) and La Desirade, require ferries. They have mobile coverage in their main villages but some coastlines and hiking routes are off-grid.
Quick Facts
Guadeloupe Connectivity
Get a Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM and land connected at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport.
How to Stay Connected in Guadeloupe
Wi-Fi quality in Guadeloupe is good at mid-range and upmarket hotels in Gosier, Sainte-Anne and Pointe-a-Pitre. Smaller guesthouses (gites ruraux) in Basse-Terre and the outer islands may have slower connections. Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G in the main tourist areas is often faster than hotel Wi-Fi.
Option
Best For
Notes
RecommendedRoamix eSIM
Non-EU travellers and anyone wanting instant connectivity on landing without a detour to Milénis shopping centre
Activates before departure, connects to Orange Caraibe on landing at PTP without needing to visit a SIM card shop. Best choice for convenience.
EU SIM with Roam Like At Home
EU and EEA travellers with a home-carrier SIM
EU Roam Like At Home applies in Guadeloupe as a French overseas department and full EU member. Verify with your carrier that Guadeloupe is covered, as some EU carriers list it separately from metropolitan France.
Orange Caraibe, SFR or Free Caraibe physical SIM
Long-stay visitors wanting the lowest local rates
Available at operator stores in Milénis shopping centre and at Gosier shopping areas. Not available at the airport. Requires passport. French-language SIM registration process.
Hotel and guesthouse Wi-Fi
Evening use at your accommodation
Adequate in Gosier and Pointe-a-Pitre resorts. Variable in rural gites and outer island accommodation. Not suitable as primary connectivity for active travel.
For non-EU visitors a Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM on Orange Caraibe is the most practical solution, especially given the absence of SIM card sales at the airport. Activate at roamix.app before you fly and land ready to navigate, book ferries and explore.
Get connected the moment you land in Guadeloupe.
Get your Guadeloupe eSIMMobile Networks in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe has four mobile operators: Orange Caraibe (the primary network with the widest coverage and strongest rural reach), SFR Caraibe (strong second, especially in Grande-Terre), Free Caraibe (budget option, good in urban areas) and Digicel (primarily serving Creole-speaking communities). Orange Caraibe has the best combined coverage across both the main islands and the outer archipelago of Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Desirade. A Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM connects to Orange Caraibe for the most reliable all-island experience.
Market leader in Guadeloupe. Provides 4G and 5G in Pointe-a-Pitre, Gosier, Grande-Terre main towns, Basse-Terre and the outer islands. The best choice for travel to La Soufriere, Carbet Falls, Marie-Galante and Les Saintes.
Strong competitor in Grande-Terre and Pointe-a-Pitre. Good 4G speeds in urban areas. Coverage on Basse-Terre's interior and the outer islands is narrower than Orange.
Budget option with competitive pricing in Pointe-a-Pitre and main towns. Limited coverage on the outer islands and interior Basse-Terre. Good choice for Gosier beach holidays staying in the tourist corridor.
Primarily serves local communities, particularly in rural Grande-Terre and some outer island areas. Not recommended as a primary network for tourists.
Typical Speeds
Orange Caraibe 4G in Pointe-a-Pitre and Gosier delivers 30 to 150 Mbps. In Basse-Terre town and Saint-Claude near La Soufriere, expect 20 to 60 Mbps. Outer islands deliver 15 to 40 Mbps on 4G.
5G Status
5G is live via Orange Caraibe in Pointe-a-Pitre, Gosier and Les Abymes. Expanding to Basse-Terre and other major towns.
SIM cards are not available at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport (PTP). The nearest mobile operator shops are at Milénis shopping centre in Les Abymes, a 5-minute drive from the airport. Activating a Roamix eSIM before departure saves this detour entirely.
La Soufriere volcano summit trail (above 1,100 metres) and the deep Carbet Falls gorge have patchy signal. The Route de la Traversee through the Guadeloupe National Park rainforest interior has intermittent 4G. Download hiking maps offline at Saint-Claude before any summit attempt. Outer island ferry crossings have no signal.
Guadeloupe uses standard French and EU LTE bands. All modern unlocked smartphones work on Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G. The French Type E and Type A sockets are used; travellers from North America should bring adapters.
Data Usage Guide
Guadeloupe's urban areas have excellent 4G and emerging 5G. The main data preparation task is downloading offline maps and trail guides before heading into the national park or on to outer island ferries. Signal on La Soufriere summit trail is patchy and the ferry crossings to outer islands are entirely offline.
Download the La Soufriere summit trail GPS track, the Carbet Falls hiking route and all outer island maps offline in Pointe-a-Pitre or your hotel before any outdoor excursion.
Data by Activity
Light Use
4 GB
Beach holiday on Grande-Terre south coast (one week)
A Gosier or Sainte-Anne beach holiday with day trips and light streaming needs 4 GB comfortably.
Standard
8 GB
Full island explorer (Grande-Terre plus Basse-Terre plus outer islands)
Moving across all islands with regular navigation, ferry bookings, trail downloads, social media and restaurant research justifies 8 GB over two weeks.
Heavy Use
6 GB
Hiking and nature focused trip (La Soufriere, Carbet Falls, national park)
Download extensive offline maps and trail guides. Data needs are front-loaded before each hike. 6 GB covers preparation plus connectivity in towns between excursions.
Apps & Internet Freedom
Guadeloupe has a fully open internet as part of France and the EU. All apps including WhatsApp, Google, Instagram, FaceTime, YouTube and X work normally on a Roamix eSIM without any restrictions.
Guadeloupe has no internet censorship. French law governs the internet here; all mainstream apps and platforms are freely accessible.
Works fully. Widely used alongside standard French SMS.
Google Maps
Works fully. Cache offline maps for La Soufriere trail, Route de la Traversee and outer islands before hiking.
FaceTime
Works fully over 4G and hotel Wi-Fi.
Works fully. Guadeloupe's beaches and colonial Pointe-a-Pitre market are excellent social media content.
Uber
Uber does not operate in Guadeloupe. Use local taxis or the app-based local taxi service Kap or Eko.
Navibus
Navigation information for inter-island ferries operated by CTM Deher and L'Express des Iles.
Citymapper
Citymapper does not cover Guadeloupe. Use Google Maps for navigation.
How to Set Up a Guadeloupe eSIM
Install and activate your Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM before leaving home, particularly since no SIM cards are available at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport. Your eSIM connects to Orange Caraibe on landing.
All recent eSIM-compatible devices work in Guadeloupe. iPhone XS and newer, recent Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel 4 and newer are all compatible with Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G. Guadeloupe uses French Type E sockets and 230V power.
- 1
Purchase a Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM plan at roamix.app and receive the QR code by email.
- 2
Go to Settings, then Cellular or Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the QR code.
- 3
Set the Roamix eSIM as your data line; keep your home SIM for calls and texts if needed.
- 4
Enable data roaming on the Roamix eSIM in your cellular settings.
- 5
On landing at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport your eSIM connects to Orange Caraibe 4G or 5G automatically.
APN Note
APN is configured automatically by the Roamix profile. If data does not connect after landing, check Settings, Cellular, Cellular Data Network and confirm the APN matches your Roamix activation email.
Troubleshooting
If your eSIM does not connect, toggle Airplane Mode on and off. Go to Settings, Carrier and manually select Orange Caraibe if automatic selection fails. Contact Roamix support via in-app chat.
Get connected the moment you land in Guadeloupe.
Get your Guadeloupe eSIMArrival Checklist
Activate your Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM before departure. SIM cards are not available at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport; the nearest shop is Milénis shopping centre 5 minutes away.
Download offline Google Maps tiles for Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre, Marie-Galante and Les Saintes before travel.
Note French emergency numbers: 112 (general), 15 (SAMU ambulance), 17 (police), 18 (fire).
EU travellers: check whether your home EU SIM's roaming allowance covers Guadeloupe (it should as an EU overseas department, but some carriers exclude French Caribbean territories; verify with your provider).
Arrange car rental in advance: a car is essential for exploring Basse-Terre beyond the capital. Guadeloupe drives on the right.
How locals communicate
WhatsApp and standard French SMS are both widely used in Guadeloupe. French-style communication norms apply. Many tourist businesses communicate in both French and English. Facebook is popular for community announcements and local market updates.
Most Guadeloupe restaurant reservations are by phone call to a French landline (+590 followed by a 9-digit local number). From a Roamix eSIM you can call these via WhatsApp or simply use the restaurant's website booking form where available.
Airports in Guadeloupe
Pointe-a-Pitre Maryse Conde International Airport
Pointe-a-Pitre
Free Wi-Fi in the terminal; reasonable speeds. Note: no SIM card shops at this airport. Activate a Roamix eSIM before departure.
SIM cards are NOT available at PTP airport. The nearest mobile operator stores are at Milénis shopping centre in Les Abymes, a 5-minute drive. A Roamix eSIM activated before departure gives you instant Orange Caraibe 4G on landing without this detour.
Marie-Galante Airport
Grand-Bourg, Marie-Galante
Small terminal with no public Wi-Fi. Orange Caraibe 4G covers Grand-Bourg immediately outside.
Air Antilles and local charters fly PTP to Marie-Galante in under 20 minutes. Download your Grand-Bourg map and rum distillery tour details offline before the flight.
Les Saintes Airport (Terre-de-Haut)
Terre-de-Haut, Les Saintes
Tiny grass airstrip with no terminal facilities. No Wi-Fi. Orange Caraibe 4G covers the village.
Short-hop flights from PTP take 15 minutes to Les Saintes. Download all island maps and restaurant contacts in Pointe-a-Pitre before the flight; ferries from Basse-Terre or Trois-Rivieres are an alternative.
La Desirade Airport
Beausoleil, La Desirade
Very small airstrip with no public Wi-Fi. Mobile coverage in Beausoleil village.
La Desirade is Guadeloupe's easternmost and least-visited outer island. Flights from PTP take 20 minutes. Download the island map before departure; La Desirade beaches and iguanas are the primary attraction.
Visa & Entry for Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an integral part of France and therefore part of the European Union. Entry requirements are identical to metropolitan France. EU and EEA citizens enter freely with a national ID card or passport. Non-EU citizens (including Americans, Canadians, Australians and British nationals post-Brexit) may enter visa-free for short tourism stays. The Schengen Area rules apply.
eVisa / ETA
No e-visa or ETA required for US, Canadian, Australian and most Western nationals for short stays. Stays within Schengen Area rules apply. UK nationals post-Brexit may stay up to 90 days in 180 without a visa, as with metropolitan France.
Passport validity
EU citizens: national ID card or passport valid for stay. Non-EU: passport valid for at least 3 months beyond departure date.
Onward ticket
Return or onward ticket may be requested. Proof of accommodation is standard.
Guadeloupe follows French immigration procedures. Keep your hotel booking confirmation available on your phone or offline for potential inspection. Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport (PTP) has standard French customs procedures.
Entry requirements follow French and Schengen rules. Verify current requirements with the French Embassy in your country before travel.
Get connected the moment you land in Guadeloupe.
Get your Guadeloupe eSIMMoney & Payments in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe uses the Euro (EUR), the same as metropolitan France. There are no currency exchange issues for Euro-zone travellers. US dollars and other currencies are not widely accepted; change to Euros before arrival or use ATMs.
Cash vs Card
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and supermarkets in Grande-Terre. The outer islands are more cash-dependent: Les Saintes and Marie-Galante markets, beach bars and smaller guesthouses prefer cash. Carry Euro banknotes when travelling to outer islands.
ATMs
Banque des Antilles Francaises (BDAF), Credit Agricole and BNP Paribas ATMs are widely available in Pointe-a-Pitre and Gosier. The outer islands have ATMs in their main villages but they can run out of cash during busy periods; withdraw in Pointe-a-Pitre before the ferry.
Payment Apps
Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted at most modern card terminals in Guadeloupe. French-standard contactless payments are widely supported in Gosier and Pointe-a-Pitre. PayLib (French mobile payment) is used by locals but not necessary for tourists.
Daily Budget
Guadeloupe prices are similar to France. Budget travellers in gites and local restaurants spend EUR 60 to 100 per day. Mid-range visitors at Gosier hotels with restaurant lunches budget EUR 150 to 250 per day. High-end beachfront resorts at Sainte-Anne run EUR 300 to 600 per night.
Data cost: Orange Caraibe local data plans are moderately priced. A Roamix eSIM offers the convenience of pre-purchasing in your currency before departure without the need to visit an operator store in Guadeloupe.
Getting Around Guadeloupe
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring Guadeloupe, especially for Basse-Terre, the national park and the volcanic interior. Grande-Terre's tourist south coast is navigable by taxi and some local buses (Ti'bus). Outer islands are car-free (Les Saintes) or very small (Marie-Galante); bicycles and scooters are rented locally. Ferries connect the main islands to the outer archipelago.
Rental car
Essential for Basse-Terre and the national park. International and local car rental agencies at PTP airport. Google Maps works well across both main islands; cache offline maps for the Route de la Traversee before entering the national park.
Ferry (L'Express des Iles and CTM Deher)
L'Express des Iles and CTM Deher operate ferries from Pointe-a-Pitre, Basse-Terre town and Trois-Rivieres to Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Desirade. No mobile signal during crossings. Download ferry timetables and outer island maps before boarding.
Ti'bus (local buses)
Grande-Terre has a local bus network (Ti'bus) connecting Pointe-a-Pitre with Gosier, Sainte-Anne, Saint-Francois and other south coast towns. Services run daytime only. Use Google Maps with offline Grande-Terre map to navigate routes.
Taxi and VTC (private hire)
Taxis operate from PTP airport and Pointe-a-Pitre. Agree rates before departing. Local taxi booking apps like Kap operate in Guadeloupe. Roamix data enables app-based booking and navigation.
Regions & Travel
Guadeloupe's butterfly shape results from two distinct volcanic wings joined by a narrow mangrove-lined channel called the Riviere Salee. Grande-Terre to the east is the flat, historic, tourist-facing wing: the beaches of Sainte-Anne and Saint-Francois, the colonial capital of Pointe-a-Pitre, and the windward Pointe des Chateaux cliffs. Basse-Terre to the west is the wild volcanic wing: the active La Soufriere volcano, Carbet Falls, tropical forests and a rugged black-sand Atlantic coast. The outer islands, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Desirade, add entirely distinct characters to any Guadeloupe itinerary.
Best time to visit: December to April is the dry season (Careme) and the best weather: sunny, lower humidity and reliable northeast trade winds. February to April is peak season. The rainy season (hivernage) from June to November brings heavy tropical showers and the Atlantic hurricane season; most rain falls in afternoon bursts. Carnival in Guadeloupe runs from Epiphany to Ash Wednesday (February to March) and is one of the Caribbean's most colourful.
Pointe-a-Pitre and Grande-Terre North
The main city and economic capital of Guadeloupe, Pointe-a-Pitre is a bustling creole port city with a famous central market (Marche Saint-Antoine), colonial architecture on Place de la Victoire, the Victor Schoelcher Museum dedicated to the abolitionist who ended slavery in the French colonies, and Guadeloupe's best rum bars. The north coast of Grande-Terre has rocky limestone cliffs and the Pointe des Chateaux headland.
Signal: Best Orange Caraibe 5G and 4G speeds in all of Guadeloupe. Pointe-a-Pitre is the connectivity hub of the islands.
Grande-Terre South (Gosier, Sainte-Anne, Saint-Francois)
The tourist heart of Guadeloupe stretches along the south coast of Grande-Terre from Gosier to Saint-Francois. Gosier is the main resort town; Sainte-Anne has the most beautiful white-sand beach and offshore sandbar; Saint-Francois is quieter and has a marina used as base for sailing south to Les Saintes and Marie-Galante.
Signal: Excellent Orange Caraibe and SFR 4G throughout the south coast tourist corridor. Fast and reliable throughout Gosier, Sainte-Anne and Saint-Francois.
Basse-Terre Volcano and National Park
The western wing of Guadeloupe is dominated by La Soufriere, an active stratovolcano rising to 1,467 metres. The surrounding Guadeloupe National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of montane rainforest, hot springs and spectacular hiking. Three Carbet Waterfalls cascade from the volcano flanks. The administrative capital Basse-Terre town sits on the southwest coast under the volcano.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G in Basse-Terre town and Saint-Claude. The summit trail above 1,100 metres has patchy signal. Carbet Falls gorge has limited coverage. Download hiking maps offline at Saint-Claude.
Marie-Galante
Marie-Galante, Guadeloupe's largest outer island, is nicknamed the Big Pancake for its circular flat shape. Three rum distilleries (Bellevue, Capesterre, Poisson) make it a rum lover's paradise. The beaches of Capesterre and Anse du Coq are peaceful and undeveloped. The island moves at half the speed of the main islands; it is the most authentic and least touristy destination in the Guadeloupe archipelago.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G in Grand-Bourg and Capesterre towns. Some northern coastal roads and the interior have weaker 3G signal. Download Marie-Galante map offline on the main island before taking the ferry.
Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut)
Les Saintes is a group of eight small islands south of Basse-Terre; only two are inhabited: Terre-de-Haut (the tourist favourite) and Terre-de-Bas. Terre-de-Haut is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in the French Caribbean, with a tiny harbour, pastel houses, no cars, a fort and extraordinary clarity of water. The Pain de Sucre (Sugar Loaf) headland is a signature viewpoint.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G covers the village and harbour area of Terre-de-Haut. Fort Napoleon and hillside viewpoints have outdoor signal. Download maps of the island before the ferry.
Hidden Gems
La Soufriere Volcano Summit
Volcano HikeBasse-Terre National Park
The highest peak in the Lesser Antilles at 1,467 metres and one of the few active volcanoes in the Caribbean accessible by foot without technical equipment. The sulphurous summit craters emit steam permanently. On clear mornings the views extend to Martinique, Dominica and Montserrat.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G at the trailhead parking at Savane a Mulets (1,142m). Signal becomes patchy above the cloud line. Cache the summit trail GPS track offline at Saint-Claude before ascending.
Check OVSG volcanic alert level online using Roamix data at Saint-Claude before the 30-minute drive to the trailhead. The trail is officially closed at alert level 4 and above.
Carbet Falls (Chutes du Carbet)
WaterfallBasse-Terre National Park
Three spectacular waterfalls cascading from the flanks of La Soufriere through dense rainforest. The second falls (110 metres) are accessible via a paved trail. The first and third falls require guided hikes. Christopher Columbus reportedly first saw Carbet Falls on his 1493 voyage and described them in his journals.
Signal: Orange 4G at the main access road from Saint-Sauveur. The gorge trail to the second falls has intermittent signal. Download the trail map offline before entering the national park.
Book a guided tour to the upper falls through a local agency in Gosier using Roamix data. Download offline maps for the national park trail system before driving to Basse-Terre.
Sainte-Anne Beach and Sandbar
BeachGrande-Terre South
Consistently ranked among the finest beaches in the French Caribbean. A wide crescent of white sand and clear turquoise water, bordered by palm trees. A sandbar (Ilet du Gosier style) appears at low tide. The town of Sainte-Anne behind the beach has excellent local restaurants and the lively Saturday market.
Signal: Excellent Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G on Sainte-Anne Beach and throughout the town.
Book beach-front restaurants and beachside sunbed rentals in advance using Roamix data during high season (December to April) as spaces fill quickly.
Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut)
IslandLes Saintes Archipelago
The most photographed island village in the French Caribbean. A tiny, car-free settlement around a perfect natural harbour, with a church, painted Creole houses, Fort Napoleon, a sugar loaf headland and some of the clearest water in the Caribbean. Day-trippable from Grande-Terre or Basse-Terre by ferry.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G in the village of Le Bourg and harbour area. Hillside hiking trails have outdoor 4G. No signal on the ferry crossing from Trois-Rivieres.
Book ferry tickets (CTM Deher or L'Express des Iles) from Pointe-a-Pitre or Trois-Rivieres online using Roamix data. The day-trip ferry from Trois-Rivieres to Terre-de-Haut takes 20 minutes and is the most popular route.
Marie-Galante Rum Distilleries
Heritage DistilleriesMarie-Galante
Marie-Galante has three operational rum distilleries producing rhum agricole (rum made directly from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses), considered among the finest agricultural rums in the world. Distillerie Bellevue retains a water-powered sugar mill; Distillerie Capesterre is the most visitor-friendly; Distillerie Poisson produces the highly regarded Pere Labat rum.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G in Grand-Bourg and Capesterre towns. Signal at the rural distilleries is 3G to 4G. Download directions to Bellevue, Capesterre and Poisson distilleries offline before the ferry.
Book guided distillery tours online using Roamix data before taking the ferry to Marie-Galante. Download the island map and distillery locations offline in Pointe-a-Pitre.
Route de la Traversee
Scenic Drive and RainforestBasse-Terre National Park
The Route de la Traversee crosses the full width of Basse-Terre through the Guadeloupe National Park rainforest, passing waterfalls, tree fern forests, a mountain zoo (Maison de la Foret) and dramatic viewpoints over both coasts. The best introduction to Basse-Terre's volcanic interior by car.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G on the road at lower elevations. The deep rainforest interior and the Saut de la Lezarde waterfall trail have limited signal. Cache the route offline before starting.
Download the Route de la Traversee offline with all viewpoint and waterfall markers in Pointe-a-Pitre before crossing to Basse-Terre. Use Roamix data at Maison de la Foret for real-time weather on the summit trail.
Pointe des Chateaux
Geographic LandmarkGrande-Terre East
The dramatic eastern tip of Grande-Terre where the Atlantic and Caribbean collide at a rocky limestone headland. Windswept cliffs, a large cross on the highest point, views of La Desirade island and the feeling of standing at the absolute edge of the Caribbean. A popular sunset viewpoint.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G on the coastal road and at the headland carpark. Exposed clifftop position means excellent outdoor signal.
Pointe des Chateaux is 15 kilometres east of Saint-Francois on a direct road. Navigate with Google Maps offline (coastal road is simple but the parking area is signed only in French).
Morne-a-l'Eau Cemetery
Cultural Heritage SiteGrande-Terre North
An extraordinary historic cemetery of black and white checkerboard-tiled tombs, built on a hillside above the town. At All Saints (November 1), candles are placed on every tomb creating a spectacle visible from miles away that has become one of the Caribbean's most photographed events. Worth visiting for the architecture alone at any time of year.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G in Morne-a-l'Eau town and at the cemetery entrance.
Morne-a-l'Eau is 15 kilometres north of Pointe-a-Pitre. Navigate with Google Maps offline. Plan your visit timing: All Saints night visits in November require checking the local programme using Roamix data.
Ilet du Gosier
Offshore IsletGrande-Terre South (Gosier)
A tiny islet 800 metres offshore from Gosier, surrounded by turquoise lagoon water and a circular white-sand beach. Accessible by water taxi from Gosier beach (10 minutes). A perfect shallow snorkelling site with no facilities and no crowds outside peak season.
Signal: No mobile coverage on the islet itself (uninhabited). Orange 4G on the beach at Gosier town from which water taxis depart.
Negotiate your water taxi fare from Gosier using WhatsApp via Roamix data to avoid overcharging. Confirm your return pickup time before wading ashore.
Grand Cul de Sac Marin UNESCO Biosphere
Marine ReserveBetween Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre
The vast mangrove-fringed lagoon between the two main islands is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve sheltering manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, nurse sharks and extraordinary birdlife including the brown pelican and Antillean frigate bird. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard tours leave from multiple points around the lagoon.
Signal: Orange Caraibe 4G on the mangrove shore access points. No signal on water activities in the reserve. Download the mangrove kayak route map offline before the paddle.
Book guided mangrove kayak tours with Les Heures Saines or Parfum d'Aventure using Roamix data. Download the paddling route offline before entering the mangroves.
Events & Best Seasons
Guadeloupe Carnival
CarnivalPointe-a-Pitre and all municipalities · January to Ash Wednesday (February to March)
Guadeloupe Carnival runs from Epiphany to Ash Wednesday in the French Antilles tradition. Each weekend brings themed masked parades: Dimanche Gras (Sunday), Lundi Gras (the 'Mi-Careme' midweek celebration), Mardi Gras (fat Tuesday with the devil figures known as diables rouges), and the Ash Wednesday 'death of Vaval' where an effigy representing the carnival king is ceremonially burned. One of the Caribbean's most musically rich carnivals.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 5G and 4G throughout Pointe-a-Pitre during carnival. Network congestion on peak parade days possible; cache parade routes and times before heading out.
Roamix tip
Book accommodation in Pointe-a-Pitre for carnival well in advance; all hotels fill. Use Roamix data to monitor the official carnival committee website for daily parade times and route changes.
Fete de la Musique
Music FestivalPointe-a-Pitre and throughout Guadeloupe · June 21
The national French Fete de la Musique takes on a distinctive Caribbean character in Guadeloupe: free outdoor concerts of zouk, gwo ka (traditional Guadeloupean drum music), biguine, reggae and French Caribbean pop flood Pointe-a-Pitre's squares and beaches. As in metropolitan France, all concerts are free and the entire island participates.
Network note
Full 5G and 4G across Pointe-a-Pitre during Fete de la Musique. Social media peaks on this night.
Roamix tip
The Fete de la Musique coincides with the start of the Guadeloupe low season. Good value accommodation but expect the music to continue past midnight. Use Roamix data to navigate between concert venues.
Tour de Guadeloupe (Cycling)
Sporting EventAll over Guadeloupe · August
An annual professional cycling stage race circling the entire archipelago. The Tour de Guadeloupe attracts Caribbean and French professional cyclists for a week of stages crossing both main islands, the La Soufriere volcanic climbs and the flat Grande-Terre cane country. One of the major sporting events in the French Antilles.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G at all stage start and finish areas across both islands.
Roamix tip
The Tour de Guadeloupe passes through nearly every major town. Monitor the race live tracker using Roamix data to position yourself at mountain-top spectator areas for the La Soufriere stage.
Festival Gwo Ka
Cultural and Music FestivalSainte-Anne, Grande-Terre · July
The Festival Gwo Ka celebrates the UNESCO-listed traditional drum music of Guadeloupe. Gwo Ka is the foundational musical tradition of the island, rooted in the plantation-era African heritage of the enslaved population. The festival in Sainte-Anne features concerts, workshops, ceremonial drumming circles (lewoz) and cultural discussions.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 4G in Sainte-Anne throughout the festival.
Roamix tip
The Festival Gwo Ka is one of the most culturally significant events in the French Caribbean. Book accommodation in Sainte-Anne or Gosier early for July. Use Roamix data to check the festival programme at the official website.
All Saints Night at Morne-a-l'Eau
Cultural EventMorne-a-l'Eau Cemetery · November 1
On the night of November 1 (All Saints, Toussaint), thousands of candles are placed on the checkerboard-tiled tombs of Morne-a-l'Eau Cemetery by local families. The hillside transforms into a sea of candlelight visible from kilometres away. One of the most visually extraordinary traditions in the Caribbean, drawing photographers and visitors from across the region.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 4G in Morne-a-l'Eau. The candlelit cemetery is photographed extensively; upload from town with Roamix data.
Roamix tip
Arrive in Morne-a-l'Eau by 7pm as families light candles from dusk. Navigate from Pointe-a-Pitre with Google Maps offline cached before departure.
Guadeloupe Book Festival (Salon du Livre)
Literary EventPointe-a-Pitre · March
An annual celebration of Caribbean and French literature held in Pointe-a-Pitre, drawing authors from Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana and metropolitan France. The festival honours the legacy of Guadeloupean authors including Nobel Prize laureate Saint-John Perse (Alexis Leger) and novelist Maryse Conde (after whom the airport is named).
Network note
Full 5G in central Pointe-a-Pitre at festival venues.
Roamix tip
Use Roamix data to check the Salon du Livre programme and author event schedule at the festival website. Events are in French.
Marie-Galante Festival
Cultural FestivalGrand-Bourg, Marie-Galante · August
A cultural festival celebrating the distinct identity of Marie-Galante through music, dance, local gastronomy, rum, and the unique traditions of the island that has preserved its agricultural and Creole heritage more intact than any other part of Guadeloupe. The festival centres on Grand-Bourg market and the waterfront.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 4G in Grand-Bourg during the festival. Ferry bookings from Pointe-a-Pitre to Marie-Galante fill during this period.
Roamix tip
Book ferry tickets from Pointe-a-Pitre to Grand-Bourg well in advance for the festival period using Roamix data. L'Express des Iles and CTM Deher both serve the crossing.
Carnival in Les Saintes
CarnivalTerre-de-Haut, Les Saintes · February to March (pre-Lent)
The tiny population of Terre-de-Haut holds its own carnival, a charming small-island version of the main Guadeloupe Carnival with distinctive Saint-Saintois masks and costumes unique to this isolated community. The whole village participates in a parade that circles the tiny main square multiple times.
Network note
Orange Caraibe 4G in the village. The small size means the whole island is visible from any vantage point.
Roamix tip
Carnival on Terre-de-Haut is an intimate community event. Take the ferry from Trois-Rivieres (20 minutes) using a booking made online with Roamix data. The island only accommodates a limited number of day visitors.
Guadeloupe Jazz Festival
Music FestivalVarious venues across Guadeloupe · May
An annual jazz festival bringing international and French Caribbean jazz artists to Guadeloupe for a week of concerts in Pointe-a-Pitre, Gosier and Sainte-Anne. Blends American jazz traditions with the local Antillean rhythms of zouk and gwo ka.
Network note
Full 5G and 4G at all Grande-Terre festival venues.
Roamix tip
Check the Guadeloupe Jazz Festival programme and ticket availability using Roamix data. Outdoor concerts at Sainte-Anne and Gosier beachside are typically free; venue concerts require tickets.
Foire de la Saint-Louis
Cultural MarketPointe-a-Pitre · August
The annual Saint-Louis Fair in Pointe-a-Pitre is a traditional trade fair and cultural event celebrating Guadeloupean crafts, food producers, rum makers and agricultural heritage on the feast day of Saint Louis (August 25). Stalls fill the main square and surrounding streets with local produce, handmade goods and Caribbean food.
Network note
Full Orange Caraibe 5G throughout central Pointe-a-Pitre during the fair.
Roamix tip
The Saint-Louis Fair is the best opportunity to buy authentic Guadeloupean products including rhum agricole, local spices, Creole pottery and woven goods directly from producers. Navigate to the market using Roamix data.
Spring
March to May sees the tail end of dry season with April bringing the first hints of humidity returning. A good transitional season: warm, mostly dry, fewer crowds than winter peak, and competitive accommodation rates. The Chocolate Festival (if visiting nearby Martinique) and the Guadeloupe Jazz Festival in May add cultural events to a low-key but pleasant travel window.
Summer
June to August is the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season and the rainy (hivernage) season in Guadeloupe. Afternoon tropical showers are common but mornings are usually clear and warm at 28 to 32 degrees Celsius. This is off-peak: lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists. The Tour de Guadeloupe cycling race runs in August. La Soufriere is accessible between showers. The outer islands are less crowded and genuinely beautiful in this season.
Fall
September and October are the peak of the hurricane season. Guadeloupe has been hit by significant hurricanes (including Hugo in 1989 and Maria in 2017). Weather is hot and humid with frequent heavy showers. Most tourist infrastructure remains open but travel insurance covering hurricane disruption is essential for this window. Morne-a-l'Eau candlelit cemetery on All Saints night (November 1) is a highlight of the late fall.
Winter
December to April is the dry season (Careme) and peak tourism. Temperatures are 25 to 29 degrees Celsius with persistent northeast trade winds keeping things comfortable. Humidity drops noticeably. December and January are busy with French metropolitan visitors. Carnival runs from January to Ash Wednesday. The beaches are at their best. Book accommodation well in advance for the Christmas to Carnival period.
Remote Work from Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is a growing digital nomad destination, particularly in Gosier and Pointe-a-Pitre. The French timezone (UTC-4, same as Eastern Caribbean) and reliable Orange Caraibe 4G and 5G make it viable for remote work. The French long-stay visa system (visiteur) provides a pathway for longer stays.
Orange Caraibe 5G in Pointe-a-Pitre and Gosier delivers speeds sufficient for video conferencing and cloud work. Some hotels in Gosier offer dedicated co-working spaces. Outer island connections are slower but workable in the main villages.
The Business Creole co-working space in Pointe-a-Pitre offers day passes and reliable high-speed internet in a professional environment. Gosier beachside cafes with Wi-Fi are popular for light working sessions.
Get connected the moment you land in Guadeloupe.
Get your Guadeloupe eSIMLocal Tips for Guadeloupe
Language
French is the official language and used in all official, commercial and educational contexts. Antillean Creole (Guadeloupean Creole) is the everyday language among Guadeloupeans and is widely spoken in markets and local social settings. Most people in tourism speak some English. Attempt a few words of French: even 'bonjour' and 'merci' are warmly received.
Tipping
Tipping follows French norms. A service charge (service compris) is typically included in restaurant bills. If service is exceptional, an additional 5 to 10 percent is appreciated. Taxi drivers expect rounding up. Guides on volcano hikes or rum estate tours appreciate EUR 5 to 10.
Food & Dining
Guadeloupean cuisine is Creole French Caribbean: extraordinary freshness of ingredients with French technique and Antillean spice. Bokit (a deep-fried bread sandwich filled with accras or chicken) is the ultimate Guadeloupean street food. Accras de morue (salt-cod fritters) are the quintessential appetiser. Colombo (a yellow curry of Indian origin brought by indentured labourers) appears in both chicken and goat versions. Ti' punch (aged rhum agricole, cane sugar syrup and lime) is the local aperitif. The three Marie-Galante distilleries produce some of the world's finest agricultural rum.
Transport
Rent a car for Basse-Terre without question. The route from Pointe-a-Pitre to the La Soufriere trailhead at Savane a Mulets takes about 90 minutes. For outer islands, rent a bicycle or scooter in Les Saintes (no cars) and Grand-Bourg, Marie-Galante.
Emergency Numbers
general
112
police
17
ambulance
15
fire
18
Essential Apps
Google Maps
Works across all Guadeloupe islands. Cache offline map tiles for Basse-Terre national park, outer islands and the Route de la Traversee before each excursion.
Meteociel
French meteorological service app providing detailed weather forecasts for Guadeloupe, essential for La Soufriere hiking days and outer island ferry planning.
L'Express des Iles
Ferry booking app for the L'Express des Iles service connecting Guadeloupe with Marie-Galante, Les Saintes, Martinique and Dominica.
Safety & Health in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is generally safe for tourists in the resort areas of Gosier and Grande-Terre south coast. Some neighbourhoods of Pointe-a-Pitre require standard urban caution, particularly at night. Petty theft on beaches can occur; do not leave valuables unattended. La Soufriere is an active volcano: check volcanic activity alerts from the French Observatoire Volcanologique et Sismologique de la Guadeloupe (OVSG) before hiking.
Download the OVSG (Observatoire Volcanologique) app before hiking La Soufriere. Signal on the summit trail is patchy; check the current alert level at Saint-Claude before ascending. Carry a Roamix eSIM and ensure it is active before any outdoor excursion.
Health Note
Guadeloupe follows French healthcare standards. The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Guadeloupe (CHUG) in Pointe-a-Pitre is a full teaching hospital. EU EHIC/GHIC holders receive the same cover as in metropolitan France. Travel insurance recommended for non-EU visitors.
Water Safety
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Guadeloupe and meets French potability standards. No bottled water is necessary, though it is widely available. Tap water quality is excellent in Pointe-a-Pitre and Grande-Terre; some remote Basse-Terre villages use spring water of equally high quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guadeloupe eSIM, connectivity, and travel
Can I use my EU SIM in Guadeloupe without roaming charges?
Yes, in principle. Guadeloupe is a French overseas department and full EU member, so EU Roam Like At Home should apply. However, some EU carriers list French overseas departments separately from metropolitan France. Verify with your specific carrier before travelling. If your carrier does charge, a Roamix Guadeloupe eSIM is a convenient pre-paid alternative.
Are SIM cards available at Pointe-a-Pitre Airport?
No. SIM cards are not sold at Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport (PTP). The nearest mobile operator shops are at the Milénis shopping centre in Les Abymes, approximately 5 minutes from the airport. This is why activating a Roamix eSIM before departure is highly recommended: you have working data the moment you land.
Which network is best in Guadeloupe?
Orange Caraibe is the primary and most reliable network in Guadeloupe, with the best coverage across both main islands (Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre) and the outer islands of Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Desirade. SFR Caraibe is a strong second in urban Grande-Terre.
How do I set up a Roamix eSIM for Guadeloupe?
Purchase a plan at roamix.app, scan the QR code in your phone eSIM settings (Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM), set Roamix as your data line and enable data roaming. Your eSIM connects to Orange Caraibe automatically on landing at PTP.
Is internet censored in Guadeloupe?
No. Guadeloupe has a fully open internet as part of France and the EU. All apps including WhatsApp, Google, Instagram, FaceTime and YouTube work normally without any restrictions.
What currency does Guadeloupe use?
Guadeloupe uses the Euro (EUR), the same as metropolitan France. US dollars are not generally accepted. Use Euro-area ATMs in Pointe-a-Pitre and Gosier; withdraw sufficient cash before travelling to outer islands where ATM availability is limited.
Do I need a visa to visit Guadeloupe?
Guadeloupe follows French and Schengen visa rules. EU and EEA citizens enter freely. US, Canadian, Australian and UK citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Verify your specific nationality requirements at the French Embassy or Consulate before travel.
What is the best time to visit Guadeloupe?
December to April is the dry season with the best weather: warm, sunny and breezy. February to March is Carnival season. The rainy season from June to November brings more showers and the hurricane risk. January and February are peak season and most expensive; booking well in advance is essential.
Is it safe to hike La Soufriere volcano?
La Soufriere is an active volcano and hike safety depends on current volcanic activity. Check the alert level at the Observatoire Volcanologique et Sismologique de la Guadeloupe (OVSG) website before ascending. At alert level 1 to 3 the trail is open; at level 4 the summit is closed. Signal on the upper trail is patchy; cache the trail map offline at Saint-Claude before ascending.
How do I get to Marie-Galante and Les Saintes?
Ferries to Marie-Galante (Grand-Bourg) and Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut) operate from Pointe-a-Pitre (L'Express des Iles), Basse-Terre town and Trois-Rivieres (CTM Deher). Ferries to Les Saintes from Trois-Rivieres take 20 minutes. Short-hop flights from PTP with Air Antilles are also available. Book online using Roamix data.
Does Guadeloupe have 5G?
Yes. Orange Caraibe has 5G in Pointe-a-Pitre, Gosier and Les Abymes, with expansion to other major towns ongoing. 4G is available everywhere with coverage across both main islands and outer islands.
What emergency numbers should I use in Guadeloupe?
French emergency numbers apply: 112 (European emergency), 15 (SAMU ambulance), 17 (police), 18 (fire). All work from mobile phones including Roamix eSIM.
Do I need to rent a car in Guadeloupe?
For exploring Basse-Terre, the national park and La Soufriere, a rental car is strongly recommended. Grande-Terre's south coast tourist strip between Gosier and Saint-Francois is manageable by taxi and local buses. Outer islands (Les Saintes, Marie-Galante) require ferry crossings; once there, bicycles and scooters are rented locally.
What language is spoken in Guadeloupe?
French is the official language and used in all official and commercial contexts. Antillean Creole (Guadeloupean Creole) is widely spoken between Guadeloupeans. English is understood in tourist areas but attempting French, even basic phrases, is warmly appreciated.
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