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Carbet Falls Guadeloupe: Complete Hiking Guide, Access and Prices
- Corentin Dutal
- Feb 20, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Complete Guide to Carbet Falls in Guadeloupe: Hikes, Access and Practical Tips
Carbet Falls are among the most iconic natural sites in Guadeloupe. Located in the heart of Guadeloupe National Park on Basse-Terre, these three waterfalls attract hikers looking for tropical forest, powerful water flow and spectacular scenery.
The First Carbet Falls reaches about 115 meters and is the highest of the three. Access starts from the Carbet Falls reception area and requires a real mountain hike, with mud, roots, river crossings and steep sections near the waterfall.
Quick Comparison of the Three Carbet Falls
Waterfall | Height | Difficulty | Round trip |
First Falls | 115 m | Difficult / sporty | 3 h to 3 h 30 |
Second Falls | 110 m | Easy / family-friendly | 30 to 45 min |
Third Falls | About 20 m | Easy to moderate by the alternative route | 2 h to 2 h 30 |
Summary
Hike Like a Local
✔ Save time, start calmly, hike with confidence ✔ Stop spending hours searching through conflicting information ✔ Track available immediately ✔ Track tested in the field ✔ GPX file compatible with all GPS apps
Save by Joining the Randonnons Private Circle
More Comfortable Options to Discover the Best Spots
If this hike does not match your level, if you are traveling with family, or if the weather makes the route risky, here are more comfortable local activities I recommend.
Current Weather
Photos and Videos of Carbet Falls in Guadeloupe
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Carbet Falls
Can you swim at Carbet Falls?
Swimming is strictly forbidden at the Second Carbet Falls for safety reasons. At the First Falls, swimming may be possible, but it remains strongly dependent on conditions and must be approached with caution.
Which waterfall should I choose: the first or the second?
Choose the Second Falls if you want an easy family walk. Choose the First Falls only if you are comfortable with a longer and more technical rainforest hike.
Do you need to book before visiting?
No booking is required. You pay the entrance fee at the reception area, but parking is limited, so arriving early is strongly recommended during weekends and peak season.
When is the best time to visit Carbet Falls?
The dry season from December to May usually offers more stable hiking conditions. During the wet season, the waterfalls are more powerful, but trails are muddier and river crossings can become risky.
Elevation Profile of the First Carbet Falls Hike
Start of the Hike
First Carbet Falls: A Hike in the Heart of Guadeloupe National Park
The First Carbet Falls, located in Capesterre-Belle-Eau, is one of the three emblematic waterfalls of the Grand Carbet River. Less accessible than the Second Falls, it offers a wilder and more immersive hiking experience in the tropical forest.
Access and Start of the Hike
The hike starts at the Carbet Falls reception parking area. From there, a marked trail heads into dense vegetation. The route includes technical sections, roots, mud, steep passages and river crossings that require attention, especially after rain.
Safety and Equipment Tips
Avoid the hike during rain or after heavy rainfall because ravines can rise quickly.
Wear hiking shoes with good grip and bring a light rain jacket.
Bring at least 1.5 liters of water, snacks and a fully charged phone.
Download the GPX Track of the Hike
For those who want to explore the First Carbet Falls independently, we offer a detailed GPX track to open in an app such as Maps.me.
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