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Soufrière Hike (Saint-Claude, Guadeloupe) - How to find it?
- corentindutal
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 18
GPX track of the hike to go to Soufrière without getting lost.
La Soufrière, the active volcano of Guadeloupe, is located in Saint-Claude within the National Park. Its hike is one of the most iconic in the Caribbean.
From the Bains Jaunes hot springs, hikers can take the Pas du Roy trail to the top. The path is well-marked, passing through lush forest and volcanic landscapes.
Guided Hike to La Soufrière: Experience Guadeloupe with a Passionate Local Guide
Join a small group (up to 9 people) — our independent guide picks you up and takes you there!On the program: hike to the top of La Soufrière, a dip in the Bains Jaunes, and another swim in a nearby natural pool.
Hike Like a Local
✔ Save time, hike stress-free, walk with confidence
✔ Skip hours of online research
✔ Instant access to the GPX track
✔ Field-tested trail
✔ GPX file compatible with all GPS apps
Save money by purchasing our Top 10 Guadeloupe Hikes GPX bundle — get all the best trails at a discounted price!
The Soufrière Hike in Photos
FAQ & Practical Tips
How long is the hike?
At night: Allow 1 hour to reach the summit if you are a good walker by the classic Pas du Roy - Savanne à Mulet - Chemin des Dames path. By day: With the many tourists, allow 1h30 to climb to the summit. You can also avoid the Chemin des Dames by going through the Col de l'échelle which goes around the Volcano. It is a little longer and slightly more difficult but much quieter in terms of the world.
If you're a beginner : Approx. 3.5 to 4 hours round trip.
Is it difficult?
Moderate. Well-marked trail, but steep sections and slippery rocks in wet weather.
Can I swim at Bains Jaunes?
Yes! The hot spring is perfect before or after your hike.
Warning: don't put your head underwater because of potential amoebae. The pool is disinfected regularly, but it's best to be cautious.
Do I need a guide?
Not required but recommended for safety, guidance, and local stories.
Is it child-friendly?
Yes, from around 6-7 years old, if they are active and supervised.
What gear should I bring?
Good shoes
1.5 L of water
windbreaker (very important)
hat
snacks
GPX-enabled phone.
Elevation gain?
Around 500 m from Bains Jaunes to the summit.
Best time to go?
Dry season (December–April). Avoid hiking during or after heavy rain.
Elevation Gain of the Hike
Start of the hike
La Soufrière in Guadeloupe: Complete guide for a successful climb
Altitude and characteristics
La Soufrière, culminating at 1,467 meters, is the highest point in Guadeloupe and the Lesser Antilles. Nicknamed "The Old Lady", this active volcano offers a unique experience between fumaroles, sulfur fields and lunar landscapes. The ascent is relatively accessible for hikers of all levels, provided you are well prepared.
The Soufrière tarantulas
As you climb, you might encounter one of the most surprising residents: the local tarantulas. Harmless to humans, they live in the wetlands and forests near the volcano. These spiders, although not very visible, play an important role in the Soufrière ecosystem by regulating insect populations. If you are lucky, you might spot one of these fascinating creatures on the Pas du Roy trail or in the Savane à Mulets.
How to maximize your chances of seeing Soufriere clear
La Soufrière is often shrouded in clouds, but here are some steps to maximize your chances of seeing a clear view:
Check local weather Consult the specific forecasts for La Soufrière on Météo France to assess today's conditions.
Analyze Wind and Clouds Head to Windguru to check winds and cloud cover. Choose a day with little to no low and mid-level clouds. A wind from the north or south is usually more favorable.
Observe cloud dynamics Use Windy to visualize cloud cover throughout the day. Clear skies at sunrise or sunset are often a good omen.
Cross-reference forecasts Consult multiple weather sources to refine your forecast. Keep in mind that these forecasts may be contradictory.
Observe recent trends If the summit was clear the day before, especially at sunset, your chances increase significantly.
These scans do not guarantee a clear view, but they increase your chances of fully enjoying the climb.
Guided Tours of La Soufrière
For a more enriching and stress-free experience, you can hire a local guide who will accompany you from your accommodation to the summit, sharing stories and tips along the way.
Prefer to be guided and fully enjoy the volcano without worrying about the route? Book our guided hike to La Soufrière with a passionate local expert.
Practical details for the ascent
GPX Track : The GPX track we offer will guide you on an optimized route to avoid getting lost.
Parking and access : From the Bains Jaunes car park, the classic climb is via the Pas du Roy.
Duration : Allow around 1 hour to reach the summit if you walk at a good pace, or 1.5 hours during the day with lots of people.
Alternative routes : The Col de l'Échelle is a more leisurely option, although slightly longer.
Precautions : Bring a windbreaker to cope with the cold and gusts. The summit can be extremely windy.
By following these tips and carefully preparing your climb, you will be able to fully enjoy this unforgettable experience offered by Guadeloupe's emblematic volcano.
Download the GPX Track of the Hike
For those who wish to explore Soufrière independently, we offer a detailed GPX track of the hike, to be opened on an application such as maps.me
Save money by purchasing our Top 10 Guadeloupe Hikes GPX bundle — get all the best trails at a discounted price!
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