Hiking in the Parc de la Source in Bouillante, Guadeloupe

Located in Basse-Terre along the leeward coast, the Parc de la Source spans 10 hectares and offers a number of hiking trails alongside other activities, making it a wonderful spot for a day out with family or friends in Bouillante, close to the famous Cousteau Reserve. Whether you're a keen walker in search of adventure or someone who prefers to unwind over a picnic with sweeping views of Guadeloupe's western coastline, the Parc de la Source has something for everyone.

Bordered on one side by the Bourceau river, the park features a variety of trails that wind through the Guadeloupean tropical forest and the mountain streams that flow through it. Along the way, you'll discover some of the area's most charming highlights: the Queue de Cheval waterfall, a 20-metre cascade beneath which you can take a refreshing dip; the Bouillante spring, the park's focal point; a nursery dedicated to plants from the mesophilic forest and agroforestry; and breathtaking viewpoints over the Pigeon islets! On site, you can also visit the vanilla plantation or browse a craft shop showcasing the work of local artists. And if you'd rather not bring your own picnic, a cafeteria is available — and will even deliver your meal to you in the middle of the forest!

Whether you're planning an active half-day hike or a leisurely full-day stroll through the Parc de la Source, the visit is entirely at your own pace, so you can make the most of everything Bouillante's natural surroundings have to offer.