The Carbet Falls: Which Ones Should You Visit?

The Carbet Falls site is home to three spectacular waterfalls, each offering a unique experience. Depending on your fitness level and the time you have available, you can visit one, two, or even all three in a single day.

The Second Carbet Falls – The Most Accessible

The Second Carbet Falls is the most famous and most visited of the three.

From the Routhiers parking area, a well-marked trail leads you to the viewpoint in about 20 to 30 minutes. The waterfall plunges 110 meters (361 ft) into a lush tropical basin surrounded by dense rainforest.

The trail is suitable for children from 6 years old and presents no major technical difficulties. It is the perfect option for families or anyone discovering the Carbet Falls for the first time.

The First Carbet Falls – For Motivated Hikers

More demanding than the second waterfall, the First Carbet Falls requires approximately 1.5 to 2 hours round tripfrom the parking area.

The trail winds through humid tropical rainforest, follows the Grand Carbet River, and includes several river crossings. The reward is well worth the effort: a magnificent 125-meter (410 ft) waterfall—the tallest of the three—in a much wilder and more preserved natural setting.

This hike is recommended for children aged 10 and over who are used to walking.

The Third Carbet Falls

Closed by Prefectural Order

The Third Carbet Falls is currently closed to the public by prefectural decree for safety reasons.

Why Visit the Carbet Falls with a Guide in Capesterre-Belle-Eau?

The Second Carbet Falls can easily be visited independently. However, exploring the site with a local guide completely transforms the experience—especially when hiking to the First Carbet Falls.

Safety on the Trails

The Carbet Falls area receives some of the highest rainfall in Guadeloupe. Rivers can rise very quickly after heavy rain upstream, even if the weather is sunny elsewhere on the island.

A local guide constantly monitors weather conditions, knows the terrain perfectly, identifies potential hazards, and knows when it is safest to turn back if necessary.

Understanding the Site

The Carbet Falls are much more than three waterfalls.

Their history is fascinating. The name Carbet comes from the Arawak people, who built large wooden shelters called carbets near river mouths.

The Grand Carbet River rises directly on the eastern slopes of La Soufrière volcano. Throughout the hike, your guide explains the volcanic geology, tropical rainforest ecosystem, local wildlife, and the history of this remarkable region—insights you simply won't find on the information panels.

Access to Less Crowded Areas

With a guide, you'll often take quieter alternative trails, avoid the busiest visiting hours, and discover hidden corners of the site that most visitors never see.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Access and Entrance Fees (2026)

Entrance is paid, approximately €5 per adult.

Opening hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., every day.

Parking at the Routhiers car park is mandatory.

Arriving as soon as the site opens (8:00 a.m.) is highly recommended to avoid cruise ship groups arriving later in the morning and the afternoon heat.

Weather – The Most Important Factor

The Carbet Falls area is one of the wettest regions in Guadeloupe. Rain can occur at any time of the year.

The best period to visit is during the dry season (December to June).

After rainfall, trails become slippery and river crossings may become dangerous. The decision to hike is therefore often made on the morning of the excursion based on current conditions—a decision your guide will make using local knowledge and experience.

Essential Equipment

For a safe and enjoyable hike, be sure to bring:

• Closed hiking shoes with non-slip soles (flip-flops are prohibited)

• At least 1.5 litres of water per person

• A waterproof bag to protect your phone during river crossings

• A change of clothes left in your car

• Swimwear if you wish to enjoy the natural pools

• Sunscreen and a cap for exposed sections of the trail

Wildlife and Flora of the Carbet Falls

The trail passes through several layers of tropical rainforest.

From the very beginning, lush vegetation surrounds you: tree ferns, giant bamboo, red heliconias, bromeliads, and wild orchids line the path. The humid air is filled with the scent of wet earth and tropical plants.

Look up and you may spot the Purple-throated Carib hummingbird, endemic to Guadeloupe, or the Guadeloupe Woodpecker, the island's only endemic bird species.

Along the Grand Carbet River, freshwater wildlife is equally remarkable, including river crayfish, titiris (gobies), and mountain mullet, fish capable of climbing waterfalls.

These fragile freshwater ecosystems deserve careful protection, making it essential to respect all regulations established by the Guadeloupe National Park.

Book Your Carbet Falls Hike with GwadaExplo

Yvan offers tailor-made guided hikes to the Carbet Falls, adapted to the pace and abilities of your group.

For families with children, the Second Carbet Falls is an excellent choice from 6 years old.

For more adventurous hikers, combining the Second and First Carbet Falls creates an unforgettable full-day adventure through Guadeloupe's magnificent tropical rainforest.

Book your hike directly through our online calendar.

Places are intentionally limited to ensure a high-quality guided experience.