Last month, CBS reported that tourism in the Caribbean is starting to show signs of recovery, having all but ground to a halt for obvious reasons for most of 2020. Nevertheless, even those who are venturing back out are largely choosing activities where they can keep themselves to themselves. In the USA, this has spurred a revival of the classic American road trip. It’s an activity that might not seem suited to the small islands of the Caribbean, but Guadeloupe’s Route de la Traversee is the exception that proves the rule.
Route overview
Route de la Traversee cuts right through the middle of Basse-Terre Island, starting at Mahaut on the west coast and emerging on the coast road between Petit-Bourg and Pointe-a-Pitre on the east coast. Locals might see it as a rat run that can be negotiated in less than an hour, but for tourists, it is a route that encompasses dramatic scenery, wildlife attractions and natural wonders. All these are connected by a road that is twisty but well maintained, and can be traversed by a regular sedan or coupe style car, without the need for four wheel drive. There are some great places to stop along the way to make it into a day trip.
Zoo de Guadeloupe
Soon after you enter the boundary of the National Forest when driving from west to east, you will come upon Guadeloupe Zoo. Spread across four acres, the zoo is home to more than 80 species including jaguars, monkeys, raccoons, iguanas and lots more. The insectarium gives you a view of a whole different world that lives below our feet. Guadeloupe Zoo was the first in the Caribbean to achieve membership of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, a demonstration of its commitment to conservation and animal welfare.
Maison de la Foret
Located in the heart of the National Park, Maison de la Foret is at the approximate mid point of Rue de la Traversee. It’s the ideal place to stop and explore the forest that you’ve been admiring from the car at closer quarters, by following one of the well-marked walking trails. There’s a museum and information center, where you can learn more about the forest and its inhabitants, plus a beautiful picnic area beside the picturesque Bras-David River.
Cascade aux Ecrevisses
After leaving Maison de la Foret, you will soon come upon another parking area on the right. This is also worth a stop, as it provides easy access to the spectacular waterfall known as Cascade aux Ecrevisses. There’s no hiking involved, and the pool is popular for a quick swim. There’s even a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.
A Caribbean road trip
Anyone who thinks the islands of the Caribbean are too small for road trips has clearly never experienced the Route de la Traversee. It’s well worth a try, but remember, the fun is in the journey, not the destination, so enjoy every moment.
