Article mis à jour le 16 Aug 2024
What to do in Martinique ?
Visit Martinique in 10 days, it is possible! We suggest you to discover our itinerary to know what to do in Martinique during your trip in the Caribbean.
In order to pay off the plane ticket and the travel time, we advise you to plan at least 10 days to visit Martinique. All our tips and practical information (when to go, how to get around, budget) are at the end of the article – those in a hurry can click here.
Plane tickets are often very cheap, which makes Martinique a rather economical destination if you are looking for sun in the middle of winter! To compare flights, we always use Skyscanner because we get the best deals there.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Day 6 (South-West)
? Hike to Morne Larcher (Commune du Diamant)
You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.
The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!
⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial
The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.
?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant
The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?
(c) Photographer – Marie Brion
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
- Go and admire the surfers’ beach: Anse Bonneville in Tartane. The ideal place to practice or learn surfing in Martinique
? On your way back to the South, visit and taste the rum of the distillery of the Habitation Clément (in moderation for the drivers)!
Day 4 (South)
? Anse Dufour to swim with the turtles. Go in the morning so you do not have to swim with 25 people! You will have the turtles to yourself. Very important, swim with them yes but with respect. Do not try to touch them. Let them breathe if they want to. YOU are entering their natural habitat, so they must be allowed to live quietly. We went twice and saw turtles both times. It is an absolutely beautiful moment.
? Anse Noire is located a few minutes walk from Anse Dufour. It is the only black sand beach in the south of Martinique. It seems that turtles come to lay their eggs on this beach, that is why they are numerous on this sector! So, you may have the chance to see them near this beach too. Between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour is located “the Y point“. It is a spot to jump with crystal clear water! You can reach it by foot.
? Go to Trois Ilets and Pointe du Bout. Many expatriates live there. There are very nice beaches, stores and restaurants!
Day 5 (South West : what to do in Martinique)
? Day at Anses d’Arlet:
- Visit of the small village
- Visit of the church with the nice view from the pontoon
- Pedal boat activity at the Grande Anse d’Arlet (more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique LIEN)
- Drink/eat at Ti Sable restaurant
- Petite Anse d’Arlet
- Anse Chaudière
Day 6 (South-West)
? Hike to Morne Larcher (Commune du Diamant)
You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.
The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!
⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial
The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.
?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant
The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?
(c) Photographer – Marie Brion
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
- Go and admire the surfers’ beach: Anse Bonneville in Tartane. The ideal place to practice or learn surfing in Martinique
? On your way back to the South, visit and taste the rum of the distillery of the Habitation Clément (in moderation for the drivers)!
Day 4 (South)
? Anse Dufour to swim with the turtles. Go in the morning so you do not have to swim with 25 people! You will have the turtles to yourself. Very important, swim with them yes but with respect. Do not try to touch them. Let them breathe if they want to. YOU are entering their natural habitat, so they must be allowed to live quietly. We went twice and saw turtles both times. It is an absolutely beautiful moment.
? Anse Noire is located a few minutes walk from Anse Dufour. It is the only black sand beach in the south of Martinique. It seems that turtles come to lay their eggs on this beach, that is why they are numerous on this sector! So, you may have the chance to see them near this beach too. Between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour is located “the Y point“. It is a spot to jump with crystal clear water! You can reach it by foot.
? Go to Trois Ilets and Pointe du Bout. Many expatriates live there. There are very nice beaches, stores and restaurants!
Day 5 (South West : what to do in Martinique)
? Day at Anses d’Arlet:
- Visit of the small village
- Visit of the church with the nice view from the pontoon
- Pedal boat activity at the Grande Anse d’Arlet (more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique LIEN)
- Drink/eat at Ti Sable restaurant
- Petite Anse d’Arlet
- Anse Chaudière
Day 6 (South-West)
? Hike to Morne Larcher (Commune du Diamant)
You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.
The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!
⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial
The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.
?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant
The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?
(c) Photographer – Marie Brion
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
Day 3 (East)
? Day at the Presqu’ile de la Caravelle
- Hike the Grand Sentier de la Caravelle (8 km – 3h round trip). You will cross a beautiful mangrove, follow the Atlantic coastline. There are many passages through the forest. The Caravelle lighthouse is located on the way, on the highest peak of the peninsula. Do not miss: the bay of the treasure and its wild beaches ?.
- Go and admire the surfers’ beach: Anse Bonneville in Tartane. The ideal place to practice or learn surfing in Martinique
? On your way back to the South, visit and taste the rum of the distillery of the Habitation Clément (in moderation for the drivers)!
Day 4 (South)
? Anse Dufour to swim with the turtles. Go in the morning so you do not have to swim with 25 people! You will have the turtles to yourself. Very important, swim with them yes but with respect. Do not try to touch them. Let them breathe if they want to. YOU are entering their natural habitat, so they must be allowed to live quietly. We went twice and saw turtles both times. It is an absolutely beautiful moment.
? Anse Noire is located a few minutes walk from Anse Dufour. It is the only black sand beach in the south of Martinique. It seems that turtles come to lay their eggs on this beach, that is why they are numerous on this sector! So, you may have the chance to see them near this beach too. Between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour is located “the Y point“. It is a spot to jump with crystal clear water! You can reach it by foot.
? Go to Trois Ilets and Pointe du Bout. Many expatriates live there. There are very nice beaches, stores and restaurants!
Day 5 (South West : what to do in Martinique)
? Day at Anses d’Arlet:
- Visit of the small village
- Visit of the church with the nice view from the pontoon
- Pedal boat activity at the Grande Anse d’Arlet (more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique LIEN)
- Drink/eat at Ti Sable restaurant
- Petite Anse d’Arlet
- Anse Chaudière
Day 6 (South-West)
? Hike to Morne Larcher (Commune du Diamant)
You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.
The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!
⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial
The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.
?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant
The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?
(c) Photographer – Marie Brion
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
What to do in Martinique in 10 days ?
You will have many things to do in Martinique, we were not bored for a single second! We liked this destination for its beaches, its sea beds, its incredible vegetation and for its authenticity. The island has two coasts, offering very different landscapes. On the Caribbean side, there are small seaside towns, beautiful beaches protected by the coral reef, lagoons with translucent waters called “white bottoms“… While the Atlantic side is more wild.
Between the north and the south, Martinique offers different aspects, that’s why you should absolutely go around the island. The distances are relatively small so it can be done without any problem! In this article, we propose you a detailed itinerary, day by day, to spend a trip in Martinique at its best.
To discover Martinique’s magnificent landscapes in a more free and unique way. Nothing beats hiring a boat!
Where to stay for your trip in Martinique?
We stayed for two weeks at the Pierre & Vacances village of Sainte-Luce, which is located in the south of Martinique. It was nice to be able to stay in one place during this trip, without having to unpack and repack every day. The village was a good place to stay to discover the island, since the distances to travel from the south to the north are reasonable. We stayed in a 2/3 person studio with a view of the sea, which amazed us every morning.
In addition to being well located, the Pierre & Vacances village of Sainte-Luce is top! In terms of architecture, we find an authentic side. We also appreciated the numerous activities on the spot: animated evenings (special mention for the karaoke), sport courses, coffee games… Then the beach and the swimming pool were perfect for sunbathing.
Savings on the cost of the trip to Martinique
One of the great things about staying at Pierre & Vacances is the budget. The apartments are equipped with a kitchen, so we did not eat out much. Because yes, restaurants are rather expensive in Martinique! (See the part about the budget at the end of the article).
Reservation and prices: go here
10 Day Itinerary : what to do in Martinique ?
This itinerary in Martinique can also be done in 15 days, as we did, with a few half days of rest. It is also possible to adapt it to a week by speeding up the movement!
Day 1 (South-East)
- ? Short walk between Anse Moustique and Grande Anse des Salines: Park on the parking lot of Anse Moustique. The road to get there is a bit bumpy but largely doable, just avoid the holes! Anse Moustique is a beautiful and wild beach. The path to Grande Anse des Salines is superb (about 20 min walk). Small precision: you will pass in front of the Petite Anse des Salines (naturist beach).
- ?Lunch break in one of the restaurants of the Grande Anse des Salines. We chose Chez Suzette to taste the “poulet boucané” (typical Martinique meal). Cod acras and a planter are offered for each meal ordered. The prices are reasonable and the quantities are sufficient.
- Hike to the Savane des Pétrifications. These desert landscapes are unusual for an island as flowery as Martinique. The walk is 4 km long and lasts about 2 hours. Park at Anse à Prunes to start the hike. It will end at Anse Trabaud, but you can return to your car by a loop. Be sure to take water and sunscreen with you, there is no shade on this hike!
- Sunset at the Grande Anse des Salines. Since you’re next door, go watch the sunset on this huge palm-fringed beach. It promises to be unique!
Day 2 (South-East of Martinique)
? Day trip to Ilet Chevalier, a must-see in Martinique.
Access : go to Cap Chevalier by car, park in front of “Taxi Cap” and wait for a shuttle boat. Do not hesitate to call the owner if the shuttle is not there, it is very likely that it is moored on the island waiting to bring back customers. The crossing is done in 3 minutes and costs only 4 euros round trip per person (or 2€ for children).
On the spot, a pontoon, a beautiful beach with crystal clear water and white bottoms, a snack bar – with planters of course – and a steep path to go around the island. The beauty of the place lends itself to swimming as soon as you arrive! Bring a picnic if you do not want to eat at the snack bar. If you do not want to go all the way around, we advise you to go to the other beach at the back of the island in 15 minutes. For that, go to the big rock which overhangs the beach and follow the path between shrubs and cactus. Once on the other side, it is deserted and there is an absolute calm, except when Aurélie discovers a crab a few centimeters away from her in the water!
Day 3 (East)
? Day at the Presqu’ile de la Caravelle
- Hike the Grand Sentier de la Caravelle (8 km – 3h round trip). You will cross a beautiful mangrove, follow the Atlantic coastline. There are many passages through the forest. The Caravelle lighthouse is located on the way, on the highest peak of the peninsula. Do not miss: the bay of the treasure and its wild beaches ?.
- Go and admire the surfers’ beach: Anse Bonneville in Tartane. The ideal place to practice or learn surfing in Martinique
? On your way back to the South, visit and taste the rum of the distillery of the Habitation Clément (in moderation for the drivers)!
Day 4 (South)
? Anse Dufour to swim with the turtles. Go in the morning so you do not have to swim with 25 people! You will have the turtles to yourself. Very important, swim with them yes but with respect. Do not try to touch them. Let them breathe if they want to. YOU are entering their natural habitat, so they must be allowed to live quietly. We went twice and saw turtles both times. It is an absolutely beautiful moment.
? Anse Noire is located a few minutes walk from Anse Dufour. It is the only black sand beach in the south of Martinique. It seems that turtles come to lay their eggs on this beach, that is why they are numerous on this sector! So, you may have the chance to see them near this beach too. Between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour is located “the Y point“. It is a spot to jump with crystal clear water! You can reach it by foot.
? Go to Trois Ilets and Pointe du Bout. Many expatriates live there. There are very nice beaches, stores and restaurants!
Day 5 (South West : what to do in Martinique)
? Day at Anses d’Arlet:
- Visit of the small village
- Visit of the church with the nice view from the pontoon
- Pedal boat activity at the Grande Anse d’Arlet (more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique LIEN)
- Drink/eat at Ti Sable restaurant
- Petite Anse d’Arlet
- Anse Chaudière
Day 6 (South-West)
? Hike to Morne Larcher (Commune du Diamant)
You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.
The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!
⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.
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Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial
The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.
?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant
The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?
(c) Photographer – Marie Brion
Day 7 (North of the island)
The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.
? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain. It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique. The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here.
? For dolphin lovers: plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)
? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre: a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.
? Couleuvre waterfall: the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.
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Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique
⛵️Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!
We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.
Day 9 (inside the Jungle)
Cascades de Didier
The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique. To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.
There are two waterfalls in Didier. The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them): lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.
⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.
? The Garden of Balata
The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).
?Visit Fort-de-France
For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.
Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”
? Anse Grosse Roche
The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!
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? Anse Michel
Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.
We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions❤️.
Organize your stay in Martinique
We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique, we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.
Information to know before your trip to Martinique
When to go to Martinique ?
Historically, the island has two seasons:
- the dry season, from December to April
- the wet season, from June to November
According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.
How to get around in Martinique?
A car is essential to visit Martinique. To find a car rental in Martinique, compare prices on Discovercars. This comparator scans the entire market and gives very low prices. They’re even cheaper than on direct rental websites.
10 days in Martinique : Budget
The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.
- Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
- Accommodation : 1300€
- Car Rental : 300€
- Gasoline : 90€
- Food : 220€
Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique
Martinique : the dangers
? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.
☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique, it is often our worst ally.
? BEWARE of the mancenilliers: they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.
Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?
Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.
? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide
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