Deuxième Chute du Carbet – The Majestic 110‑Meter Waterfall in Saint‑Claude, Guadeloupe
Discover the awe‑inspiring Deuxième Chute du Carbet, a hidden gem of the Caribbean that promises unforgettable scenery, fresh mountain air, and a perfect adventure for nature lovers.
Introduction
If you’ve ever dreamed of standing beneath a thundering cascade that drops more than 100 meters into a lush, emerald gorge, the Deuxième Chute du Carbet should be at the top of your Guadeloupe bucket list. Nestled in the verdant highlands of Saint‑Claude, this spectacular waterfall is part of the iconic Carbet waterfall series that has long captivated hikers, photographers, and travelers seeking a true taste of the island’s wild side. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan a seamless visit— from getting there and the best time to go, to what you’ll experience on the trail and nearby attractions you can explore afterward.
About Deuxième Chute du Carbet
A brief description
The Deuxième Chute du Carbet (literally “Second Carbet Waterfall”) is a 110‑meter drop that plunges into a deep, moss‑lined canyon. Its powerful roar can be heard from several hundred meters away, and the mist that rises from the cascade creates a cool, ethereal atmosphere that feels worlds away from the tropical beaches of Guadeloupe.
Historical and cultural significance
The Carbet waterfalls—Première, Deuxième, and Troisième—have been part of local folklore for centuries. Indigenous peoples and later French settlers regarded the falls as both a source of fresh water and a sacred place where the island’s natural energy converged. While the exact date of the waterfall’s “discovery” by Europeans is unclear, the Carbet series has long been a point of reference for travelers exploring the interior of Basse‑Terre, the western, mountainous half of Guadeloupe.
Why it matters
- Ecological hotspot – The surrounding rainforest is home to endemic birds, insects, and plant species that thrive in the humid micro‑climate created by the waterfall’s spray.
- Scenic landmark – With a height of 110 m, Deuxième Chute du Carbet is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Caribbean, making it a must‑see for photographers and adventure seekers alike.
- Gateway to adventure – The trail to the falls connects to other natural attractions, such as the Première Chute du Carbet and the soothing hot springs of the Rivière Grosse Corde.
For more background, check out the French Wikipedia entry: Chute du Carbet.
How to Get There
Getting to Saint‑Claude
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Fly into Pointe‑à‑Pitre International Airport (PTP). From the airport, rent a car or arrange a transfer to the town of Saint‑Claude (approximately 45 km, 1‑hour drive).
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Drive to the trailhead. Follow the N1 road west toward Saint‑Claude, then turn onto the D23 (Route de la Carbet). Signage for “Carbet” and “Chutes du Carbet” appears after about 5 km.
Parking and trailhead
- Parking: A small, free parking area sits at the base of the access road. It fills up quickly during peak weekend hours, so aim to arrive early (7 am–9 am).
- Coordinates:
16.044226, -61.645597– plug these into your GPS for the exact trailhead location.
The hike to the falls
- Distance & difficulty: The marked path to the Deuxième Chute du Carbet is roughly 2 km round‑trip with moderate elevation gain. The trail is well‑maintained but can be slippery near the water, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
- Duration: Most visitors complete the hike in 1.5–2 hours, allowing time for photos, a short rest by the cascade, and a quick dip in the pool at the base (if conditions permit).
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Visitor Experience |
|---|---|---|
| December – April (dry season) | Warm, low humidity, minimal rain | Ideal for clear views and dry trail conditions. This is the peak tourist period, so expect more fellow hikers. |
| May – November (wet season) | Higher humidity, frequent showers, occasional thunderstorms | The waterfall is at its most powerful, creating dramatic mist. Trails can be slick, so bring waterproof gear. |
| June – August (summer) | Warmest temperatures, occasional tropical storms | Early mornings are best to avoid heat and crowds. |
Tip: The waterfall’s flow is strongest after a rainstorm, regardless of season. If you love roaring water and vibrant rainbows in the mist, plan your visit a day or two after a moderate rain.
What to Expect
The sensory experience
- Sound: The cascade produces a deep, resonant roar that drowns out most other noises, creating a natural white‑noise soundtrack.
- Sight: Sunlight filtering through the canopy often paints the spray with vivid rainbows. The sheer drop of 110 m is visible from several viewpoints along the trail.
- Touch: If the pool at the base is safe (check local signage), the water is refreshingly cool—perfect for a quick dip after the hike.
Photographic highlights
- Long‑exposure shots of the waterfall capture its silky motion.
- Panoramic views from the trail’s higher points showcase the surrounding rainforest and the valley below.
- Close‑up macro of mosses and ferns that cling to the rocks near the cascade.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for Guadeloupe’s endemic hummingbirds, colorful butterflies, and occasional tree frogs that call the misty environment home.
Nearby Attractions
After you’ve soaked in the beauty of the Deuxième Chute du Carbet, the surrounding area offers several complementary experiences—all within a short walk or drive.
| Attraction | Distance | Type | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Première Chute du Carbet | 0.7 km | Waterfall | Première Chute du Carbet |
| Bain chaud ravine Grosse Corde | 1.0 km | Waterfall | Bain chaud ravine Grosse Corde |
| Bains Chauds de la Rivière Grosse Corde | 1.0 km | Hot spring | Bains Chauds de la Rivière Grosse Corde |
| Unnamed Waterfall 1 | 0.7 km | Waterfall | Nearby Waterfall 1 |
| Unnamed Waterfall 2 | 1.3 km | Waterfall | Nearby Waterfall 2 |
These spots are perfect for extending your day: enjoy a soothing soak in the natural hot springs, chase additional cascades, or simply wander through the lush forest trails that interlink the Carbet waterfall system.
Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Start early | Arriving before 9 am helps you beat the crowds and secure a parking spot. |
| Dress for the trail | Light, breathable clothing, waterproof jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential. |
| Pack water & snacks | There are no food vendors near the falls; bring at least 1 L of water per person and energy bars. |
| Bring a reusable water bottle | Many hikers refill at the natural springs upstream (check water quality first). |
| Respect the environment | Stay on marked paths, avoid touching delicate flora, and pack out all trash. |
| Safety first | The pool at the base can be slippery; test the water depth before entering. In heavy rain, the trail may become hazardous—consider postponing your hike. |
| Cash for parking | While parking is free, some nearby sites may have a small fee; keep a few euros on hand. |
| Local guide option | If you prefer a deeper understanding of the area’s ecology and history, hire a certified local guide from Saint‑Claude. |
| Connectivity | Mobile signal can be spotty on the trail; download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps offline area) before you go. |
| Photography gear | A tripod and neutral‑density filter are useful for long‑exposure waterfall shots. Bring a rain cover for your camera. |
Final Thought
The Deuxième Chute du Carbet is more than just a waterfall; it’s a living postcard of Guadeloupe’s rugged interior, a place where the island’s volcanic roots, tropical rainforests, and crystal‑clear waters converge. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a photography enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking to escape the beach crowds, this 110‑meter cascade offers a rewarding adventure that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
Pack your boots, charge your camera, and set your GPS to 16.044226, -61.645597. The roar of the Carbet awaits.
Happy travels, and may your journey to the Deuxième Chute du Carbet be as unforgettable as the waterfall itself!
