Guadeloupe January holidays

Festivals and events in Guadeloupe in January

Carnival takes centre stage during January. The main event officially runs for a week in February, between Mardi Gras and Ash Wednesday, but the celebrations begin warming up in January. It's a colourful celebration full of parades, costumes and tradition. The Guadeloupe Carnival is one of the most important events on the island and attracts tourists from all over. Head to Pointe-à-Pitre for the main celebrations filled with music, dance, food, drinks and parties.

Guadeloupe hosts the FEMI Regional & International Film Festival each January. It's the only French-speaking film festival in the Caribbean and promotes productions form the Caribbean, southern countries, and beyond that are often unknown to the general public. The festival and award ceremony takes place at Ciné Théâtre de Lamentin in Basse-Terre.

Top places to visit in Guadeloupe in January

January is a popular month for visitors wanting to escape the cold winter in Europe and North America and enjoy the perfect conditions for a beach holiday. Hotel and flight prices will be higher in peak season, so be flexible with departure dates if you are looking for the best deal.

Both main islands boast dry conditions for the first few months of the year, making it the best time to enjoy the island's stunning beaches and snorkelling in the clear waters. Stay on the south coast of Grande-Terre for an idyllic beach getaway. Enjoy long stretches of pristine palm tree-fringed beaches and sparkling turquoise sea. You'll find excellent snorkelling spots just off the coast of Saint-Anne (don't forget to bring your own snorkel) or take a boat trip to the Petite Terre Islands to see spotted eagle rays, green sea turtles and small lemon sharks.

What’s the weather like in Guadeloupe in January?

In January, Guadeloupe has an average temperature of 28°C and 7 hours of sunshine a day. The chance of rain is quite low, and if it does rain, this is quickly followed by sunny blue skies. December to April is the best time to visit Guadeloupe since it's the coolest and driest period of the year.

What to pack for a holiday in Guadeloupe in January

General packing tips for January:

• Pack light clothing, swimwear and shoes suited to a summer holiday.
• Smart-casual outfits for the evening
• Bring a jumper or cardigan for the cooler evenings.
• Don’t forget sun cream, sunglasses and a hat for protection from the sun.
• Strong bug spray and after-bite remedy.
• Travel plug adapter.
• Prescription medicines.
• Tote bag for shopping and a plastic bag for muddy shoes.
• Hiking shoes if you plan on visiting the rainforest and volcano in Basse-Terre.
• Waterproof shoes for swimming in waterfalls.
• Extra layers for hiking to higher altitudes
• If you wish to snorkel from the beach, bring your own snorkelling equipment. Wear a rash vest to avoid sunburn.