Deshaies Botanical Garden
Guadeloupe
Deshaies Botanical Garden, located in Guadeloupe on the island of Basse-Terre, spans 7 hectares and features more than 1,000 plant species from around the world. The garden is arranged along 1.5 kilometers of pathways that wind through 15 distinct themed areas, including an arboretum with species such as Araucaria, baobab, and royal palms. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flora including orchids, bromeliads, cacti, and medicinal plants, as well as fauna like flamingos, parrots, and parakeets housed in an aviary. The garden also features a picturesque pond with water lilies, papyrus, koi carp, and a 10-meter man-made waterfall. Originally the private property of comedian Coluche from 1979 to 1986, the site was transformed into a public botanical garden by nurseryman Michel Gaillard and opened in 2001. Facilities include a restaurant with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, a snack bar, a children's play area with a goat enclosure, and a gift shop. Wheelchairs, pushchairs, umbrellas, and pet care services are available to enhance visitor comfort. This garden offers a peaceful, sensory journey through the rich flora of the Antilles and is one of Guadeloupe's most visited sites.
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Tip: The best time to visit Deshaies Botanical Garden is during the morning hours when the garden is cooler and less crowded. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid queues and benefit from group discounts if applicable. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. Wheelchairs and umbrellas are available free of charge at reception. Pets are not allowed inside but can be left at the reception area. The on-site restaurant offers panoramic views and is ideal for a relaxing meal during your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The garden covers 7 hectares and features over 1,000 plant species from around the world.
- •It was once the private residence of the famous French comedian Coluche from 1979 to 1986.
- •The garden includes a 10-meter man-made waterfall and an aviary housing various birds such as parakeets and parrots.
- •There are 15 different themed garden areas, including a collection of medicinal plants modeled after medieval monastic gardens.
- •The garden provides free wheelchairs, pushchairs, and umbrellas for visitors, enhancing accessibility.
History
The site of Deshaies Botanical Garden was originally owned by Guy Blandin, who introduced rare plant species to the property.
From 1979 until his death in 1986, the French comedian Coluche owned the property.
In 1991, nurseryman Michel Gaillard purchased the land with the vision of creating a botanical garden.
After 15 months of dedicated work by a team of over 40 employees, the garden officially opened to the public on April 1, 2001.
Since then, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Guadeloupe, showcasing the diverse flora of the Antilles across multiple themed areas.
Place Guide
Arboretum
A collection of notable trees including Araucaria, baobab, bombax, breadfruit tree, jacaranda, and royal palms, showcasing tropical and subtropical species.
Aviary
A specially designed enclosure housing colorful birds such as parakeets and parrots, allowing visitors to observe native and exotic species up close.
Orchid Collection
A diverse assortment of orchids displayed in a dedicated area, highlighting the beauty and variety of these tropical flowers.
Water Lily Pond and Waterfall
A serene pond featuring water lilies, papyrus, koi carp, and aquatic plants, complemented by a 10-meter man-made waterfall that adds to the garden's tranquil atmosphere.
Children's Play Area and Goat Enclosure
A family-friendly zone near the garden's exit with play equipment for children and a small enclosure housing goats, providing interactive experiences for younger visitors.
Contact
Phone: 0590 28 43 02
