Chutes du Galion
A waterfall of about forty metres in the southern forest, reached by a muddy trail from Grand Etang.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Chutes du Galion drop around forty metres into a pool in the forest of southern Basse-Terre, reached by a trail of about an hour from the Grand Étang car park that runs through dense rainforest and is muddy for most of its length in most conditions. The pool below the fall is deep and cold and is used for swimming. Rain in the catchment raises the river quickly, which is the main hazard here.
Highlights
- The fall - a drop of around forty metres into a forest pool.
- The pool - deep cold water at the base, used for swimming.
- The forest trail - an hour through dense rainforest from the car park.
- The catchment - the wet forest that feeds the river.
When to go
December to April is the driest and safest. Flow is strongest after rain but so is the danger. Mornings are best for the walk.
Good to know
The trail is muddy, slippery and steep in places. The river rises fast after rain upstream and people have been caught out. There are no facilities on the route.
Nearby
Grand Etang is south, and Capesterre-Belle-Eau is east.
What to pack for Chutes du Galion
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
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