Gueule Grand Gouffre
A collapsed sea cave on Marie-Galante's northern coast, open to the sea through an arch below.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Gueule Grand Gouffre is a hole in the limestone of Marie-Galante's northern coast where a sea cave roof collapsed, leaving a shaft down to sea level with an arch at the bottom open to the water, so the swell surges in and out below and the sound comes up the hole. The name means the great chasm's mouth. A short path from the road reaches the rim, which is unfenced.
What's there
- The collapsed shaft - a hole down to sea level in the limestone.
- The sea arch - the opening at the bottom the swell surges through.
- The sound - the noise of the water carried up the shaft.
- The clifftop - the limestone coast the hole is cut into.
When to go
December to April is the driest. Big swell makes the surge most impressive. Mornings are quietest.
Good to know
The rim is unfenced with a sheer drop and the rock is undercut; standing near the edge is genuinely dangerous. There is no railing or supervision. The site is small and the visit brief.
Nearby
Saint-Louis is west, and Habitation Murat is south.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q123765481, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Gueule Grand Gouffre
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
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Grippy closed shoes - Cave floors are wet, muddy and slick with formations. Find on Amazon
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