Welcome to Overseas France! The five overseas departments — Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, Mayotte and Réunion — are a treasure trove of landscapes, cultures and experiences. Whether you dream of hiking through the Amazon rainforest, diving in turquoise lagoons or exploring volcanoes, each destination offers something unique. These regions are also home to vibrant traditions, a fusion of cuisines, and a warm island lifestyle. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through France’s most exotic corners — all under the French flag!
Partez à la découverte des incontournables des territoires d’Outre-mer : plages de rêve, randonnées dans la jungle, plongées dans des lagons cristallins, marchés colorés et festivals traditionnels. L’Outre-mer vous offre un concentré de nature, de culture et d’aventure.
Must-See Attractions in the French Overseas Territories
Looking for adventure, nature and culture? Here are the top 10 experiences you shouldn’t miss in the French overseas departments:
1. Hike the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano
Description: A spectacular hike across lunar landscapes on one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
Location: Réunion
Average cost: Free
Best time to visit: May to November
2. Dive in the Cousteau Reserve
Description: Explore Guadeloupe’s coral reefs and marine life by diving or snorkeling in a protected natural reserve.
Location: Guadeloupe
Average cost: €40 to €60
Best time to visit: December to April
3. Visit a Rum Distillery
Description: Discover the secrets of Martinique’s AOC agricultural rum with tastings, traditional methods and sugarcane fields.
Location: Martinique
Average cost: €5 to €10
Best time to visit: Year-round
4. Explore the Amazon Rainforest
Description: Take a guided trek or boat trip into the jungle of French Guiana to discover its incredible biodiversity and local cultures.
Location: French Guiana
Average cost: €80 to €150
Best time to visit: July to December
5. Admire Mayotte’s Lagoon
Description: One of the largest enclosed lagoons in the world, ideal for observing dolphins, turtles and coral reefs.
Location: Mayotte
Average cost: €30 to €70
Best time to visit: April to October
6. Hike in Mafate Cirque
Description: A unique mountain valley accessible only by foot or helicopter, with breathtaking views and peaceful hiking trails.
Location: Réunion
Average cost: Free (except accommodation)
Best time to visit: May to November
7. Discover Creole Markets
Description: Enjoy a sensory experience in the vibrant markets of Fort-de-France, Saint-Denis or Mamoudzou — full of colors, flavors and local crafts.
Location: Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte
Average cost: Varies depending on your purchases
Best time to visit: Year-round
8. Relax on Les Saintes Beaches
Description: This small archipelago in Guadeloupe offers crystal-clear waters, peaceful coves and a postcard-perfect atmosphere.
Location: Guadeloupe (Les Saintes)
Average cost: €5 to €15 (boat ride)
Best time to visit: December to April
9. Visit the Guiana Space Centre
Description: Learn all about Ariane launches and the space history of French Guiana with a free guided tour.
Location: French Guiana
Average cost: Free (reservation required)
Best time to visit: Year-round
10. Hike around Lake Dziani
Description: A stunning green volcanic crater lake with panoramic views of Mayotte and its surrounding vegetation.
Location: Mayotte
Average cost: Free
Best time to visit: April to October