Petite Terre Islands Islands

The Petite Terre Islands are two small islands off the coast of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean, part of the French overseas department. They form a protected natural area known for marine biodiversity, seabird colonies and nesting sea turtles.

The shallow waters and reefs around the islands are popular for snorkeling and wildlife observation; there is no permanent population on the islands. Access is controlled and visits are commonly organised as day trips from Guadeloupe with restrictions to protect habitats.

The islands are managed as a protected area by French conservation authorities and are valued for their intact coastal ecosystems and as nesting sites for marine species. Geographically they lie off the eastern side of Guadeloupe in the Lesser Antilles.

• Conservation: Form a small uninhabited pair of islands that are a protected nature reserve off Guadeloupe, important for sea turtles, seabirds and coral reefs.
• Access: Visits are usually by day-trip operators from Guadeloupe and are regulated to minimise disturbance to wildlife and habitats.

• Book landings through an authorized operator out of Saint-François (Guadeloupe) and aim for the first morning transfer to take advantage of calmer seas and clearer snorkeling conditions.
• Respect reserve rules ashore: landings are limited, trails are restricted to protect nesting seabirds and the endemic iguana population, and operators will brief you on conservation measures-follow them closely.
• Bring snorkeling gear for the lagoon (the reef and shallow waters are the highlight) and confirm with your operator whether snorkel equipment is provided or needs to be rented in advance.