The emerald-green lagoon of Petite-Terre, Guadeloupe

National Park Marine Reserve

Réserve Cousteau / Îlets Pigeon

A marine reserve off the coast of Bouillante, around the Pigeon Islets: coral gardens, marine life and renowned snorkelling and diving sites. Best explored on an organised trip, setting off from Côte-sous-le-Vent.

See the excursions in the Cousteau Reserve

Experts from GuadeloupeThe widest choice by destinationLocal support 7 days a week

Why visit the Cousteau Reserve?

The Cousteau Reserve, around the Pigeon Islets off the coast of Bouillante, is one of Guadeloupe’s best-known underwater sites. It can be explored whilst snorkelling, diving or from a glass-bottomed boat, as part of an organised trip.

Underwater gardens

Coral gardens and snorkelling spots around the Pigeon Islets.

Protected reserve

A marine area within the Guadeloupe National Park.

Several ways to explore

Snorkelling, diving, glass-bottomed boat trips, catamaran trips or kayaking.

Choose your outing in Réserve Cousteau

All outings selected and coordinated by your local agency. Filter by what you're after.

9 outings

Fast boat

Guided water tour – Cousteau Reserve

Snorkelling suitable for everyone

RelaxationNatureRandonnée palmée

Introductory Dive and Exploration Dive – Cousteau Reserve

Immerse yourself in an unspoilt ecosystem in the heart of Guadeloupe National Park.

Snorkelling trip to the Japanese Garden, Pigeon Islets and the turtle area

From the Japanese Garden to the Turtle Garden, discover Bouillante’s rich underwater world, swim with green turtles and admire the corals and tropical fish.

Gift ideaNatureScuba divingObservation Cétacés

Tour and snorkelling in the Cousteau Reserve on a glass-bottomed boat

Exploring the seabed from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat

Budget-friendlyRelaxationNature

Snorkelling in the Cousteau Reserve

A dive into the heart of the marine life in the Cousteau Reserve

Snorkelling – Cousteau Reserve

Swim in the heart of a natural aquarium, amongst tropical fish and colourful corals.

RelaxationNatureBudget-friendlyScuba diving

Seabob hire and tours – Pointe Noire

Minimal kit for maximum thrills!

ThrillsNatureEquipment rentalWatersports

Step-paddle hire – Pointe Noire

A unique way to explore the coastline leading to the Cousteau Reserve.

SportyNatureWatersportsEquipment rental

Kayak hire at the Pigeon Islets (Cousteau Reserve)

A self-guided tour to explore the Cousteau Reserve at a low price

NatureSportyBudget-friendlyEquipment rental

Bouillante

from25 €

View

Good to know before you go

Marine wildlife

The clear waters make it easy to spot tropical fish and corals.

Turtles

Turtles are regularly sighted, although there is no guarantee that you will see any.

Pigeon Islets

These two islets mark the historic heart of the marine reserve.

Diving

The site is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

With the family

Choose a glass-bottomed boat to explore the seabed without getting your feet wet.

Protection

The reserve forms part of Guadeloupe National Park. Nothing is taken from it.

Visibility

Mornings often offer the best viewing conditions.

Parking

Parking spaces fill up quickly in Malendure. Make sure you arrive early, especially during the holidays and at weekends.

Réserve Cousteau in pictures

Page 1 of 2

Why choose ICIGO to organise your trip to the Cousteau Reserve?

Over 15,000 traveller reviews

Thousands of travellers rely on ICIGO to discover the archipelago’s most beautiful destinations.

We know the archipelago like the back of our hand

From Les Saintes to Petite-Terre, we know the unique features of each destination and can help you choose the one that’s right for you.

The widest choice for every destination

Boat trips, exploring the islands, water sports or nature: find the best ways to discover each destination.

Local support 7 days a week

Need help choosing or organising your outing? Our local team is on hand to help you.

Frequently asked questions

To prepare calmly for your outing in Réserve Cousteau.

Organised excursions departing from La Côte-sous-le-Vent: snorkelling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat trips, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Practical guide

Réserve Cousteau, le guide pour découvrir l'un des plus beaux sites marins de la Guadeloupe

Les îlets Pigeons, la statue immergée du commandant Cousteau, un jardin de coraux et des tortues vous émerveilleront. À découvrir depuis la plage, en randonnée palmée, plongée sous-marine, bateau fond de verre ou kayak.

Read the guide

Prefer to choose by type of experience?Sea, snorkelling, catamaran, family, nature or thrills — explore by mood rather than by place.Explore experiences

Need help choosing your outing?

Our local team guides you towards the outing that suits you — before, during and after your stay.

Ask Gigi a question Contact us