And Breathe...
Behind the beaches of the coastline, Martinique reveals a completely different face – that of its forests, hills and emerald-green mountains. Like a small green dot lost in the immensity of the sea, the island of flowers is a paradise for nature lovers.
Take time to recharge your batteries, appreciate the calm that surrounds you and let yourself be lulled by birdsong and the gentle lapping of rivers.
Now breathe in deep and fill your lungs.
One of Martinique’s most remarkable natural riches is without doubt its forest. From the tropical rainforest that is typical of the extreme north of the island, to the dry forest which is more commonly seen in the south and in the Caravelle Nature Reserve, come and discover the many faces of these very different ecosystems.
There are many rivers in Martinique, winding from north to south across the island. But the big stars are the impressive waterfalls and their natural pools where you can cool off in complete tranquility.
Fascinating
SPECIES
When you step into the heart of nature, you'll discover that Martinique's flora and fauna are nothing short of extraordinary. Come and meet the animal species that inhabit our forests. Birds, lizards and even frogs in some places are largely responsible for the unique and exotic soundscape that you will hear. Birdwatchers will be delighted to observe different varieties of hummingbirds, the yellow-bellied banaquits and mockingbirds in their natural habitat.
In addition to its many fascinating animal species, Martinique is also home to an incredible variety of trees, flowers and plants, like giant ferns, candelabra cacti, brightly-colored tropical flowers, majestic palms and fruit trees, to the delight of the traveling gourmet!
Offering a true sanctuary of biodiversity, Martinique gives visitors a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Feet in the water and had in the
stars
Where land meets water, you’ll discover a unique and fascinating ecosystem – the mangrove forest. This gigantic forest with its roots submerged in water, conceals extraordinary biodiversity.
On foot or by kayak, come and observe the different species of mangrove. These surprising trees with their intertwined roots are the only ones able to grow in such an environment. As well as providing a natural barrier against erosion, the mangrove forest is a haven for many species, including crabs, birds and juvenile fish.
Green to the
top
From Morne Larcher – nicknamed locally as the Sleeping Lady – to our majestic Mount Pelée, through the Pitons du Carbet and Morne Macouba, Martinique is all hills and mountains. Hiking enthusiasts will have every opportunity to reach the top of these peaks to appreciate all the beauty of the island.
Sleeping in
nature
Do you dream of sleeping in the middle of nature, lulled by the song of frogs? Tree houses, transparent bubble domes, lodges and other unusual accommodation await you for weird and wonderful experiences.
Did you know? Since our island is home to numerous plant and animal species – some of them endemic – and because these species are under threat today, Martinique is considered to be one of the world’s 35 biodiversity “hotspots”.
UNESCO, an immense source of
pride
Following the listing of the yole as UNESCO intangible heritage in 2020, the whole of Martinique’s land and sea area was recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2021, under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program. This prestigious world title illustrates the determination and commitment of the people of Martinique.
More recently, in September 2023, on the occasion of the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, the volcanoes and forests of Mount Pelée and the Pitons du Nord became the seventh French natural site to receive the UNESCO label, and the 50th French UNESCO World Heritage site, which is an immense source of pride for our island.
Martinique with a big
M
