The spirit of France in the heart of the Caribbean - this is Martinique in short. French overseas territory, located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, this country attracts visitors with its pleasant climate, rich history, volcanic beaches and wonderful mountain landscapes, forests, rivers and waterfalls. Exceptional hiking trails, swimming with turtles and other activities that you can do here make Martinique a very desirable destination.
The capital of Martinique, Fort de France, was known as the Caribbean Paris until the eruption of Mount Pelée in the early 20th century. Over 30,000 residents of this city were killed in the explosion during the eruption. Only one prisoner survived in prison, when the thick walls of the cell protected him from heat and explosion. Today, this is a city of history and culture, built on the ruins of the old city of Saint Pierre.
In Martinique you can enjoy many different beaches; from the white coral shores in the south, where there are several hotels, to the dark volcanic sand in the north, with several beaches that have bars and restaurants. Here you will find many activities, including museums, themed plantations, botanical gardens, rainforests, hiking, mountain biking, sailing, casinos and cruises.
You can visit banana and sugar plantations, feel the Creole spirit in the lively, pulsating markets of Fort de France, go hiking on the still active Mount Pelée volcano, enjoy the magical culinary specialties of the locals and shop for exotic fruits and wonderful spices.
And another interesting fact, Martinique is the birthplace of the last French empress, Napoleon's Josephine, and one of the excursions is a tour of the village and the church of Trois Îlets, where the empress was baptized.
Martinique has a tropical climate throughout the year, and is most visited during the dry season, from December to May. The rainy season begins in June and lasts until the end of November, with heavy showers almost every day. September is the rainiest month, with August prone to hurricanes. The mountainous area is both colder and rainier than the coast.
The French department in the Caribbean Sea is one of the amazing Caribbean islands that provides plenty of sun, sand and opportunities for a great vacation.