The Saut du Gendarme waterfall in Martinique

The Saut du Gendarme waterfall is a splendid tourist spot in Martinique. The site reflects the natural bounty of the island. The waterfall, about ten metres high, is an excellent place to admire the lush vegetation and cool off at its foot.

Description of the waterfall

The Saut du Gendarme waterfall offers a magnificent view of the rainforest of Fonds-Saint-Denis. Despite the small size of the place, the waterfall is a natural spectacle without equal. The refreshing water pours down like angels' tears and carries you off to another world. A lovely picture appears in the little rays of sunlight reflected on the watery slide.

The hike

The walk to the Saut du Gendarme waterfall starts from the D1 road, about 1 km from the Deux-Choux junction, towards Fonds-Saint-Denis. The road is very narrow and full of bends, so don't hesitate to honk your horn to let other drivers know you are coming. A sign points to the waterfall from the road and the small car park is right next to it. Allow 5 to 10 minutes to go down a concrete staircase, then cross the river on a small bridge.

Practical information about the Saut du Gendarme waterfall

The Saut du Gendarme waterfall is one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in Martinique. The path is well laid out, but the steps are sometimes high and become slippery when wet. Be careful with very young children, strollers and people with reduced mobility. The pool is shallow and the site is not supervised: swimming is at your own risk, and it is better to simply cool off your feet and legs. The rocks are often mossy and slippery. Check the weather before you set off and avoid the site after heavy rain, because the river can rise very quickly. If the weather turns, here is what to do in Martinique when it rains.

It is a good idea to bring mosquito repellent. The waterfall area is full of insects and you don't want to get bitten. Despite the easy access, wear proper footwear to avoid slipping. There are only a few carbets and picnic tables. The site is very popular, especially at weekends: leave early in the morning or come on a weekday. There are no services on site, so bring water, snacks and a bag to take your rubbish home.

Access map to the Gendarme waterfall

The Saut du Gendarme waterfall is in Fonds-Saint-Denis, about 30 to 35 minutes' drive from Fort-de-France and about fifteen minutes from Le Morne-Rouge. From Fort-de-France, take the Route de la Trace: you will pass the beautiful Balata Garden and the Sacred Heart church of Balata. On the way back you can come down the Caribbean coast, with possible stops in Le Carbet and Saint-Pierre.

At the Deux-Choux junction, take the D1 towards Fonds-Saint-Denis. After about 1 km, a sign points to the waterfall and the small car park is right next to it. It is limited in size and sits by the roadside: in high season, it is better to arrive early.

The Saut du Gendarme waterfall is one of the most beautiful places in Martinique. The clear, fresh water makes the stop very pleasant. You will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the place. Don't hesitate to go as a couple or with your family, you will not be disappointed.

To extend your day, head to the Balata (Alma) river, discover Mount Pelée or the Jesuits' Trail hike, or book a guided walk in Saint-Pierre, the former capital.

List of waterfalls in Martinique

• The Absalon waterfall in Martinique
• The Saut du Gendarme waterfall
• The Waterfall and hike in the heart of Bouliki
• The Dlo Ferré hot spring
• The waterfall of Anse Couleuvre
• The Bô La Riviè waterfall
• La Cascade Dany
• Didier's Waterfall
• The Cascade of Kings (Cascade des Rois)
• The Gorges de la Falaise
• The case of Saut Babin