One of the most rewarding and interesting treks in the Caribbean region, Mount Pelée is a 6km hike with 700 metres of elevation. Packed with gorgeous views, tonnes of greenery and meandering, picture-perfect tracks, if you're dreaming of volcano treks and idyllic beaches then Martinique should most definitely be your next vacation destination.
Most people opt to start their climb to the east side of the volcano very early in the morning, around 6:30 AM. From 10 AM onwards, clouds tend to cover the mountain, thus considerably reducing the visibility.
The spectacular views will blow your mind as you make your way to the summit!
Multiple trails will allow you to explore the incredible Mount Pelée and regardless of which you choose, you will be rewarded with the most beautiful panoramic views. The Aileron Route is a popular choice and is a wonderful hike to the crater rim. Aileron refers to the fin-like pinnacle projecting out from the main body of Pelée.
The steep, rocky trails are perfect for adventurers seeking a physical challenge. The trail to the top of the volcano has a little of everything, crags, chasms, ocean and mountain vistas as well as progressive zones of lush greenery that makes every step of your journey picture perfect.
A trip to Martinique wouldn’t be complete without a trek up Mount Pelée. Hikers navigate circuitous but well-maintained jungle roads into a verdant paradise.
At 4,583 feet, Mount Pelée towers over fishing villages, townships nestled in the landscape’s folds, and Saint-Pierre, the island’s former capital. Perilously placed in the volcano’s foothills, Saint-Pierre was formerly known as "the Paris of the Caribbean," a nod to the town’s bygone grandeur.
The volcano has a great history, you will hear many stories about the huge eruption that took place on May 8, 1902. Causing great tragedy, it decimated the town and 30,000 inhabitants with a swift pyroclastic flow containing superheated gasses, lava, and hot volcanic debris. But don't worry, another eruption will not impede your hike, thanks to geophysicists and volcanologists who monitor the volcano’s seismic activity daily.
If you are interested in including this once-in-a-lifetime experience into your Caribbean yacht charter, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker to incorporate Mount Pelée into your yacht charter itinerary.
