School Trips To Martinique

Embark on a school trip to Martinique, where French elegance meets Caribbean charm. From exploring volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests to immersing in Creole culture and history, students will experience a rich blend of natural beauty and heritage. Whether diving into marine ecosystems or tracing the island’s colonial past, every itinerary balances adventure and education in this stunning overseas region of France.

Fort-de-France
Saint-Pierre
Mount Pelée
Les Anses-d’Arlet
Îlet Chancel
Diamond Rock

First inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples, Martinique became a French colony in the 17th century and remains a French overseas territory today. Its unique fusion of European and Caribbean influences is reflected in its language, cuisine, and vibrant traditions, making it a captivating destination for cultural and historical exploration.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Fort-de-France – A Warm Island Welcome

We arrive in Fort-de-France, the capital of Martinique, where colonial charm meets a lively Caribbean atmosphere. After checking into our accommodations, we begin with an introductory walking tour of the city, exploring bustling markets, historic forts, and elegant French-style architecture. At La Savane Park, we learn about Napoleon’s wife, Empress Joséphine, who was born on the island, and discuss Martinique’s complex colonial past and its path toward modern identity. We then visit Schoelcher Library, an architectural gem originally built in Paris and later transported piece by piece to Martinique. In the evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner featuring accras (savory cod fritters), Creole grilled fish, and fresh tropical fruit juices. As the sun sets over the harbor, we reflect on the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: French Language Immersion & Creole Market Exploration

Our day begins with an interactive French language session, where we practice conversation skills with local teachers, focusing on daily interactions, market shopping, and island-specific vocabulary. With our newfound linguistic confidence, we head to Marché Couvert, Fort-de-France’s lively open-air market. As we navigate through stalls brimming with spices, fresh seafood, and handcrafted souvenirs, we engage in conversational exchanges with local vendors, ordering traditional ingredients for a later cooking session. After lunch, we visit Saint-Louis Cathedral, an exquisite example of 19th-century French colonial architecture, before heading to the Fort Saint-Louis, a historic military structure with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. As evening falls, we gather for a casual language exchange with local students, sharing insights about life on the island and practicing our French in a relaxed setting.
Day 3: Mount Pelée – Hiking Martinique’s Volcanic Heart

Today, we embark on a scenic adventure to Mount Pelée, the island’s iconic stratovolcano. This legendary peak, responsible for the 1902 eruption that devastated Saint-Pierre, offers breathtaking panoramic views and an unforgettable hiking experience. Our moderate trek takes us through lush rainforest trails, cloud-kissed peaks, and volcanic landscapes, as our guide shares insights about Martinique’s geological history and biodiversity. Along the way, we spot colorful tropical birds, wild orchids, and unique plant species that thrive in this high-altitude ecosystem. After reaching one of the viewpoints near the summit, we enjoy a picnic lunch with fresh island delicacies, taking in the stunning scenery before making our descent. In the afternoon, we visit Saint-Pierre, the former “Paris of the Caribbean”, where we explore the ruins of the old city, including the prison cell of Cyparis, one of the only survivors of the volcanic eruption.
Day 4: Rum Distilleries & Creole Traditions

Martinique is world-renowned for its agricultural rhum (rum), crafted from pure sugarcane juice rather than molasses. Today, we visit a historic rum distillery, where we learn about the intricate fermentation and distillation process that gives Martinique’s rhum its distinctive flavor. After sampling different varieties, including aged rhums and tropical infusions, we continue our exploration of Creole heritage with a visit to a local artisan village, where we engage in traditional craft-making and drumming workshops. For lunch, we enjoy a traditional Creole feast, featuring colombo (Caribbean curry), plantains, and freshly caught seafood. In the evening, we take part in a dance workshop, learning the energetic movements of bélé, a traditional Creole dance deeply rooted in African and Caribbean rhythms.
Day 5: Coastal Adventures – Snorkeling & Marine Conservation

Today, we head to Les Anses-d’Arlet, a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful waterfront, calm waters, and vibrant marine life. Our morning begins with a snorkeling excursion in crystal-clear waters, where we explore coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and marine biodiversity. We learn about marine conservation efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems, including sustainable fishing practices and coral restoration initiatives. After a relaxing beachside lunch, we explore Grande Anse, where we kayak through mangrove forests, discovering the rich biodiversity of Martinique’s coastal wetlands. In the evening, we enjoy a sunset bonfire by the beach, where we share stories, play music, and reflect on our incredible island experiences so far.
Day 6: La Savane des Esclaves – History & Cultural Identity

We spend the day at La Savane des Esclaves, an open-air museum that honors the history and resilience of enslaved people in Martinique. Through historical reconstructions, interactive exhibits, and storytelling, we gain a deeper understanding of Martinique’s complex colonial past and its enduring Creole identity. As we walk through replicas of traditional huts, gardens, and medicinal plant areas, we discuss the legacy of slavery, the abolition movement, and how these histories continue to shape Martinican culture today. In the afternoon, we take part in a traditional Creole cooking workshop, using fresh ingredients to prepare dishes like cassava bread, fried breadfruit, and spicy Creole stews.
Day 7: Excursion to Îlet Chancel & Kayaking Through the Mangroves

Today, we set out on a boat excursion to Îlet Chancel, a small island rich in biodiversity and pre-Columbian history. Here, we discover ancient petroglyphs left behind by the Indigenous Arawak people, as well as the famous iguana population unique to the region. After a picnic by the beach, we hop into kayaks for an exploration of Martinique’s lush mangrove forests, paddling through winding waterways and spotting exotic birds, crabs, and tropical plant species. As we glide through the calm waters, our guide shares insights into the importance of mangroves in protecting coastal ecosystems from erosion and storms.
Day 8: Diamond Rock & Traditional Fishing Villages

Our day begins with a visit to Diamond Rock, a towering basalt island with a fascinating history as a strategic naval stronghold during the Napoleonic Wars. Next, we visit a traditional fishing village, where we meet local fishers and learn about their sustainable fishing methods, boat-building traditions, and the importance of seafood in Martinican cuisine. We enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, before spending the afternoon relaxing at a hidden beach, swimming in the turquoise waters, and taking in the beauty of the Caribbean coastline.
Day 9: Fort-de-France Farewell & Cultural Reflections

On our final full day, we return to Fort-de-France for a last exploration of the city. We visit the Pagerie Museum, the childhood home of Empress Joséphine, before having free time to browse local markets, pick up artisanal souvenirs, and savor French-Caribbean pastries at a traditional boulangerie. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner featuring live Creole music, reflecting on our journey through Martinique’s landscapes, traditions, and cultural history.
Day 10: Departure – Carrying Martinique With Us

As we prepare for our departure, we take one last moment to appreciate the sights, sounds, and flavors of this remarkable island. With our French skills enhanced, new friendships made, and a deeper connection to Martinique’s heritage, we leave with memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. Au revoir, Martinique! 🇲🇶