Haiti Travel Guide

Published 23 October 2023 · Updated 23 October 2023

Haiti, on the western tip of Hispaniola in the Caribbean, is culturally and naturally beautiful. Haiti offers a unique chance to experience its rich history, thriving arts scene, and African, French, and Taino influences.

Haiti’s tourism economy is still developing, although the Citadelle Laferrière fortification and Île-à-Vache beaches are worth visiting. The capital, Port-au-Prince, has lively markets with Haitian food, music, and art.

As Haiti’s tourism infrastructure grows, travelers should expect new adventures. For off-the-beaten-path travelers, the country’s natural beauty, culture, and kind people are appealing.

Best Places to Visit in Haiti

If you are thinking about where to go in Haiti. Here are the top places to visit on Haiti:

Port-au-Prince: As the bustling capital city, Port-au-Prince serves as the vibrant heart of Haiti. The Iron Market, with its colorful local crafts, is a must-visit. Explore the National Museum to delve into the country’s history and culture. Stroll through the lively streets to feel the pulse of the city’s daily life.

Citadelle Laferrière: Sitting majestically atop a mountain, Citadelle Laferrière is an awe-inspiring fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site not only offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape but also provides insight into Haiti’s history. It stands as a symbol of Haiti’s early fight for independence.

Sans-Souci Palace: Close to Citadelle Laferrière, you’ll find Sans-Souci Palace. Also a UNESCO site, this palace is a beautiful testament to Haiti’s historical significance. It was once the royal residence of King Henri Christophe during the early 19th century. This is the must-visit places in Haiti.

Jacmel: Known for its French colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful coastline, Jacmel is a charming coastal town in southern Haiti. Its annual Carnaval celebration is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts visitors from around the world.

Cap-Haïtien: This city is a gateway to both Citadelle Laferrière and Sans-Souci Palace. With its French influence and beautiful beaches, it’s a destination worth exploring. Don’t miss the historic center and the grand Cathédrale Notre-Dame du Cap-Haïtien.

Labadee: Situated on the northern coast, Labadee is a private destination primarily used by Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Its stunning beaches, water sports, and vibrant local culture provide a unique experience for visitors.

Saut-Mathurine: As the largest waterfall in Haiti, Saut-Mathurine is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Located near the charming town of Port-à-Piment, it provides a tranquil escape and beautiful scenery.

Bassin Bleu: A hidden gem near Jacmel, Bassin Bleu is a collection of cascading waterfalls and natural pools. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a bit of adventure through cliff diving.

Île-à-Vache: Found off Haiti’s southwestern coast, Île-à-Vache is a peaceful and unspoiled island paradise. It offers relaxation on pristine beaches, a glimpse into local culture, and a serene escape from the bustle of city life.

Grotte Marie-Jeanne: Explore the enchanting Grotte Marie-Jeanne, a system of caves located near Port-a-Piment. Inside, you’ll find striking geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools.

Top Things To Do In Haiti

If you think about what to do in Haiti, here are the best things to do in Haiti on weekends.

Visit the Citadelle Laferrière: Explore this awe-inspiring mountaintop fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its incredible architecture and panoramic views.

Discover Sans-Souci Palace: Adjacent to the Citadelle, this historic palace is an architectural gem and a key piece of Haitian history.

Relax on Labadee: Enjoy the pristine beaches and water activities on this private peninsula leased by Royal Caribbean International.

Explore Jacmel: Wander through this charming coastal town, known for its arts scene, colonial architecture, and lively Carnival celebrations.

Experience Port-au-Prince: Immerse yourself in the capital city’s culture by visiting the Iron Market for shopping and indulging in Haitian art, music, and cuisine.

Retreat to Île-à-Vache: Find tranquility on this idyllic island, offering unspoiled beaches and a peaceful environment.

Chase Waterfalls: Hike to Saut-Mathurine and Bassin-Bleu near Jérémie to enjoy refreshing waterfalls and natural pools.

Explore Grotte Marie-Jeanne: Embark on an underground adventure through this cave system filled with fascinating geological formations.

Relax on Côte des Arcadins: Unwind on the beautiful beaches and enjoy watersports and beachfront resorts in this coastal region.

Appreciate Haitian Art: Discover vibrant art villages like Noailles and Soisson-la-Montagne, where you can admire and purchase unique Haitian artwork.

Celebrate Carnival: If your visit coincides with Carnival season, join the lively festivities and immerse yourself in Haitian music, dance, and traditions.

Sample Local Cuisine: Savor the diverse flavors of Haitian cuisine, from spicy griot to flavorful seafood dishes, and don’t forget to try the famous soup joumou.

Contribute to Local Communities: Engage in responsible tourism by supporting local businesses, artisans, and social projects that benefit the Haitian people.

Best Time To Visit Haiti

The best time to visit Haiti is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to March. This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and beach activities. Carnival season, culminating in colorful celebrations during February or March, adds an extra layer of cultural vibrancy to your visit. However, it’s crucial to note that hurricane season lasts from June to November, increasing the risk of heavy rains and tropical storms, so it’s advisable to avoid traveling to Haiti during this period to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

How to Travel in Haiti?

Tourists fly into Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, the capital, and then travel elsewhere. If public transportation is unsafe, rent a car with a local driver or hire a trusted guide for excursions. Check travel advisories and local news for Haiti’s security. Pre-book lodging and transportation.

Haitian Creole is widely spoken, but knowing some French can be helpful since English is rarely used outside of tourism. Prevent waterborne infections, get vaccines, and carry prescriptions. For good relationships, learn Creole greetings and respect local customs. Most places do not accept credit cards, so bring cash and use ATMs.

Best Places To Stay In Haiti

If you think about where to stay when in Haiti, here are the best places to stay in Haiti.

Wahoo Bay Beach: This beachfront resort is located in Côte des Arcadins and offers a tranquil escape with comfortable rooms, water sports, and a beautiful private beach.

Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa: Situated on the Côte des Arcadins, this all-inclusive resort provides a range of activities, multiple restaurants, and a lovely beachfront location.

Karibe Hotel: Located in the capital, Port-au-Prince, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a spa, an outdoor pool, and several dining options. This is one of the best areas to stay in Haiti.

Decameron Montego Bay: Nestled in the hills of Montrouis, this resort provides an all-inclusive experience with beautiful views, multiple pools, and direct access to the beach.

Hotel Montana: Overlooking Port-au-Prince, this upscale hotel offers a serene atmosphere, well-appointed rooms, and exquisite dining options.

Cormier Plage Resort: Situated in Cap-Haïtien, this beachfront hotel features cozy bungalows, a pool, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Le Plaza Hotel: Located in Port-au-Prince, this elegant hotel offers well-furnished rooms, a casino, a swimming pool, and various dining choices.

Hotel Cyvadier Plage: Found in the peaceful town of Jacmel, this seaside hotel boasts oceanfront bungalows, a picturesque beach, and a seafood-focused restaurant.

Kaliko Beach Club: A resort in Côte des Arcadins, it offers all-inclusive packages, water sports, and an extensive private beach.

Auberge du Picolet: Situated in Cap-Haïtien, this charming hotel provides comfortable accommodations, a lush garden, and easy access to the historic sites of the region.

How To Find The Best Budget Haiti Vacation Packages?

Here are some steps to help you find affordable vacation packages for your trip to Haiti:

Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on a vacation. Having a well-defined budget will help you limit your options and prevent overspending.

Travel Off-Peak: Consider off-season travel. Fewer tourists mean cheaper hotels and flights.

Use Travel Websites: Search travel websites for vacation packages. Flight, hotel, and activity packages are available on Expedia, Kayak, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor. Search multiple providers for the best budget package.

Sign Up for Travel Deal Alerts: Subscribe to newsletters or deal alerts from travel websites. This way, you’ll be among the first to know about any Haiti vacation package deals.

Flexible Travel Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use fare comparison tools on travel websites to find the cheapest days to fly. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend flights.

Check airlines: Some offer vacation packages that are cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately.

Use Rewards or Loyalty Points: If you have travel rewards or loyalty points, check if you can use them to reduce the cost of your Haiti vacation package.

Read Reviews: Before booking, read reviews from other travelers who have purchased the same package. This can help ensure the quality of the flights and accommodations.

Book Early: In general, booking your vacation package well in advance can lead to lower prices. Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.

Contact a Travel Agent: You can contact a travel agent. They may have access to exclusive deals and can tailor your package to fit your budget and preferences.

To Conclude

Haiti is culturally and naturally attractive in the Caribbean. While its tourism infrastructure is still emerging, it gives a unique chance to discover its history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Haiti has much to explore visitors can enjoy beaches, waterfalls, and hidden gems like Bassin Bleu while learning about local culture and cuisine.