Haiti Travel Guide
Explore the best of Haiti with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, things to do, cultural attractions, safety information, and more. Plan your next adventure to Haiti with our ultimate guide.
- Introduction to Haiti
- List of Places to Visit in Haiti
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Haiti
- La Visite National Park
- Pic Macaya National Park
- Best Things to Do in Haiti: Activities and Tours
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
- Carnival Celebrations
- Week-Long Itinerary for Haiti
- Food and Drink Scene of Haiti
- Where to Stay in Haiti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- El Rancho Hotel
- Ibo Lele Hotel
- What to Buy in Haiti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Haitian metalwork
- Paintings
- Local Culture and Customs of Haiti
- Best Time to Visit Haiti
- Do’s and Don’ts of Haiti
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Haiti: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Haiti
- Where to Go Next from Haiti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Haiti
Haiti, a country in the Caribbean situated on the western side of the island of Hispaniola, is known for its gorgeous beaches, Creole cuisine, and vibrant culture. Although poverty and natural disasters have challenged the country in the past, Haiti’s tourism industry continues to thrive because of its rich history and natural beauty. In this article, we will explore the best places to visit, hike/bike routes, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to stay safe in Haiti.
List of Places to Visit in Haiti
Whether you’re fascinated by history, culture, or nature, Haiti has something to satisfy everyone’s interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Haiti:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The National Museum of Haiti
The National Museum of Haiti, located in Port-au-Prince, is one of the country’s most significant cultural landmarks that highlights the country’s rich history and culture.
The Citadelle Laferrière
The Citadelle Laferrière is a UNESCO World Heritage site built-in 1810 as a fortress atop a mountaintop. The fortress served as a stronghold against the French colonization of Haiti.
Iron Market
Located in the heart of Port-au-Prince, is a historical market where you can find a variety of traditional Haitian clothes, arts, and crafts.
Natural Attractions of Haiti: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Labadee Beach
Labadee Beach on the northern coast of Haiti is one of the most popular tourist destinations for its crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches.
Bassin Bleu
Located in the southeastern region of Haiti, Bassin Blue is a three-tiered waterfall and natural swimming pool that offers breathtaking views.
The Saut-d’Eau Waterfalls
The Saut-d’Eau Waterfalls is a religious site, located in the Central Plateau region of Haiti, where people come to worship and enjoy the local culture.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Haiti
If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure and want to explore the stunning nature, Haiti offers some great hiking/biking routes to explore.
La Visite National Park
La Visite National Park is a mountainous destination with trails and paths that offer breathtaking views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Pic Macaya National Park
Pic Macaya National Park is one of Haiti’s most lush, biodiverse areas and showcases various Haitian flora and fauna. The park has trails for gorilla trekking, butterfly watching, and bird watching.
Best Things to Do in Haiti: Activities and Tours
Haiti has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor adventures, cultural and historical experiences, and local foods to try. Here are some of the best things to do in Haiti:
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Haiti has an array of beautiful Caribbean Sea coral reefs, offering incredible experiences for snorkelers, swimmers, and professional divers.
Carnival Celebrations
Carnival is a time of celebration and partying in Haiti. Cities throughout the country celebrate each year, with colorful displays, parades, and costume parties.
Week-Long Itinerary for Haiti
If you want to experience everything that Haiti has to offer, we’ve put together an ideal week-long itinerary.
| Day | Destination |
|---|---|
| 1 | Port-au-Prince |
| 2 | Citadelle Laferrière |
| 3 | Jacmel |
| 4 | Les Cayes |
| 5 | Côte-des-Arcadins |
| 6 | Labadee Beach |
| 7 | Bassin-Bleu |
Food and Drink Scene of Haiti
Haitian cuisine is a blend of African, French, and Spanish cuisines, characterized by intense spice mixtures. Here are some food items and drinks to try out.
Must-Try Dishes
Griot
Griot is a traditional Haitian dish that consists of fried pork and a blend of spices.
Fried Bananas
Fried bananas are the perfect side dish to any meal. The sweetness of the bananas mixed with the spices makes for a tantalizing treat.
Local Beverages
Haitian Rhum
Haitian rhum has a unique blend of sweet and bitter tones and is a perfect drink for cocktail lovers.
Haitian Coffee
Haitian coffee is rich and flavorful, providing a perfect start to the day.
Where to Stay in Haiti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Visitors to Haiti can find accommodations tailored to their travel style and budget, ranging from upscale hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options are:
El Rancho Hotel
Located in Petion-Ville, a high-end neighborhood of Port-au-Prince, El Rancho Hotel is known for its beautiful interior design.
Ibo Lele Hotel
A budget-friendly and eco-friendly hotel located in the city of Jacmel with lovely gardens and an outdoor pool.
What to Buy in Haiti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Haiti has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, from ceramics, paintings, and metalwork. Some of the must-buy souvenirs from Haiti are:
Haitian metalwork
Haitian metalwork is renowned around the world, with colorful signs and wall hangings made from recycled metal materials.
Paintings
The vibrant and colorful nature of Haitian paintings reflects the diverse culture and landscape of the country.
Local Culture and Customs of Haiti
Like every country, Haiti has its unique culture and customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling to Haiti:
Haitians strictly follow the practice of greeting anyone they come across and expecting a greeting in return.
Best Time to Visit Haiti
The best time to travel to Haiti is between November and March when the climate is pleasant.
Do’s and Don’ts of Haiti
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do:
- Dress modestly.
- Greet people with respect.
- Carry small denominations of cash.
Don’t:
- Don’t eat street food if it doesn’t look fresh.
- Don’t travel to Haiti alone, especially if you are unfamiliar with the country.
Safety and Health
Safety and health are essential when traveling to any country. Here’s some information to keep in mind.
Safety in Haiti
Crime is the most significant safety concern when traveling to Haiti. Visitors should avoid traveling to remote areas, especially after dark.
Health in Haiti
Visitors to Haiti should ensure that they are up to date on all recommended vaccinations and take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses.
Getting to Haiti: Transportation Options and Logistics
Flying is the most common mode of transportation into Haiti. However, you can also get there by road, airplane, or boat. Here are some transportation options for tourists:
Airports Near Haiti
The primary airport serving Haiti is Toussaint Louverture International Airport.
Bus Stations Near Haiti
Public buses are available, but taxis are the most reliable and safest means of transportation in Haiti.
How to Get Around in Haiti
The most popular modes of transportation in Haiti are taxis, tap-taps (minivans), and motorcycles. Tourists should ensure their safety by selecting reliable and reputable travel options.
Where to Go Next from Haiti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
After exploring the beauty of Haiti, why not extend your adventure further by exploring other nearby destinations? Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Jamaica
- Puerto Rico
- Dominican Republic
Conclusion
Haiti is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience, beautiful scenery, and outdoor adventures. This guide provides plenty of information to help visitors explore Haiti. Whether you’re interested in natural attractions or exploring the country’s historical landmarks, Haiti has something for everyone. Before visiting Haiti, ensure to research local customs, vaccine requirements, and travel to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Haiti Image Gallery
Statue of revolution leader and emperor Jean Jacques Dessalines
Voodoo shrine in Port-au-Prince
Citadelle Laferrière in Milot
Visa policy of Haiti
At the Haitian-Dominican border
Tap-taps
Ruins of Sans Souci Palace
Haitian dishes; rice and beans (diri kole ak pwa), pink salad (with potato and beets), baked macaroni, fried plantains, fried chicken and pork (griot), green salad, sauce and piklis (similar to coleslaw)
Street view in the capital