Northern Haiti Travel Guide

Discover the rich cultural and natural attractions of Northern Haiti with this comprehensive travel guide. From museums to scenic views, hiking routes, local cuisine, and transportation options, plan the perfect trip to this Caribbean gem.


Introduction to Northern Haiti

Northern Haiti is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering stunning natural beauty and rich culture to travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination. Located in North America, Haiti is known for its vibrant art scene, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks. Northern Haiti is home to many of these attractions, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers.

This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your itinerary in Northern Haiti, covering top attractions, activities, food, transportation, culture, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Haiti

  • Cap-Haïtien
  • The Citadelle Laferrière
  • Sans-Souci Palace
  • Labadee Beach
  • Cormier Beach
  • Bassin Bleu
  • The National Museum of Haiti
  • Village Artistique de Noailles
  • Giant’s Causeway

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northern Haiti boasts fascinating museums and historical landmarks that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. One of the must-visit places is the National Museum of Haiti, which showcases the history and art of Haiti from the pre-Columbian era to the present day.

Another top attraction is the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest fortress in the Americas. Built-in the early 19th century, it is a testament to Haiti’s revolutionary history and serves as a symbol of the country’s independence.

Sans-Souci Palace is another significant historical landmark in Northern Haiti, built-in the early 19th century and once the residence of Haiti’s first emperor, King Henri Christophe.

Natural Attractions of Northern Haiti: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northern Haiti offers a plethora of outdoor adventures and scenic views, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts. The Giant’s Causeway, a unique rock formation that resembles hexagonal columns, is a must-visit natural wonder in Northern Haiti.

Bassin Bleu is another top attraction, featuring three azure blue pools with cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The site is perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Cormier Beach and Labadee Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Northern Haiti, offering crystal-clear waters, white sand, and a range of water sports activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Haiti

Northern Haiti is a paradise for hikers and bikers, offering scenic trails with breathtaking views. The Morne La Selle mountain range is an excellent destination for hiking, with trails ranging from easy to difficult.

Visitors can also bike along the coast on the Route Nationale 1, which connects Cap-Haïtien and Port-au-Prince, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Best Things to Do in Northern Haiti: Activities and Tours

Northern Haiti offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can go on a city tour of Cap-Haïtien, visiting the National Museum, the Citadelle Laferrière, and the Palace of Sans-Souci.

Visitors can also visit the Village Artistique de Noailles, a small village located in the heart of Northern Haiti that is home to many prominent Haitian artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Haiti

  • Day 1: Arrive in Cap-Haïtien, visit National Museum
  • Day 2: Visit Citadelle Laferrière and Sans-Souci Palace
  • Day 3: Explore Labadee and Cormier beaches
  • Day 4: Hike in Morne La Selle mountain range
  • Day 5: Visit Bassin Bleu
  • Day 6: Bike along Route Nationale 1
  • Day 7: Visit the Village Artistique de Noailles before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Haiti

Northern Haiti offers a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of local specialties and fusion cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Griot: fried pork shoulder
  • Titiri: seasoned fried fish
  • Tassot: fried goat meat
  • Akasan: cornmeal-based drink
  • Kremas: sweet liqueur made with coconut milk and rum

Local Beverages

  • Barbancourt: Haitian rum
  • Prestige: Haitian beer
  • Kola Lacaye: local cola

Where to Stay in Northern Haiti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Haiti offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

Some of the top hotels in Northern Haiti are:

  • Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa
  • Aromatik Boutique Hotel & Spa
  • Habitation Jouissant

For budget-friendly options, visitors can check out Vertières Hostel or Hotel Imperial.

What to Buy in Northern Haiti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northern Haiti is known for its vibrant art scene, and visitors can take home some unique and beautiful creations. Artisanal gifts and souvenirs are widely available at local markets throughout the region.

Visitors can also purchase the legendary Barbancourt rum or local coffee as a gift to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Haiti

Haitian culture is a blend of African, Caribbean, and European influences. Visitors should respect local customs and etiquette while traveling in Northern Haiti.

Haitians are known for their music, dance, and art, and visitors are encouraged to participate in cultural events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Northern Haiti

The best time to visit Northern Haiti is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are comfortable. The rainy season is from May to October, and visitors may experience heavy rainfall and high humidity levels.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Haiti

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Learn some basic Haitian Creole phrases

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public
  • Take photos without permission
  • Buy items made from endangered species

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Haiti

Northern Haiti has a high crime rate, and visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Visitors should avoid walking alone at night, carrying large sums of cash, and displaying expensive items such as cameras and jewelry.

Health in Northern Haiti

Visitors should take precautions to avoid common illnesses such as dengue fever and cholera, which are prevalent in Haiti. Visitors should also ensure that they have adequate medical insurance to cover any emergencies.

Getting to Northern Haiti: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Haiti

Northern Haiti is served by two airports: Hugo Chávez International Airport (CAP) in Cap-Haïtien and Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) in Port-au-Prince.

Bus Stations Near Northern Haiti

Bus services operate between Cap-Haïtien and Port-au-Prince, offering affordable transport for visitors.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi to travel between destinations in Northern Haiti.

How to Get Around in Northern Haiti

Visitors can use taxis, moto-taxis, and buses to travel around Northern Haiti. Moto-taxis are a popular and affordable option but can be less safe than taxis.

Where to Go Next from Northern Haiti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other parts of Haiti, including Port-au-Prince, Jacmel, and the southern coast. Visitors can also take a short trip to the Dominican Republic, which shares the island with Haiti and offers a range of tourist attractions and activities.

Conclusion

Northern Haiti is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a range of attractions and activities for travelers. By following this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan the perfect itinerary and experience the best of Northern Haiti.



    Cap-Haïtien
    Fort Liberté
    Labadie