Offering the best of Caribbean hospitality and fervor is Haiti, the land of cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, and an unmatched landscape riddled with fun aplenty. Pull out a map and you’ll find it on the east of Cuba, on the island of Hispaniola, attracting tourists from across the world to its bewitching charm. Pine-capped mountains luxuriously sprawl the country’s landscape, making the scenery quite like none other. However, it isn’t just all things nature here. Haiti is perhaps the world’s only country to have carried out a slave rebellion successfully, firming its roots in the relics of history just as well. The country is a fascinating camaraderie of art, culture, music, history, and nature, so don’t miss its irrevocable charm and plan your next getaway ASAP. Meanwhile, here are some of the best things to do in Haiti.
1. Tour Citadelle Laferrière and Sans Souci Palace (from USD 82.0)
Nothing screams Haitian than the country’s spirit to put up a fight and see it through till they emerge victorious. This wholly enriching tour will take you through the Sans Souci Palace, ruins of the royal residence of Henri Christophe – the monarch of the country and a key figure of the Haitian Revolution – and the iconic mountaintop fortress Citadelle Laferrière, which was built to protect the country from French forces. Both these landmarks, now World Heritage Sites, speak volumes about the country’s historical roots. This tour will take you about half a day from start to finish.
Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
Duration: 6 hours
2. Scale the colossal Citadel Laferrière (from USD 5.0)
Book yourself on this walking tour and gain some insightful knowledge about Haiti’s famous Citadel Laferrière, the time when it was built, its construction, and the many stories surrounding it. While on tour, you’ll get to see the never-used stockpiles of cannonballs still stacked in the complex along with several other artifacts. Due to the fortress’s strategic location atop a mountain, visitors are able to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Haitian countryside from its summit. Remember to keep your cameras ready, you’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy frames! Plus, not just Citadel Laferrière’s complex, you’ll even be able to explore the area around it.
Admission Ticket to the Citadelle Laferrière
Duration: 1 to 12 hours
3. Discover Haiti's history at Musée du Panthéon National Haitien
Although a small country, Haiti has seen its share of history – right from the time the Taínos inhabited the lands to the time Haiti fell in the crutches of slavery, its struggle to fight out and its journey till modern day. It’s been quite a ride. Offering a great insight into these various milestones in the country’s history is Musée du Panthéon National Haitien’s fascinating exhibits that include Taíno artifacts, Christopher Columbus’s Santa María’s anchor, and several items that commemorate the soldiers’ contribution to the Haitian Revolution, including the pistol with which Henri Christophe shot himself.
Musée du Panthéon National Haitien
Address: Avenue de la République, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Website: Musée du Panthéon National Haitien
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 4pm; Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
Price: 5 USD
4. Learn Haiti's story at the Ogier-Fombrun Museum
Right in the midst of a lush 18th-century sugarcane plantation, at the Ogier-Fombrun Museum, you’ll find hidden Haiti’s story. The current neighborhood and museum building lay abandoned until architect Gerard Fombrun took to its redevelopment in 1977. Since then, the museum has seen many a history buff making their way to check out the extensive collection of the museum. With items dating back to pre-Columbian times, the museum has an excellent collection of artifacts, objects, original historical documents, furniture among others.
Ogier-Fombrun Museum
Address: Route Nationale No. 1, HT 4311 Montrouis
Website: Ogier-Fombrun Museum
Opening hours: 12pm - 11:30pm (daily)
5. Visit the historic Fort Jacques
Fort Jacques was erected in 1804-06, during a spurt of fort-building following the Haitian independence and stands as a solid reminder of Haiti’s fearless spirit till date. It is named after Jean-Jacques Dessalines, leader of the Haitian Revolution, and major conservatory efforts have brought it to a partially restored state. Oddly enough, there are no signs, boards, or plaques telling you anything about the fort’s history, so we recommend you hitch yourself one of the guided tours. Fort Jacques is a short distance from Fort Alexandre, so you can easily plan the two trips in a single day. Not just history, both these forts also make for superb locations to catch panoramic views of Port-au-Prince.
Fort Jacques
Address: Kenscoff, Haiti
Price: 10 USD (guided tour)
6. Sunbathe at the pristine beaches of Labadee
Labadee, Haiti...miss that beach!!
Posted by Nicole Miller on Monday, 5 June 2017
Along the northern coast of Haiti is the Labadee port, most famous for its stretches of glittering sand, crystal waters, and plentiful fun activities. All four of Labadee’s beaches have all the makings of pleasing a beachcomber. While Nellie Beach is famous among kayakers, Adrenaline Beach offers more options for water sports (zip-lining, sea swimming, etc.). Columbus Cove is the ideal spot for unwinding and Barefoot Beach is privately-owned and reserved for guests of Royal Caribbean International cruises. Each of these beaches oozes an intrinsically Caribbean vibe, rife with tropical flower beds and towering palms doing a happy dance in the calming airs, making the beaches a hotspot for beach bums.
Labadee
Address: Labadee, Nord, Haiti
7. Go animal-spotting at Pic Macaya National Park
Established in 1983 with an effort to conserve and promote Haiti’s ecological diversity, Pic Macaya National Park is one of two national parks in the country and a hotspot of natural diversity. It is home to some endemic and many non-endemic species of animals and it makes for a top spot for tourists to explore. About six species of frogs, previously thought to be extinct, can also be spotted there. Sprawled across an area of more than 8,000 ha (19,800 acres), the park has also been designated a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO. It’s best to go accompanied by a park ranger because they know the best trails and the best locations for animal-spotting.
Pic Macaya National Park
Address: Chantal, Sud
Website: Pic Macaya National Park
8. Spend a day exploring Bassin Bleu Park in Jacmel (from USD 141.0)
Located about 12km (705 miles) northwest of the town of Jacmel, Bassin Bleu Park is easily one of the prettiest sights you’ll behold in all of Haiti. Book yourself on this eight-hour-long day trip to the park and engulf yourself in the area’s tropical scenery and discover its rich flora and fauna. The park is also home to seven waterfalls winding through cliffsides and caves cut into them. Tourists are allowed to swim in the waterfalls, hike through the park, check out the tunnels and caves, explore the wildlife, or do just about anything that interests them. Groups are accompanied by professional guides and the tour is inclusive of lunch and transportation to and from the source point.
Bassin Bleu waterfalls adventure in Jacmel from PAP Haiti
Duration: 8 hours
9. Trek through Furcy Forest
Posted by Haiti Définition on Friday, 14 June 2019
The colossal Massif de la Selle is home to the Furcy Forest, Haiti’s go-to place for adventure seekers. Some 2,500m (8,200ft) above sea level, an extensive area of well laid-out trails, thick pine forests, and stunning vistas cascade down the mountain, making it a top spot for hiking. The cross-canyon path to Seguin and those running down to Jacmel are among the most popular trails. Although, the others are also equally rewarding. The entire trek can take anywhere between four to eight hours, so we strongly suggest you carry a sufficient amount of water and some food. Although you will find a few small shops and restaurants along the way, it’s best to not take any chances. Get those hiking boots ready, folks!
Furcy Forest
Address: Furcy, Ouest, Haiti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
10. Marvel at the fantastic view of the Saut-Mathurine waterfall
Wanna go chasing natural wonders and waterfalls? Haiti has plenty for you.
Posted by VisitHaiti on Sunday, 27 January 2019
Claiming its fame as Haiti’s largest waterfall is the Saut-Mathurine waterfall, pouring its sparkling waters into an emerald-green lake amidst a wealth of exotic flora. You can take a dip in the refreshing waters, just sit back and enjoy the splendid views, or soak in the serenity of the area. If you’re the adventurous kind, you can even dive down from the top. Although, do note that the Haitian authorities use the waterfall for generating electricity, so there’s a very good chance you may not find any waterfall due to the draining. It’s just a matter of luck! There’s also a restaurant just a short distance from the falls where you can head for a bite.
Saut-Mathurine
Address: Camp Perrin, Haiti
Website: Saut-Mathurine
11. Go on a sacred pilgrimage to Saut d'Eau
A small commune, Saut d'Eau not only has a magical natural landscape but also religious significance. It is believed by both Catholic and Voodoo communities that it is in this area that an image of Voodoo goddess Erzulie made an appearance in the 19th century. Ever since, the waterfalls have attracted people by the hordes because their waters have been claimed to assume cleansing and purifying properties. The area sees mass pilgrimage of Voodoo practitioners every Saturday or for the Our Lady of Carmel festivities that are held annually in July. The pilgrimage, coupled with the area’s striking beauty, makes for a sight to behold. This makes for a great activity for tourists looking to explore local customs and people, so remember to keep it on your to-do list.
Saut d'Eau
Website: Saut d'Eau
12. Offer prayers at Sainte Anne Church
The beauty of Saint Anne Church is just amazing 7/26/2014
Posted by Ville de Anse A Veau, Haiti on Saturday, 16 August 2014
A popular religious as well as sightseeing location in Haiti, a visit to the humble Sainte Anne Church makes for a pretty great experience. Although much of its construction was destroyed in an earthquake in 2010, the facility is being reconstructed to provide visitors a great spiritual experience. Many parts of the church have already been rebuilt, so do remember to visit.
Sainte Anne Church
Address: Rue Carbone, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Website: Sainte Anne Church
13. Check out the ruins of Notre-Dame de L'Assomption
Haiti is a former French colony and Notre-Dame de L'Assomption is very much a product of those times. Located in downtown Port-au-Prince, the cathedral was built in 1884-1914. However, it suffered massive destruction in 2010 when the country was rocked by an earthquake and even though several efforts have been put in place to bring the building back up, nothing solid has been able to fructify. Once a beautiful place of worship, now it lays in ruins. Several returning tourists can head there for a before and after experience and first-timers for an insight into how bad the state of affairs really is.
Notre-Dame de L'Assomption
Address: 31 Rue Cheriez, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
14. Buy some arts and crafts from Jacmel
The Bel Bagay Lakay Festival is kicking off now in Farmington, MI, and you can come see work from all of our Jacmel...
Posted by Sant d'A Jakmel - Jacmel Arts Center on Saturday, 27 July 2019
If you do plan to head to the Bassin Bleu Park (covered earlier), you might also want to go around the Jacmel area and lay your hands on some authentic arts and crafts items that make for incredible souvenirs or keepsakes. Jacmel is Haiti’s arts and crafts centre and with good reason. There are countless emporiums, boutiques, galleries, and stores selling handcrafted items, such as papier-mâché decorative items, paintings, and handwoven baskets among a plethora of other things. The Jacmel Arts Center showcases a lot of these arts and crafts items, so you can head up there for a look-through and some shopping as well.
Jacmel Arts Center
Address: 5-7 Rue Sainte Anne, Jacmel, Haiti
Website: Jacmel Arts Center
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
15. Wander around Cap-Haitien
Cap-Haitien, the beautiful wonders of northern Haiti!
Posted by Wenefred Emmy Lozanguiez on Friday, 6 March 2015
On the northern coast of Haiti is Cap-Haitien, a small commune and home to various interesting activities that you can indulge in. Once the “Paris of the Antilles”, Cap-Haitien is best explored on foot. It is known among the locals as Le Cap and each of its streets are dotted with pretty-looking houses and buildings that travelers find hugely striking. Plus, Notre-Dame de L'Assomption, Iron Market and Lakay Restaurant (also covered in this article) are all in Cap-Haitien, so plan your trip in a way that you can check out all the places.
Cap-Haitien
Address: Cap-Haitien, Haiti
16. Get some shopping done at the historic Iron Market
Souvenir shopping at Haiti's Marché en Fer (Iron Market) ? We want everything! http://ift.tt/1QwLaYC
Posted by My Haiti Travels on Tuesday, 23 February 2016
Your trip to Haiti can’t be complete without having visited what was once Haiti’s most prominent market, the Iron Market. It has been damaged several times over, but still attracts lots of tourists. Although nowhere as extensive as it once was, the market continues to be a colorful camaraderie of people, local flavors, tourists, and business. Spices, clothes, fruits and veggies, local condiments, artisanal beauty products, accessories, and craft items are among the many things you’ll still find there. Polish your bargaining skills as they’ll come in handy while picking stuff up here. Else, it’s a great place for people-watching as well!
Iron Market
Address: Marche de Fer, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
17. Marvel at the extensive art collection at El-Saieh Gallery
Posted by El-Saieh Gallery on Sunday, 14 October 2012
Featuring an incredible collection of works of famous as well as budding artists is the El-Saieh Gallery. This spacious and lovely art gallery is located in the Pacot area in Port-au-Prince, overlooking the downtown as well as port area in a run-down, two-story building. Although, don’t let its exterior appearance fool you. Inside its large gallery halls are some of the most unique pieces of art you’d have ever seen. Ranging anywhere from 20 to 500 USD, these artworks can also be purchased.
El-Saieh Gallery
Address: Rue de Chilli, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Website: El-Saieh Gallery
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
18. Boost your love for art at the Artistic Village of Noailles
Le plaisir de capacité . Village artistique de Noailles,
Posted by Village artistique de Noailles on Saturday, 4 November 2017
If you’re vacationing with an art lover or you are one yourself, do remember to head up to the Artistic Village of Noailles. Lying within the Croix-des-Bouquets commune, it is in this small village where you’ll find some of the most exquisite ironwork sculptures. Made out of scrap metal from oil drums, these pieces are as much a work of art as they are a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Ranging from small keepsakes to large statement pieces, you’ll find them all here. Plus, you might even get a chance to try your hand at the skill.
Artistic Village of Noailles
Address: Route Noailles, Croix-des-Bouquets 6310, Haiti
Website: Artistic Village of Noailles
19. Tour the famous Barbancourt Distillery
Posted by Davin de Kergommeaux on Thursday, 11 June 2015
Home to the production of Haiti’s famous Haitian Rum, Barbancourt Distillery is a must-visit. The brand has been around for about two centuries and it has wowed everyone with its products. You can tour through the Barbancourt Distillery’s brewing rooms and barrel houses and learn some interesting stuff about how it’s made. You’ll get several opportunities to sample many of their liqueurs along the way. Although, do note that they’re potent! One drink that we strongly recommend you don’t miss out is their 15-year-old Barbancourt Rum, which is every bit the punch and potency!
Barbancourt Distillery
Address: Petionville, Port-au-Prince 6110, Haiti
Website: Barbancourt Distillery
20. Treat your foodie soul at Lakay
Posted by Lakay Restaurant Cap Haïtien on Monday, 9 June 2014
Among Cap-Haitien’s most famous eateries is Lakay, a Creole kitchen and every bit a foodie’s paradise. Although serving some great pizzas and the usual popular fare, it is the restaurant’s Creole dishes that are its real highlight. Get your hands dirty digging into their spiced chicken or the cashew-topped lobster salad and you’ll know what we’re talking about. Pair these with one of their fruity cocktails and you’ll have yourself a winning combo. Amping up the whole vibe of the place are samba and reggaeton live performances by local bands.
Lakay
Address: Boulevard du Carenage, Cap-Haitien Haiti
Website: Lakay
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11:30am - 2am; Sun: 6pm - 2am (closed on Mon)
Haiti's natural beauty
True to its history, Haiti almost always sees itself gripped in some kind of instability. However, if you’re the kind who’s willing to overlook smaller hiccups, no place makes for a better getaway destination that Haiti. There’s spontaneity among people and unparalleled joy of life oozing from every aspect. What the country lacks financially, it more than makes up for with its happy-go-lucky vibe and a wealth of natural beauty. Our list of things to do in Haiti will offer the best of an all-round experience, so remember to keep it bookmarked while on your vacation!
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