Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Haiti

Haiti has experienced significant earthquakes (the most recent in 2010) and political instability during the past century, compounded by the prominence of nearby destinations such as Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Consequently, this segment of Hispaniola Island remains considerably underdeveloped and less frequented.

Nevertheless, those who choose to venture to this lesser-known part of the Greater Antilles will find a wealth of experiences awaiting them.

Imposing fortifications, where enslaved individuals once resisted colonial forces, dominate the mountainous interior; lush expanses of sugarcane and verdant landscapes inhabit the central Plaine de l’Artibonite, while the rugged elevations of the Chaine de la Selle soar nearly 3,000 meters above the Caribbean Sea.

Moreover, one cannot overlook the enchanting beaches.

These are bordered by coconut groves and backpacker lodges in Jacmel, radiate warmth and allure at Cap-Haitien, and are enveloped by majestic mountains around the picturesque Chouchou Bay.

This is your opportunity to visit before Haiti gains heightened recognition as a notable destination! To assist in your exploration, here is our selection of the top activities to engage in:

1. Scale the La Citadelle la Ferriere

Perched magnificently on the ridges of Bonnet a L’Eveque mountain, a brief drive south from Cap-Haitien, this monumental fortress (considered one of the largest in the Americas) never fails to inspire awe.

Constructed by Haitian slave rebels in the early 19th century, it served as a defensive stronghold against potential French incursions following the nation’s hard-won independence.

At its peak, nearly 400 cannons adorned the castle’s crenulations, and today, it holds the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Access is available via a challenging mountain trail that spans seven miles from Milot.

2. Get your fix of art and craft at Jacmel

Located on the south coast, a short drive from the capital Port-au-Prince, charming Jacmel (currently a potential addition to the UNESCO World Heritage list) reigns as Haiti’s epicenter of arts and crafts.

Quaint galleries and an array of local artisan shops line the narrow streets, where one can obtain beautifully crafted coconut wood fruit bowls, intriguing Voodoo-inspired artifacts, and reggae-themed headwear.

In addition to shopping, the town boasts a picturesque municipal beach and promenade, lined with palm trees and dotted with enticing seafood grills emitting exquisite aromas.

3. Go on Voodoo pilgrimage to Saut-d’Eau

Flowing in two majestic streams through the lush tropical landscape of central Haiti, Saut-d’Eau is renowned for its stunning natural beauty as well as its spiritual significance.

Revered by both local Voodoo devotees and Catholics, the falls become the focal point of a mass pilgrimage each July during the Our Lady of Carmel festivities, attracting practitioners who come to partake in the cleansing waters.

The site is an enchanting destination all year round, offering an excellent opportunity to swim and refresh after hiking through verdant jungles.

4. Tour the Sans-Souci Palace

Nestled in the northern hills near the monumental Citadelle la Ferriere, which ascends majestically above, this dilapidated palatial complex was once the residence of Henri Christophe, the Haitian monarch and leader during the struggle for independence against the French.

Constructed atop an old plantation, it mirrored the opulent architectural styles of European manor houses, reflecting Haiti’s historical significance and superiority.

Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its grand halls and expansive grounds are accessible through guided tours from Milot and Cap-Haitien.

Visitors can also see the location where King Henri reportedly took his own life, allegedly using a silver bullet, in 1820.

5. Hike the Furcy Forest

Adventure seekers visiting Haiti should prioritize a journey to the grand Massif de la Selle, where the renowned Furcy Forest cascades down the formidable ridges and peaks that rise more than 2,500 meters above the Caribbean Sea.

Esteemed for its pine trees, wooded paths, and breathtaking views overlooking the roaring waves of the southern coast, these sylvan hills represent an ideal locale for passionate hikers.

Popular trekking routes originate from the highland towns and lead down to Jacmel, or navigate across canyon paths towards the charming Seguin.

6. Taste a famous export at the Barbancourt Distillery

With nearly two centuries of history, the Barbancourt brand stands as one of the most iconic names in Haiti.

Available globally, this variant of the Caribbean’s celebrated liqueur is best experienced in its birthplace: the Barbancourt Distillery situated in Petionville, Port-au-Prince.

Tour offerings include casual, informative walkthroughs of production facilities and barrel houses, complemented by ample tasting opportunities along the way. Additionally, the shop is well-stocked with Barbancourt’s esteemed 15-year-old rum and other popular beverages from the brand.

Please consume responsibly, as it is potent!

7. Unwind in Labadee

A popular destination for cruise ships and beach lovers, Labadee is a privately operated sanctuary of sand, sea, and sun, managed under the Royal Caribbean International umbrella.

It is situated off the northern coast and Cap-Haitien, surrounded by a ring of towering mountains and separated from the rest of Haiti by a low barrier.

Within this area, visitors can expect to encounter a taste of traditional Caribbean splendor.

A stunning expanse of white sand and tropical flora converge around the turquoise sea.

Vibrant beach bars buzz with activity, while snorkelers interact with boats along the coastline.

Authenticity may be lacking, but the scenery is undeniably beautiful!

8. Taste that Creole kitchen at Lakay

Accompanied by the sounds of local reggaeton and samba, Lakay is a delightful eatery in Cap-Haitien celebrated for its expertise in traditional Creole cuisine.

Forego the sporadic Italian pizzas on the menu in favor of regional specialties such as spiced chicken or lobster salad served with cashews.

Desserts include a variety of chocolate sundaes and brownies, while refreshing cocktails, including the house pina colada, complement the relaxing sunset experiences on the waterfront seating!

9. Cool off in the Bassin Bleu

Located just a short distance from Jacmel’s elegant Victorian mansions and old coffee port, the Bassin Bleu is nestled within the rocky hills of Haiti.

Gushing forth in jets of water, this waterfall is part of the Petite Riviere that meanders through the southern mountains.

Limited to a select number of tour groups each day, those who make the trek will marvel at the shimmering plunge pools, which glisten in deep blue due to the unique mix of dissolved minerals plentiful in the area.

Tthe site also features numerous grottoes and caves to explore, as well as opportunities for swimming amid the surrounding lush jungle adorned with ferns and orchids!

10. Stroll the Grand Rue Musee d’Art

The Grand Rue Musee d’Art is an intriguing enclave nestled amid the hustle and bustle of Port-au-Prince, adjacent to a large auto repair shop and a junkyard.

Its grand title might imply a magnificent historical context, which is quite misleading.

In truth, the Grand Rue is a chaotic assemblage of sculptures, mechanical figures, and artistic installations crafted from found objects.

Visitors will encounter human figures painstakingly created from discarded automobile components, along with metallic installations inspired by science fiction, and Voodoo effigies with a modern twist.

A stroll through this eclectic showcase of Haiti’s homegrown creativity is absolutely recommended.

11. Whiz up on local history at the Musee du Pantheon National Haitien

If you intend to visit only one museum while in Haiti, make it the esteemed Musee du Pantheon National Haitien.

This substantial concrete edifice in Port-au-Prince, adorned with distinct white cones and mosaic decorations, showcases the country’s most comprehensive collections relating to its national history.

Exhibits dedicated to the island’s indigenous Tainos tribes, detailed accounts of the Spanish and French invasions, as well as sections revealing Haiti’s bid for independence in the 1800s, contribute to its historical importance.

Highlight pieces include the silver gun reportedly used by Henri Christophe during his suicide in 1820 and the anchor from Christopher Columbus’ ship!

12. Explore Fort Jacques

Although smaller than the grand La Citadelle la Ferriere, Fort Jacques remains a significant relic from Haiti’s fortification era.

Like its counterpart, it was constructed by the nation’s nationalist leaders to defend against French attacks in the early 19th century.

Yet, Fort Jacques is enveloped by the forests surrounding Port-au-Prince, making it less frequented and more tranquil than Ferriere.

Visitors can explore the dilapidated remnants of powder houses and armories, admire rusted cannons and cannonballs on the ramparts, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding central plains.

13. Conquer the Pic la Selle

Standing at an impressive 2,680 meters above sea level, Pic la Selle is the highest point in Haiti’s Chaine de la Selle and ranks among the tallest peaks in the entire Caribbean region.

Located near the border with the Dominican Republic, it is interspersed with a network of surprisingly accessible trails and trekking routes.

The most frequented path to the summit begins in the town of Mare Rouge, wandering through thinning pine forests and quaint farming villages before reaching the peak.

This trek rewards visitors with sweeping views over the southern ranges, in addition to the refreshing breezes characteristic of Haiti’s highlands!

14. Grab a bite on Gelee Beach

Gelee Beach (known locally as Les Cayes) is particularly renowned for its lively meringue music festival that occurs annually, attracting numerous kompas bands and dancers.

However, this charming southern shoreline is delightful throughout the entire year, largely due to the array of conch and seafood eateries lining the beach.

Visit and settle into one of the beachfront restaurants, where tantalizing scents of Creole barbecues and spices waft from the kitchens, with lobster dishes, delectable breadfruit platters, and tonm-tonm available on the menu – a paradise for food enthusiasts!

15. Haggle around the Marche an Fer

Sitting prominently in the heart of the Haitian capital, the historic Marche an Fer remains a vibrant hub of local life and commerce throughout the week.

Regarded as a national symbol, this grand bazaar was first constructed in the 1890s (notice the intriguing Oriental architectural design – the structure was originally intended for Cairo, Egypt!). Since then, it has hosted some of the island’s finest crafts and food stalls.

Engage in the lively atmosphere, browsing and negotiating for Voodoo trinkets, fresh jackfruit, fish, and fascinating artistic carvings!