Traveling In Haiti: A Tourist's Guide To Exploring The Country's Beauty And Challenges

Haiti is a beautiful country, but it is not the safest place for tourists to visit. The country is currently facing a volatile security situation, with violent crime, kidnappings, gang violence, and civil unrest posing a significant threat to visitors. There are frequent reports of armed robbery, carjackings, sexual assault, and murder, with U.S. citizens often falling victim to these crimes. The country also faces shortages of essential supplies, such as fuel, water, food, and medicine, which can make it difficult for tourists to access basic necessities. The U.S. and other governments have issued travel advisories, recommending their citizens not to travel to Haiti due to these safety concerns. While Haiti has much to offer in terms of culture and natural beauty, it is essential to carefully consider the risks before planning a trip to this country.

Travel advisories and safety warnings

The US, Canadian and Australian governments advise their citizens to avoid all travel to Haiti due to the threat of violent crime, kidnapping, gang violence, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. The security situation in Haiti is extremely volatile, with frequent clashes between gangs and security forces. Kidnappings, robberies, and violent crime are increasing, and there is a constant risk of violence and social unrest.

A State of Emergency was declared in Port-au-Prince in March 2024 in response to gang violence and the deteriorating security situation. There is a nightly curfew in place in the Ouest Department from 10 pm to 5 am. Protests, demonstrations, roadblocks, tire burning, and tire burning are common and can turn violent. Travelers are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities, cooperate with police officers, carry valid ID, and monitor local news to stay informed.

Violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, assault, sexual assault, and carjacking, is common in Haiti. The risk increases at night and in isolated areas, and gangs are known to attack residential neighbourhoods and kidnap groups of people. Armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince, and vigilante groups have also attacked and killed alleged gang members. Travelers are advised to be extremely vigilant at all times, avoid going out after dark, and not to resist if threatened by robbers.

Kidnappings are common in Haiti, with both locals and foreigners, including dual citizens, being targeted. Since September 2020, hundreds of foreign nationals, including missionaries, aid workers, and children, have been abducted. Most victims are released in exchange for ransom, but some have disappeared or been killed.

Public transportation is unsafe and unreliable, and travelers are advised to avoid it. "Tap taps" (trucks converted into buses) and moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis) are particularly dangerous. Travelers are advised to pre-book airport transfers or have someone meet them at the airport, as thieves often target travelers who have just arrived in the country.

Shortages of essential supplies such as fuel, water, and food occur frequently, and there are frequent power outages. Medical facilities are scarce and well below international standards, and emergency response is not guaranteed. Travelers are advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tropical storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis, are also a risk in Haiti. The hurricane season is from June to November, but tropical storms and hurricanes can occur at any time of year. Heavy rainfalls can cause flooding, landslides, and mudslides, disrupting essential services and infrastructure.

Getting to Haiti

Haiti has two international airports: Toussaint Louverture International Airport and Cap Haitian International Airport. However, the security situation in Haiti is highly volatile, and the airports can be difficult to access. The U.S. Department of State has issued a "Level 4: Do Not Travel" advisory for Haiti, and the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince has ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members.

If you are travelling to Haiti by air, it is important to monitor the security situation and follow the advice of local authorities. It is recommended to arrange airport transfers and accommodations in advance or have someone meet you upon arrival. It is also advised to avoid providing personal information to unauthorized individuals at the airport and to be vigilant about being followed when leaving the airport.

Road travel to Haiti is possible through the Dominican Republic; however, the border between the two countries has been closed at times due to security concerns. It is important to check the latest border status before planning road travel to Haiti.

Sea travel to Haiti is also an option, but it is important to be cautious as there is a risk of piracy and assault in the waters around the country.

Getting around Haiti

The security situation in Haiti is currently classed as extremely volatile, with violent crime, gang violence, civil unrest, and kidnappings posing a significant threat. As such, it is advised that you do not travel to Haiti at this time. If you are already in Haiti, you should consider leaving the country by commercial means if it is safe to do so.

If you are still planning to travel to Haiti, there are several precautions you should take to ensure your safety when getting around the country.

Firstly, it is strongly advised to avoid all road travel from Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haitien due to the presence of gangs and the highly volatile security situation. If you need to travel within Haiti, consider hiring a driver through a reputable agency or hotel. If you must drive, always keep your fuel tank at least half full, as fuel supply disruptions are frequent. Keep in mind that cell phone coverage may be intermittent in some rural areas, so always carry a cell phone and a list of emergency contact numbers with you. Avoid driving at night or in bad weather, even in the city, and be cautious of abandoned vehicles on the road. Watch out for pedestrians and stray animals.

Public transportation in Haiti is unsafe and unreliable, so it is best to avoid it altogether. Specifically, avoid trucks converted into buses, known as "tap taps," and moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis).

If you need to fly into or out of the country, be aware that the airports can be difficult to access due to the volatile security situation. The Toussaint Louverture International Airport has reopened with limited operations, and the Cap Haitian International Airport is operational. However, thieves at the airport often try to distract foreigners to steal their passports, so always keep your valuables and identification on you. Carry only small amounts of cash, and be extremely vigilant when leaving the airport.

In addition to the above, there are several other general safety precautions you should take when getting around Haiti:

• Be alert and extremely cautious at all times, especially in areas known for criminal activity, such as Carrefour Drouillard and Downtown Port-au-Prince.
• Avoid going out after dark.
• Travel with someone who speaks Kreyòl.
• Avoid showing signs of wealth.
• Have someone meet you at the airport or pre-book your airport transfers.
• Be careful when sharing your travel plans.
• Keep your vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving.
• If you are attacked or robbed, do not resist, as criminals are often armed and can cause serious injury or death.
• If you are a victim of violent crime, get immediate medical help, especially if it involves sexual assault, as the risk of HIV/AIDS infection is high.
• Avoid withdrawing or carrying large amounts of cash, as people leaving banks are common targets for thieves on motorcycles.
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or people hanging around your hotel.
• Ask for permission before taking someone's photograph, as photography can look suspicious, especially in remote areas.
• Keep up to date with local media to stay informed about the evolving security situation and any new threats.

Where to stay

Haiti has a wide range of accommodation options for tourists, from luxurious beach resorts to cosy guesthouses. Here is a list of some of the best places to stay in Haiti:

Beach Resorts

• Kaliko Beach Club All-Inclusive Resort: This resort is located on a beautiful beach and offers bungalows with private jacuzzis, a large pool, and excellent food.
• Royal Decameron Indigo Beach Resort & Spa: A beachfront resort with an outdoor pool, lush gardens, and a restaurant.
• Abaka Bay Resort: This resort offers a tranquil and convenient stay with transport and meal packages. It is known for its friendly and helpful staff.
• Hotel Cyvadier Plage: A 3-star beachfront hotel in Jacmel, with an outdoor pool, garden, and a private beach.

Hotels

• Marriott Port-au-Prince Hotel: A modern hotel with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a great restaurant.
• NH Haiti El Rancho: Located in the heart of Pétion-Ville, this hotel offers a great breakfast and friendly staff.
• Hotel Montana: Features an outdoor pool, a bar, and beautifully maintained grounds.
• Hotel Villa Therese: Located in Pétionville, this hotel offers an outdoor pool and a lush garden.
• Allamanda Hotel: A quiet and comfortable hotel with a terrace and free breakfast, located 5 minutes' walk from Saint Pierre main square.
• Satama Hotel: Located in Cap-Haïtien, this hotel offers an outdoor pool, free private parking, a garden, and a terrace.
• Auberge Villa Cana: A peaceful retreat outside the city with two outdoor pools and a fitness centre.

Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels

• Estinfil GuestHouses: This guesthouse offers great food and incredible views. The owner, Jude, is incredibly welcoming.
• Eucalyptus Guest House: A safe and cosy guesthouse with great food and accommodating staff.
• La Belle Maison Milot: A reliable and affordable option with clean rooms.
• Le Mont Joli Hotel: Clean and simple rooms with reliable electricity.
• J&G Villa Hotel: Features quiet street views, a garden, a bar, and an outdoor pool.
• La Difference Guest House: Located in Cap-Haïtien, this guest house has garden views, free WiFi, and free private parking.

What to do

Haiti is a Caribbean country that takes up almost half of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with the Dominican Republic. It has a rich history and culture, and there are many interesting things to see and do. Here is a list of things to do when visiting Haiti:

• Explore the capital, Port-au-Prince. Visit the National Museum of Haiti, the Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien, and the National Museum of Art. Check out the El-Saieh Gallery and the Oloffson Hotel, a 19th-century Gothic mansion that was once home to two Haitian presidents.
• Take a historical tour of the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vast fort built by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the leader of the Haitian slave revolt and the first emperor of Haiti.
• Tour the Sans Souci Palace, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was the most elaborate residence of Haiti's first king, Henri Christophe, and the place where he died.
• Visit Jacmel, a southern commune known for its arts and crafts and colonial charm. It is considered one of the safest places in Haiti and has impressive mansions and urban architecture.
• Hike to the Bassin Bleu Waterfall near Jacmel. The hike can be rigorous, but you will be rewarded with beautiful cobalt-coloured pools where swimming is allowed.
• Visit the Barbancourt Rum Distillery in Port-au-Prince to taste their world-famous rum and learn about its history and production.
• Discover Haitian cuisine. Try the national dish, griot (fried pork marinated in a sweet and sour sauce), and lambi (a grilled conch dish unique to the Caribbean).
• Explore the Village Artistique de Noailles, a community of artists in Croix-des-Bouquets, near Port-au-Prince, who make and sell distinctive metal artwork.
• Relax on Kokoye Beach, located on the south coast of Haiti. This exotic Caribbean beach is encircled by tall palm trees and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and evening walks.
• Visit the Museum Ogier-Fombrun in Montrouis, a small museum located on a sugarcane plantation that showcases Haitian history from the pre-Columbian era to colonial times.

Frequently asked questions