interesting places to visit in haiti

Top 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Haiti

Often overlooked in favor of its more sedate neighbors, Haiti still draws in curious visitors from all around the world. It’s home to extraordinary and interesting sights as well as vibrant and lively culture, this is the Caribbean but a much rawer version than its luxury resort-dotted rivals.

You’ll also find plenty of gorgeous scenery as Haiti is home to peaceful beautiful beaches, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains galore. Here are the best and most beautiful places to visit in Haiti…

1. Labadee – one of the most attractive beaches to explore in Haiti

Taking a cruise with Royal Caribbean is worth it just for a visit to Labadee, a peninsula on the scenic northern coast of Haiti leased privately to the cruise company.

In this private paradise, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery on secluded, pristine beaches. There are several gorgeous options with sandy shores, free beach chairs, and extra amenities including kayak trips.

If you want even more privacy, Labadee is the home base for excursions to remote coves, reefs, and sandbars.

Those looking for a little more adventure can take advantage of an overwater zipline (the world’s longest), an alpine coaster, a water park, snorkeling excursions, and more.

2. Amiga Island – home to one of the finest beaches in the region and one of the best places to visit in Haiti

Amiga island is a stunning tropical island just a short boat ride away from Labadee and Cap-Haitien. Visitors on private excursions can relax on pure sandy beaches, explore the green island interior, and of course take advantage of the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs (some have dubbed them the best reefs in the whole country), which makes for exciting snorkeling and swimming.

Despite being a remote island, Amiga Island also offers excellent amenities for tourists. All visitors get a complimentary drink to enjoy the strong flavors of Caribbean mixology.

3. Cathedral Notre-Dame – a popular attraction to explore in Haiti

Although not as famous as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Port-au-Prince (a site that is now in ruins and impossible to visit), the Cathedral Notre-Dame in Cap-Haitien is an underrated jewel in Haiti’s crown.

The first building on this site was built in 1670 by the French colonists but it has undergone multiple reconstructions since then. It was the site of several important events in Haiti’s history, including the official proclamation liberating enslaved people in Haiti on August 29, 1793.

Visitors today can enjoy the gorgeous colonial facade and sizable nave. The square in front of the cathedral also offers excellent views of the sea and Cap-Haitien.

4. Bassin Bleu – an attractive natural water site worth visiting! 

Located just a few kilometers outside the city of Jacmel, Bassin Bleu is one of the most beautiful sites in Haiti.

This natural getaway consists of several waterfalls pouring over Haiti’s rocky terrain that forms three pools with stunning, mineral-rich turquoise waters. Visitors can swim right up to the waterfall for an unforgettable experience.

The natural area has a small parking lot a 10-minute hike away from the pools themselves. Those just looking for a relaxing adventure can swim in the top pool around the waterfall.

Others who are more adventurous can rappel down the boulders into the lower lakes with the help of local guides.

5. Cadras Beach – one of the most stunning places to visit in Haiti

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Haiti, Cadras Beach is one of the most stunning locations on Haiti’s northern coast. Located near Grand Doco and only a short ride away from Labadee, it is a convenient excursion for many visitors to this region of Haiti.

Visitors can enjoy clear blue Caribbean waters and sandy shores.

The hinterlands of Cadras Beach are just as beautiful as the seashore. The area is surrounded by gorgeous forests and verdant green areas. Cadras Beach is not fancy, but it offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the beach as the locals do.

Take advantage of activities such as snorkeling and swimming.

6. Jardin Botanique des Cayes – a popular must-see scenic attraction 

Haiti’s tropical location means that it is home to stunning biodiversity and plant life. One of the best ways to experience that biodiversity is by visiting the Jardin Botanique des Cayes , on the country’s southern peninsula.

A popular venue for weddings and other events among the locals and the site of important scientific research, the botanical garden is also a stunning experience for casual visitors.

Wander the perfectly sculpted hedgerows with a certified tour guide, who offers a tourist or scientific tour. Visitors are also free to wander the site on their own and explore the themed gardens, including the Ethnobotanical Garden, the Arboretum, and more.

7. Kokoye Beach – expect beautiful clear water and white sand

One of Haiti’s most stunning beaches, remote Kokoye Beach is worth the trip. It is near Petit Goave, a small commune in the west of the country. Visitors can only get to Kokoye Beach by taking an organized boat excursion from the town or hiking up by themselves.

Once visitors make it to Kokoye, they realize that all the trouble to get there is worth it.

The stunning beach is surrounded by rocky outcrops, which makes for excellent snorkeling and even cave exploring. Besides the natural wonders, Kokoye Beach is home to great restaurants that even host live music.

8. Citadelle – one of the most popular tourist destinations to explore

The Citadelle (full name: Citadelle Laferrière) is one of the most important sites in Haitian history.

The Haitian revolutionary Henri Christophe, along with thousands of newly emancipated Haitian people, built this fortress on the northern coast in 1805 as part of a defense strategy against a potential French invasion.

Architecturally, the Citadelle is one of the few examples of Afro-colonial architecture in the New World and is worth visiting just for its unique architectural features and awe-inspiring size.

The fortress, located on top of the Bonnet a l’Eveque mountain, also offers stunning views of Cap-Haitien and the northern coast. Visitors often combine a visit to the Citadelle with an excursion to nearby Sans-Souci Palace.

9. Macaya National Park – features the country’s last stand of virgin cloud forest

Unfortunately, most of Haiti’s primordial wildlife has been cut down over the centuries, starting with French plantation agriculture and moving on to modern development.

Macaya National Park preserves Haiti’s last primary cloud forest which still has not been touched by modern development. Nestled in the Massif de la Hotte mountain chain that runs through the southern peninsula, Macaya is well worth the trip out.

Besides the old-growth forest, Macaya National Park is home to many species of indigenous plants, including rare orchids, and animals, including the world’s largest concentration of native amphibians.

Visitors can hike up the Macaya and Formon mountains, explore the forest, and take photos of the stunning vegetation.

10. Gelee Beach – the longest sand beach in Haiti

Gelee Beach, near Les Cayes, is one of Haiti’s most popular beaches for a reason. Locals come here for excursions, and it is a great place for visitors to soak up nature and the lively atmosphere of Haiti.

Gelee is a gorgeous beach with access to the stunning ocean, but that is true for most of Haiti’s beaches. What sets Gelee apart is the liveliness of the area. The beach is home to many restaurants that offer locally caught seafood and traditional Haitian cuisine.

Don’t forget to try fritay , the traditional Haitian fried platters of food. At night, the beach turns into an open-air music festival, particularly in August around the festival of the Lady of the Assumption, the area’s patron saint.

11. Saut-Mathurine Waterfall – a stunning natural destination to explore

Haiti’s southern region is home to Saut-Mathurine, the country’s largest waterfall and one of the best places to visit in Haiti off the beaten path.

The pristine waterfall is perfect for nature lovers looking for a destination that has not been touched by development. Getting there is a bit of a trek, with long drives along back roads, but is worth the trip.

Visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall and take in the magnificence of the cascading water. The really brave can jump from the top of the waterfall.

12. Anse d’Azur – a beautiful beach destination with a sunken German U-boat

In a country of stunning beaches, Anse d’Azur, with its turquoise waters and white sands, still stands out.

The beach is nestled in a protected cove on the Haitian coast, making for an excellent swimming experience.

Visitors can also explore the caves and grottos that were formed due to erosion, and the really adventurous can check out the abandoned wreckage of a German submarine nestled in the water.

Anse d’Azur is only a short distance away from the city of Jeremie on the southwestern peninsula.

13. La Visite National Park – one of the best places to visit in Haiti

Located in the Massif de la Selle, a mountain range just south of Port-au-Prince, La Visite National Park is one of the most pristine destinations in the country.

Although Haiti is best known for its tropical cloud forest, La Visite shows another side of the country’s natural diversity. The park covers grasslands, pine forests, and broadleaf trees.

Visitors to La Visite can hike through protected natural landscapes and try to spy some of the 80 bird species that call the park home.

14. Cormier Plage Resort – lush beach-front property in Haiti

For visitors looking for a bit of pampering in a gorgeous natural setting, Cormier Plage Resort near Cap-Haitien is the place to be. It is one of the only beachfront resorts on the northern coasts. Visitors can go on excursions to nearby Labadee, Amiga Island, and the Citadelle.

Those looking for more relaxation than adventure can lounge on the resort’s beaches, go for leisurely swimming and snorkeling excursions in the clear waters, and eat delicious seafood in the resort’s restaurant.

15. Wahoo Bay Beach – a gorgeous beauty spot to explore

Wahoo Bay Beach is another stunning resort and beachfront club, located just a few minutes north of Port-au-Prince. Visitors can enjoy excellent amenities and activities, including tennis, kayaking, lounging on the beach, and excursions to nearby mountains for hiking and climbing.

Wahoo Bay Beach also hosts lively events and nightlife with live music and DJs, adding a little life to the pristine beachfront location.

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that offers both natural beauty and cultural experiences, Haiti is the place to go. It may not be as popular on travel blogs or in magazines as its Caribbean neighbors but it has plenty of interesting sights just waiting to be explored by curious tourists.

You can find beautiful beaches, cascading waterfalls, towering mountains galore…whatever your heart desires! 

We also have posts on…

• The most beautiful places to visit in Cuba
• The most beautiful places to visit in the Dominican Republic
• The most beautiful places to visit in the Bahamas
• The most beautiful places to visit in the Cayman Islands

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Michael Cowley – writer and photographer

Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine – he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter .

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The Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Haiti

Haiti is a piece of paradise taken straight from the movies, with turqoise waves gently lapping at golden shores, misty mountaintops peeking through lush vegetation and spectacular sunsets blanketing the landscape in vivid color. It is located on the second largest island in the Caribbean , Hispaniola, and shares its idyllic setting with the Dominican Republic . If looking for enthralling historical monuments as well as blissful beach beauty, then Haiti is the place to be. Here’s our guide to the most stunning spots in the region.

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Bassin Bleu

Bassin Bleu is a blissfully secluded waterfall on the hills of Jacmel, Haiti. Travelers can follow a trail to the basin and spend a day jumping from the waterfalls, swimming in the turqoise water and enjoying the cool cover of the lush vegetation. The privacy of the spot makes it feel like paradise.

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Address: Bassin-Bleu, Sud-Est, Haiti

Labadee is a private port, and a secluded piece of paradise. Owned by the Royal Caribbean International cruise company, the white sandy beaches and crystal water here make it one of the most enchanting destinations on the island. Besides relaxing on the beach by the blue sea, visitors can shop from a selection of Haitian vendors, participate in watersports or try their hand at a zipline.

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Address: Labadee, Nord, Haiti

Kokoye Beach

Kokoye beach is the idyllic Caribbean haven replicated in holiday brochures worldwide, with fine white sand, turqoise waters and tall, luscious palm trees swaying lazily in the warm breeze. The beach is a top spot for snorkelling, and is a good choice for those wanting to avoid a tummult of tourists; access is only possible via boat or by hiking.

Address: Ravline Paques, Petit Goave, Haiti

Gelee Beach

Gelee Beach is the longest and most romantic stretch of sand in Haiti, with fishing boats bobbing on the horizon and the sweet smell of coconuts in the air. A number of excellent seafood restaurants offer daily deals nearby, and during August the place is packed with enthusiastic dancers and musicians for the Fete Notre Dame festival. A few meters beyond Gelee lie open pasturelands, so don’t be surprised to see a roaming cow or two.

Address: Les Cayes, Haiti

Saut-Mathurine

The largest waterfall in the area, Saut-Mathurine is an alluring cascade in the southwest region of Haiti. The Rivière de Cavaillon provides the source for the waterfall’s stream, and its aqua waters are easily accessible for paddling and swimming. The drive to Saut-Mathurine offers beautiful views of the country and the lush greenery on all sides.

Address: Camp Perrin, Sud, Haiti

Ziplining Tour

Try a zipline in Haiti and enjoy a stunning aerial view of the lush tropical environment and crystal water. Offering a birds-eye view unavailable to walkers, the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line is a particularly popular option on the island, incorporating a drop from the mountaintops down to the beach of Labadee.

Citadelle Laferrière

Archaeological site, Building

Cathedral Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

Cathedral, Church

This Catholic Cathedral is situated in Cap-Haitien, and is a pretty and peaceful place to relax after exploring the surrounding scenery of the colonial town. There is a small park in the front of the church, and the towering white walls are striking against the rows of humble houses all aound. The high-domed interior makes the cathedral equally appealing both inside and outside.

The Palace of Sans-Souci

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THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Haiti

Places to visit in haiti.

Ways to tour Haiti

Tours & Sightseeing

Top Attractions in Haiti

2. The Citadelle

3. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien

4. Bassin Bleu

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Papillon Enterprise

7. Museum Ogier-Fombrun

8. National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers

9. Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

10. Kay Piat

11. Kokoye Beach

12. Amiga Island

Outdoor Activities

Cultural & theme tours, transfers & ground transport.

Popular Cities in Haiti

What travellers are saying

• Amiga Island
• Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
• Papillon Enterprise
• Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien
• Bassin Bleu
• Kokoye Beach
• Jacmel Beach
• Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
• Private Tour of Port Au Prince area
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Port au Prince, Haiti
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Dominican Republic
• Amiga Island Tour From Cap Haitien
• Museum Ogier-Fombrun
• Safe Trips Haïti

Haiti Attractions Information

10 Top Things to Do in Haiti

Even though the country has suffered through poverty, natural disasters, and environmental degradation, Haiti remains proud and carries on. Since the Port au Prince earthquake in 2010 devastated the country, an effort has taken place to not only rebuild the infrastructure for international tourists but reintroduce them to this once-popular Caribbean travel destination. There are still landmarks from the early 19th century—including UNESCO World Heritage Sites—along with many culturally and historically interesting things to see in this country, which takes up almost half of the island of Hispaniola shared with the  Dominican Republic.

Take a Dip at the Bassin Bleu Waterfall

G Adventures / Oana Dragan

Near Jacmel, there is a beautiful waterfall aptly named for the rich cobalt color of its pools. Accessible by a 30-minute hike, after paying parking and entrance fees, the waterfall is made of three natural pools where swimming is allowed. The hike can be rigorous and requires climbing and rappelling over slippery rocks, but you can hire a guide to help you navigate. If it has recently rained, the water might lose its blue color so it is better to wait and visit after a dry spell.

Discover the Flavors of Haitian Cuisine

Steve Depolo / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

While you explore the island, you should not miss out on any opportunity to try traditional Haitian foods. The cuisine of Haiti is heavily influenced by African traditions and tends to be very hearty and meat-centric. One you'll see in just about every restaurant bouillon , a beef stew made with meat and other vegetables.

The national dish is griot , fried pork that has been marinated in a slightly sweet and sour sauce. When you're craving seafood, order the lambi , a grilled conch dish that is unique to the Caribbean. And for dessert, try to get yourself a Haitian beignet, which incorporates bananas and cinnamon.

Tour the Historic Citadelle Laferrière

U.S. Army / Wikimedia Commons

Haiti's rich history includes the most successful slave revolt in the New World, which led directly to the establishment of the independent nation of Haiti in 1804. Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the leader of the revolt, was named emperor of the new nation and ordered the construction of a vast fort atop the Pic Laferrière, near the town of Milot in northern Haiti.

The sturdy construction survives largely intact and, along with the nearby Sans Souci Palace, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can tour the defensive works and see hundreds of cannons and cannonballs, still seemingly ready for action against an attempt by the French to retake the island. Tours can be arranged out of Milot or with a local guide .

Explore Sans Souci Palace

 Steve Bennett / Flickr / CC BY-NC 2.0

Located in Milot (near the city of Cap-Haïtien), Sans Souci was the most elaborate of the many homes and palaces built by Haiti's first king, Henri Christophe. Seen as a symbol of Black Power, the opulent palace completed in 1813 was inspired by European designs and played host to elaborate balls attended by foreign dignitaries.

It was also the place where King Henri I killed himself after suffering a stroke in 1820, and where his son and heir were murdered during a coup that same year. The palace was heavily damaged in an earthquake in 1842, but the ruins hint at the past glory of a palace favorably compared to Versailles in its heyday.

Visit the Unique City Jacmel

Christian Kober / robertharding / Getty Images

As one of the safest places in Haiti, Jacmel has been at the forefront of the country's tourism revival. Founded in 1698, the southern port city of Jacmel , about 25 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince, is a time capsule from the turn of the 20th century, with impressive mansions and urban architecture. Many of these buildings have been turned into galleries and workshops by the city's large population of artists and craftspeople. The Hotel Florita is also little-changed since its construction in 1888, yet is the top-rated hotel in all of Haiti and just a block from the beach.

Venture to Massif de la Hotte and Pic Macaya National Park

Ger Bosma / Getty Images 

Named for the second-highest mountain in Haiti, Pic Macaya National Park, established in 1983, is one of the country's two national parks and is located in the Massif de la Hotte mountain range. UNESCO declared the Massif de la Hotte a Biosphere Reserve in 2016. In a nation that has largely been deforested in the past century, this park of more than 8,000 hectares in the southwestern part of the country contains one of the few remaining cloud forests in Haiti and is a sanctuary for a wide variety of flowering tropical plants like orchids and beyond. It also houses the world's largest population of endangered species, notably endemic birds and amphibians.

Explore the Capital of Port au Prince

GIUGLIO Gil / hemis.fr / Getty Images

Port au Prince , Haiti's capital, was hit hard by the 2010 earthquake, but the city still holds many charms for visitors, such as the upscale Petionville neighborhood, a hillside sanctuary and home to many of the city's better hotels and restaurants.

In the heart of the capital and located in a quaint area, El-Saieh Gallery is a beloved place to visit and retreat from the city life; it's filled with Haitian paintings, wood carvings, beadwork, metalwork, and mosaics. The gallery is near Oloffson Hotel, an interesting location in itself: This 19th-century Gothic mansion in a tropical garden was once home to two previous presidents of Haiti.

Visit the National Museum of Haiti

Sebastien Desarmaux / Getty Images

In Port au Prince, the National Museum of Haiti educates the public on the country from the times of indigenous peoples up until the 1940s. Also of interest is the Musée du Panthéon National Haitien—a tribute to Haiti's national heroes—and the National Museum of Art, featuring pre-Columbian art from around Haiti.

Museum Ogier-Fombrun in Montrouis, a coastal area south of Saint-Marc, is a small but interesting spot to learn about Haitian history through photos and artifacts on an estate built in 1760. The museum is in the main building, which used to be a sugarcane processing area. In Croix-des-Bouquets, about eight miles from Port-au-Prince, head to Village Artistique de Noailles, a community of artists making and selling distinctive metal artwork.

Lounge in Labadee

KenWiedemann / Getty Images

Labadee , a northern coastal peninsula with a pretty beach, is undoubtedly the place in Haiti seen by more international travelers than any other, thanks to Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines establishing a private resort here in 1986. Cruise passengers come onshore via a huge concrete pier and can lounge on the sand, ride waterslides, or snorkel in the ocean. They also engage in activities like ziplining or shopping from (carefully vetted) local merchants. However, the visitors cannot leave to explore elsewhere in Haiti, and most Haitians are kept out by a security system unless they are employees of the property.

Taste Famous Rum in Barbancourt Rum Distillery

 AFP / Getty Images

Founded in Port au Prince in 1862, the double-distilled Barbancourt Rum is one of the country's oldest businesses. The rum is world-famous, having won many competitions, and is possibly Haiti's most prominent export as well. The estate where the sugar cane is grown and the rum is distilled is located about 10 miles outside the city in the town of Damiens; it's open to visitors for tours and tastings, and you can buy their aged and reserve rums at bargain prices here. Reserve a tour ahead of time to learn about the history and production of the popular drink.

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Shutterstock / Sylvie Corriveau

The most common phrase in Haiti might surprise you. It’s 'pa gen pwoblem,' and it translates to 'no have problem.' Haitians use it in a dizzying array of contexts: responding to thank-yous, asserting well-being, filling awkward silences. Despite Haiti’s well-documented struggles, exacerbated lately by natural disasters, proud Haitians use the phrase sincerely, conveying an uncanny ability to live in the moment and appreciate what they do have, which is quite a lot.

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Citadelle Laferrière

Haitians call the Citadelle the eighth wonder of the world and, having slogged to the 900m summit of Pic Laferrière (or ridden horseback for US$15), you…

Your basic paradise, this tiny island offers white sand, a lush core of trees, and turquoise water where snorkelers encounter centuries-old cannon and…

Bassin Bleu

Southern Haiti

Tucked into the mountains 12km northwest of Jacmel, Bassin Bleu is a series of three cobalt-blue pools linked by waterfalls that make up one of the…

Museum of the People

This small jumble of a museum attached to the mission is worth a stop on your way up to Kenscoff. There are taxidermied specimens of Haitian fauna …

Built as a rival to Versailles in France, Henry Christophe’s palace of Sans Souci has lain abandoned since it was ruined in the 1842 earthquake. The years…

Musée du Panthéon National

This modern, mostly subterranean history museum, set below gardens, hosts a permanent exhibition chronicling Haiti’s history, from the Taínos and slavery…

Promenade du Bord de Mer

Installed by ex-President Michel Martelly, this kilometer-long boardwalk along Jacmel's waterfront has become popular with locals as a spot to socialize…

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Home » Travel Guides » The Caribbean » Haiti » 15 Best Things to Do in Haiti

15 Best Things to Do in Haiti

Haiti has been rocked by disastrous earthquakes (the most recent in 2010) and beset by political turmoil in the last century, not to mention overshadowed by the nearby likes of Dominican Republic and Jamaica , meaning this half of Hispaniola Island remains largely undeveloped and untrodden.

However, those who do opt to head to this off-the-beaten-track section of the Greater Antilles are in for a real treat.

Soaring fortresses where slaves once stood strong against the colonial forces of Europe still crown the inland mountains; swathes of sugarcane and greenery sweep through the central Plaine de l’Artibonite, while the rugged peaks of the Chaine de la Selle loom nearly 3,000 meters above the Caribbean Sea.

And then – of course – there are the beaches.

These come fringed with coconut gardens and hammock-strung backpacker guesthouses at Jacamel, shimmering and shining and trodden by countless cruisers at Cap-Haitien, and shrouded by great peaks around pretty Chouchou Bay.

Yep, get here before everyone realises that Haiti’s back on the map folks! To get you started here’s our pick of the best things to do:

1. Scale the La Citadelle la Ferriere

Clinging like a great stone limpet to the ridges of Bonnet a L’Eveque mountain a short drive south out of Cap-Haitien, this colossal fortress (one of the largest in the entire Americas in fact) rarely fails to draw a gasp.

It was raised by the Haitian slave rebels in the early years of the 19th century, intended as a visible bulwark against French invasion in the wake of the country’s newfound independence.

Once upon a time the great crenulations and keeps were dotted with nearly 400 cannons, while today the castle is tagged as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It can be reached on an arduous mountain trail that goes for seven miles into the hills from the town of Milot.

2. Get your fix of art and craft at Jacmel

Sat on the south coast just a short drive from the capital at Port-au-Prince, pretty little Jacmel (a tentative addition to the UNESCO World Heritage list no less) is the reigning arts and crafts kingpin of all Haiti.

Boutique galleries and countless local souvenir emporiums line the tight-knit streets, and it’s possible to purchase the likes of multi-coloured fruit bowls carved out of coconut wood, eerie Voodoo-esque trinkets and reggae-flavored headgear.

Jacmel isn’t just about shopping though.

Not when the town’s got such a pretty municipal beach and promenade, fringed with palm trees and dotted with enticing seafood grills smelling of jerk and spices!

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

Crashing in two mighty streams through the tropical greenery of central Haiti, the Saut-d’Eau are not only famed for their breath-taking natural beauty but also their religious significance.

Held in esteem by both local Voodooists and Catholics, the falls become the focus of a mass pilgrimage each July, when the Our Lady of Carmel festivities take place and Voodoo practitioners come to bathe in the cleansing streams.

The site is a wonder to behold no matter the month though, and offers a prime chance to swim and cool off after hiking through the jungles.

4. Tour the Sans-Souci Palace

Nestled in the northern hills close to the mighty Citadelle la Ferriere, which towers high on the mountaintops above, this crumbling palatial complex was once the home of Henri Christophe, the Haitian king and leader during the wars of independence against the French.

It was built atop an old plantation, mimicking the grandiose styles of European manor houses in a symbolic show of Haitian prowess and superiority.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its great halls and grounds can be toured on trips out of nearby Milot and Cap-Haitien.

Visitors can also see the spot where King Henri committed suicide, supposedly with a silver bullet, in 1820.

5. Hike the Furcy Forest

Adventure travelers heading to Haiti should be sure to make a beeline for the colossal Massif de la Selle, where the legendary Furcy Forest can be found cascading down the ridges and peaks which rise to more than 2,500 meters above the Caribbean Sea.

Famed for their pine forests, wooded trails, and breath-taking panoramas over the roaring waves of the southern coast, these sylvan hills are one of the best places to wax up the walking boots and take to the backcountry.

Popular routes run from the highland towns down to Jacmel, or over the cross-canyon paths to remote and charming Seguin.

6. Taste a famous export at the Barbancourt Distillery

With almost two centuries of trading history, the Barbancourt label is amongst the most iconic in all of Haiti.

Now sold all over the world, this Hispaniolan version of the Caribbean’s most famous liqueur is best sampled in its home: The Barbancourt Distillery in the district of Petionville, Port-au-Prince.

Visits include casual and informative walk-though tours that encompass the brewing rooms and barrel houses, and there’s also plenty of tasting opportunities along the way, not to mention a shop stocked with Barbancourt’s legendary 15-year-old aged rum and other well-known tipples from the brand.

Beware: it’s strong stuff!

7. Unwind in Labadee

Magnet for cruise ships and a favorite of beachcombers, little Labadee is a privately-owned enclave of sand, sea and sun that comes under the Royal Caribbean International banner.

It can be found cut-off form the north coast and Cap-Haitien by a ring of high mountains, separated from the rest of Haiti by a low fence.

Inside the area is where travelers can expect to find a taste of the more traditional Caribbean.

A gorgeous curve of white sand and tropical flower beds and palms all coalesce around the turquoise-blue sea.

Little beach bars bustle with life, and snorkelers bob next to boats along the shore.

Authentic? No.

Gorgeous? Every inch!

8. Taste that Creole kitchen at Lakay

Set to the sounds of reggaeton and samba (played only by local bands, of course), little Lakay is a charming and earthy eatery in Cap-Haitien that’s famed for its mastery of the Creole kitchen.

Ignore the smattering of Italian pizzas on the menu and go for that spiced chicken or the lobster salad topped with cashews – regional favorites.

Dessert wise there’s a medley of chocolate sundaes and brownies, while fruity cocktails like the in-house pina colada are just the perfect accompaniment to sunset sessions on the seafront seats!

9. Cool off in the Bassin Bleu

Just a short jaunt away from the elegant Victorian mansions and old coffee depots of Jacmel, the Bassin Bleu sits concealed in the rocky hills of Haiti.

Gushing and shooting in jets of water, the cataract is a part of the Petite Riviere that runs through the mountains of the south.

Visitors are limited to just a few tour groups per day, but those who do make the journey can wonder at the glimmering plunge pools, which sparkle a deep night-blue thanks to the curious concoction of dissolved minerals within.

There are also oodles of little grottos and caves to see, and – of course – a chance to swim in the midst of the tropical jungle that looms all around in beds of ferns and orchids!

10. Stroll the Grand Rue Musee d’Art

The so-called Grand Rue Musee d’Art can be found sandwiched in the midst of Port-au-Prince’s urban sprawl by a colossal auto repair shop on one side and a junkyard on the other.

Its grandiose name might suggest something regal and historic, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

In fact, Grand Rue is a haphazard and makeshift conglomeration of sculptures and carvings, mechanical figures and art installations made from found materials.

There are human figures created from the gnarled remains of automobile engines.

There are metallic sci-fi productions wrought from axels, and Voodoo effigies with a motorbike edge.

Take a stroll to witness this curious array of homegrown Haitian creativity.

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

If you only intend on hitting one museum when in Haiti, make it the acclaimed Musee du Pantheon National Haitien.

This large concrete building in Port-au-Prince is topped with white cones and mosaic decorations, and houses the country’s most in-depth collections pertaining to national history.

There are exhibitions dedicated to the native Tainos tribes of the island, rooms that unravel stories of the Spanish and French invasions, and other sections that reveal the plight of Haitian independence in the 1800s.

Two real pulls are the silver gun used by Henri Christophe to commit suicide in 1820, and the anchor from Christopher Columbus’ exploring ship!

12. Explore Fort Jacques

Although smaller than its big brother, the colossal La Citadelle la Ferriere, Fort Jacques remains a striking remnant of the great castle building age of Haiti.

Like its compadre on the hill, it was raised by the nationalist powers of the country to fend of French attack in the first decade of the 19th century.

However, Jacques is shrouded by the forests around Port-au-Prince and is less trodden and less busy than Ferriere.

Visitors can tour the crumbling remains of powder houses and arms depots, see rusting cannons and cannon balls on the bulwarks, and enjoy sweeping panoramas over the country’s central plains.

13. Conquer the Pic la Selle

Clocking up a whopping 2,680 meters above sea level, the Pic la Selle is the highest point in Haiti’s Chaine de la Selle, and one of the highest in the entire Caribbean region to boot.

It looms and towers close to the border with the Dominican Republic, and comes crisscrossed by a series of surprisingly accessible tracks and trekking trails.

The most popular route to the top starts at the town of Mare Rouge, weaves through some thinning pine forests and past a series of rustic little farming hamlets before hitting the summit.

The trip affords sweeping panoramic views over the southern ranges, not to mention the cooling breezes of the Haitian highlands along the way!

14. Grab a bite on Gelee Beach

Gelee Beach (known locally as Les Cayes) is best-known for the rambunctious meringue music festival that erupts between its lawns and beaches each year, drawing in kompas bands and dancers aplenty.

However, the little spot on the southern shore is a real treat no matter the month, largely thanks to the smattering of conch and seafood eateries that ring its sands.

Head down and settle in one of the beachside restaurants where the smells of Creole barbeque and spices issue from the kitchens, and lobster dishes meet mouth-watering breadfruit platters and tonm-tonm on the menus – perfect for the foodies!

15. Haggle around the Marche an Fer

Rising in a mass of red and green iron in the very midst of the Haitian capital, the historic Marche an Fer still pulses with local life and produce throughout the week.

Now considered something of a national symbol, this colossal bazaar was first raised in the 1890s (notice the curious oriental architectural style – the building was originally intended for Cairo, Egypt!). Since then it’s hosted some of the best craft and food stalls on the island.

Head down to haggle your way through Voodoo trinkets and stacks of jackfruit, fresh fish and curious artistic carvings alike!

15 Best Things to Do in Haiti:

• Scale the La Citadelle la Ferriere
• Get your fix of art and craft at Jacmel
• Go on Voodoo pilgrimage to Saut-d'Eau
• Tour the Sans-Souci Palace
• Hike the Furcy Forest
• Taste a famous export at the Barbancourt Distillery
• Unwind in Labadee
• Taste that Creole kitchen at Lakay
• Cool off in the Bassin Bleu
• Stroll the Grand Rue Musee d'Art
• Whiz up on local history at the Musee du Pantheon National Haitien
• Explore Fort Jacques
• Conquer the Pic la Selle
• Grab a bite on Gelee Beach
• Haggle around the Marche an Fer

Haiti Places to Visit

• What to see

Popular Cities and Locations in Haiti

List of 10 most visited cities and other travel destinations in Haiti.

Port-au-Prince

Cap-Haïtien

Île à Vache

La Visite National Park

Natural attraction

Monuments and statues.

• Forts and castles
• Historical place

Haiti Top Attractions

Haiti popular and famous things to see.

Sans-Souci Palace, Milot

The Palace of Sans-Souci was the principal royal residence of Henry I, King of Haiti, better known as Henri Christophe. It is located in the town of Milot, approximately five kilometres northeast of the Citadelle Laferrière, and thirteen kilometres southwest of the Three Bays Protected Area.

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Port-au-Prince

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, often called Port-au-Prince Cathedral, was a cathedral in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Built between 1884 and 1914, it was dedicated on December 13, 1928, and became the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince.

Citadelle Laferrière, Milot

The Citadelle Laferrière or, Citadelle Henri Christophe, or simply the Citadelle, is a large early 19th-century fortress situated on the Bonnet à l'Evêque mountaintop in Nord, Haiti.

Mupanah, Port-au-Prince

The Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien is a museum featuring the heroes of the independence of Haiti and the Haitian history and culture.

National Museum of Art, Port-au-Prince

The National Museum of Art is in central Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The museum contains pre-Columbian works of art from all over the country.

St. Louis King of France Cathedral, Jérémie

The St. Louis King of France Cathedral is a religious building belonging to the Catholic Church and is located in the town of Jérémie in the Caribbean and island country of Haiti.

National Library of Haiti, Port-au-Prince

The National Library of Haiti is Haiti's legal deposit library, with a collection of approximately 26,000 volumes. It is located in the capital, Port-au-Prince and is the principal library of the city. The current head of the library is Monsieur Emmanuel Ménard.

Croix-des-Bouquets, Port-au-Prince

Croix-des-Bouquets is a commune in the Ouest department of Haiti. It is located 12.9 kilometers to the northeast of Haiti's capital city, Port-au-Prince. Originally located on the shore, it was relocated inland after the 1770 Port-au-Prince earthquake. Due to this fact, it was not as badly affected in the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

Kenscoff, Port-au-Prince

Kenscoff is a commune in the Port-au-Prince Arrondissement, in the Ouest department of Haiti, located in the foothills of the Chaîne de la Selle mountain range, some 10 kilometres to the southeast of the capital city of Port-au-Prince.

Rex Theater, Port-au-Prince

The Rex Theater is a theater in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, that was opened in October, 1935. It was built by the Société Haïtienne des Spectacles, led by Daniel Brun. The theater seated 1200 people and was managed by Mrs. Muffat Taldy until 1951.

Supreme Court of Haiti, Port-au-Prince

The Supreme Court of Haiti is the highest court in the Haitian legal system. The Supreme Court building is located in Port-au-Prince.

Labadie, Cap-Haïtien

Labadee is a port located on the northern coast of Haiti within the arrondissement of Cap-Haïtien in the Nord department. It is a private resort leased to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for the exclusive use of passengers of its three cruise lines: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara Club Cruises, until 2050.

Things to See and Do by Category

Interesting and worth visiting places and tourist attractions appreciated by most tourists. See the list of places to visit when planning a trip to Haiti.

Sans-Souci Palace

Citadelle Laferrière

National Museum of Art

National Museum of Haiti

maison de tourisme

Musée d’Ethnologie

Parc Historique de la Canne à Sucre

Croix-des-Bouquets

Pétion-Ville

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

St. Louis King of France Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Cathedrale Notre Dame

Place Sainte Anne

Place Saint-Pierre

Place Philippe Gerrier

Port international du Cap-Haïtien

Port international de Port-au-Prince

Morne Bois-Pin

Morne du Cibao

Morne Blanche

Tourist Market

Marché en Fer

Rex Theater

French Culture Institute of Haiti

Rue Chrétien

Rue Savannah

National Library of Haiti

Initiative de Compostage Communautaire

Universities and schools.

Adventist University of Haiti

State University of Haiti

Quisqueya University

Université d'État d'Haïti

Université Notre Dame d'Haïti

Galerie Monnin

Galerie Marassa

Le Marron Inconnu

Kay Sam Art

Saint-Marc expo galerie oeuvre artisanat

Lakou New York

Terminal Ile à Vache

Plage Touloulou beach de vaudreuil

plage de lasaline

plage de belecou bientot

Rival Plage

Laplain Jean

Neighbourhood.

Regions to visit in haiti

Choose your language

Visit Haiti

Things to do

Waterfall in Furcy

Photo: Verdy Verna

Planning your holiday to Haiti? Get inspired with these attractions and adventures worth adding to your itinerary.

See wildlife up close

Take a self-guided tour of Haiti's gingerbread houses

Explore Jérémie

Explore Pestel

About 40 miles east of the town of Jérémie on Haiti's southern peninsula, Pestel is a small harbour town full of culture, offering cinematic sunrises, sunsets and laidback charm. From its rustic seaside markets to unexpected caves and islands, Pestel is not to be missed if you're touring Haiti's southeast.

Have you tried these 7 Haitian summer flavours?

Follow the trail of the vodou pilgrimage to Saut d'Eau

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Top Things to Do in Haiti, Caribbean - Haiti Attractions

Things to do in haiti.

Ways to tour Haiti

Tours & Sightseeing

Top Attractions in Haiti

2. The Citadelle

3. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien

4. Bassin Bleu

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Papillon Enterprise

7. Museum Ogier-Fombrun

8. National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers

9. Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

10. Kay Piat

11. Kokoye Beach

12. Amiga Island

Outdoor Activities

Cultural & theme tours, transfers & ground transport.

Popular Cities in Haiti

What travellers are saying

• Amiga Island
• Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
• Papillon Enterprise
• Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien
• Bassin Bleu
• Kokoye Beach
• Jacmel Beach
• Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
• Private Tour of Port Au Prince area
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Port au Prince, Haiti
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Dominican Republic
• Amiga Island Tour From Cap Haitien
• Museum Ogier-Fombrun
• Safe Trips Haïti

Haiti Attractions Information

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Haiti

Things to do in haiti.

Ways to tour Haiti

Tours & Sightseeing

Top Attractions in Haiti

2. The Citadelle

3. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien

4. Bassin Bleu

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Papillon Enterprise

7. Museum Ogier-Fombrun

8. National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers

9. Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

10. Kay Piat

11. Kokoye Beach

12. Amiga Island

Outdoor Activities

Cultural & theme tours, transfers & ground transport.

Popular Cities in Haiti

What travellers are saying

• Amiga Island
• Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
• Papillon Enterprise
• Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien
• Bassin Bleu
• Kokoye Beach
• Jacmel Beach
• Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
• Private Tour of Port Au Prince area
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Port au Prince, Haiti
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Dominican Republic
• Amiga Island Tour From Cap Haitien
• Museum Ogier-Fombrun
• Safe Trips Haïti

Haiti Attractions Information

Top Things to Do in Haiti

Things to do in haiti.

Ways to tour Haiti

Tours & Sightseeing

Top Attractions in Haiti

2. The Citadelle

3. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien

4. Bassin Bleu

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Papillon Enterprise

7. Museum Ogier-Fombrun

8. National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers

9. Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

10. Kay Piat

11. Kokoye Beach

12. Amiga Island

Outdoor Activities

Cultural & theme tours, transfers & ground transport.

Popular Cities in Haiti

What travelers are saying

• Amiga Island
• Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
• Papillon Enterprise
• Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien
• Bassin Bleu
• Kokoye Beach
• Jacmel Beach
• Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
• Private Tour of Port Au Prince area
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Port au Prince, Haiti
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Dominican Republic
• Amiga Island Tour From Cap Haitien
• Museum Ogier-Fombrun
• Safe Trips Haïti
• A Paradise Cove Escape and Haitian Village Experience

Haiti Attractions Information

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Haiti

Things to do in haiti.

Ways to tour Haiti

Tours & Sightseeing

Top Attractions in Haiti

2. The Citadelle

3. Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien

4. Bassin Bleu

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Papillon Enterprise

7. Museum Ogier-Fombrun

8. National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers

9. Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien

10. Kay Piat

11. Kokoye Beach

12. Amiga Island

Outdoor Activities

Cultural & theme tours, transfers & ground transport.

Popular Cities in Haiti

What travellers are saying

• Amiga Island
• Musee du Pantheon National Haïtien
• Papillon Enterprise
• Cathedrale Notre Dame de Cap Haitien
• Bassin Bleu
• Kokoye Beach
• Jacmel Beach
• Citadelle Laferrière & Sans Souci Palace Half Day
• Private Tour of Port Au Prince area
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Port au Prince, Haiti
• Citadelle Fortress & San Souci Palace from Dominican Republic
• Amiga Island Tour From Cap Haitien
• Museum Ogier-Fombrun
• Safe Trips Haïti
• A Paradise Cove Escape and Haitian Village Experience

Haiti Attractions Information