Haiti 6 Day Itinerary

Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Haiti

Day 1: Cap-Haïtien (Sans-Souci & Milot)

  • Morning: Arrive at Cap-Haïtien Airport, transfer to hotel and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the nearby Royal Palace of Henry Christophe (Ruines Sans-Souci).
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant local market of Cap-Haïtien and try some local Haitian cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Cap-Haïtien is known as the “Pearl of the North” and is the second largest city in Haiti.
  • The Citadelle Laferrière was built by Henri Christophe between 1805 and 1820 to protect his kingdom from Napoleon’s troops.
  • Don’t forget to bargain at local markets.

Day 2: Gonaïves & Petionville

  • Morning: Travel to Gonaïves, the birthplace of Haiti’s independence. Visit the Museum of Haitian National Pantheon and explore the local art scene.
  • Afternoon: Head to Petionville, a bustling suburb of Port-au-Prince. Visit the Château de la Plaine, a museum dedicated to former Haitian President François Duvalier.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Petionville.

Things to Know:

  • Gonaïves is the birthplace of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the first ruler of independent Haiti.
  • Château de la Plaine was built in 1824 by King Henri Christophe as a summer residence and later used by François Duvalier, also known as “Papa Doc”.

Day 3: Port-au-Prince

  • Morning: Visit the National Palace, the Presidential residence that was severely damaged in the 2010 earthquake.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Musee du Pantheon National Haitien, which houses artifacts and exhibits about Haiti’s history and culture.
  • Evening: Stroll along Boulevard Charlemagne Peralte, a lively pedestrian street lined with restaurants and shops.

Things to Know:

  • The 2010 earthquake caused extensive damage in Port-au-Prince, but the city is gradually rebuilding.
  • Boulevard Charlemagne Peralte is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Day 4: Bassin Bleu & Wahoo Bay

  • Morning: Travel to Bassin Bleu, a series of crystal-clear natural pools surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Afternoon: Head to Wahoo Bay, a beautiful beach with clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
  • Evening: Return to Port-au-Prince and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • Bassin Bleu is located in the hills about 1.5 hours from Port-au-Prince. It’s best to go early in the day as it can get crowded.
  • Wahoo Bay is located near the town of Labadie and is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers.

Day 5: Jacmel

  • Morning: Travel to Jacmel, a charming coastal town known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations. Visit the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and the Freres Rouges Museum.
  • Afternoon: Explore the local art scene, particularly the metal sculptures for which Jacmel is famous.
  • Evening: Enjoy a beach sunset at Grande Rivière de la Caille.

Things to Know:

  • Jacmel’s Carnival, held in February, is one of the most colorful and lively celebrations in Haiti.
  • Grande Rivière de la Caille is a beautiful black sand beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time to visit the Mesye Artisanat Coopérative, a fair trade art gallery and workshop in Port-au-Prince.
  • Afternoon: Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of most countries require a tourist visa to enter Haiti. Check the latest requirements with your local embassy or consulate.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are the most common form of transportation in Haiti, although rental cars are also available. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.