Things To Do
in Carrefour

Carrefour, Haiti is a bustling commune located just west of Port-au-Prince, known for its vibrant culture and dynamic community. It serves as a significant residential area and commercial hub, with a mix of urban and rural environments. The landscape is characterized by hills and valleys, providing stunning views of the surrounding region.

Carrefour is also rich in history and local traditions, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Marché de Carrefour, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and shop for fresh produce and handmade goods.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby Fort Jacques, a historic fortification with panoramic views of the area and an insight into Haiti's colonial history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the streets to experience the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catch a live music performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby hills of La Visite National Park, where you can enjoy the lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Parc de Martissant, a beautiful urban park where you can relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the local flora.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and then explore some local bars to experience the nightlife, perhaps checking out a local dance club.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5-$10
🚕Taxi Ride (within the city)$3-$5
🛒Grocery Shopping (Weekly)$30-$50
🍺Domestic Beer$2-$4
Coffee at a Café$1-$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant markets.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Safety concerns in certain areas.
  • Limited healthcare facilities.
  • Infrastructure challenges and traffic congestion.
  • "Mwen renmen ou" - I love you
  • "Ki jan ou ye?" - How are you?
  • "Mwen bezwen èd" - I need help
  • "Kijan sa k ap pase?" - What's happening?
  • "Mesi" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Carrefour

Visit one of these nice places.

Fort Jacques

Offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and a glimpse into Haiti's history.

Parc de Martissant

A lush urban park filled with colorful flowers and local wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Marché de Carrefour

Capture the vibrant colors and hustle of the local market, showcasing daily life in Carrefour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Carrefour

Carrefour offers a rich culinary scene that reflects the vibrant culture of Haiti. From street vendors to sit-down restaurants, there are plenty of options to explore local flavors.

Carrefour Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Griot

Fried pork marinated in citrus and spices, often served with pikliz, a spicy pickled vegetable relish.

Must-Try!

Djon Djon Rice

A unique rice dish made with black mushrooms, giving it a distinct flavor and color.

Pikliz

A spicy condiment made from pickled vegetables, typically served with grilled meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Carrefour

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional street food like fried plantains and akra.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling snacks like pate kode (fried pastry filled with meat) and sweet coconut treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Carrefour experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a wet and dry season. Average temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) throughout the year. The dry season from December to April is marked by lower humidity and minimal rainfall, while the rainy season from May to November can see heavy showers, particularly during hurricanes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with a handshake and a friendly smile; it's an important part of Haitian culture.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals; it's a significant cultural norm in Haiti.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Carrefour is generally safe for tourists, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when traveling at night. Familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts and stay informed about any travel advisories.

Tipping in Carrefour

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, but check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially in smaller establishments. ATMs are available in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - April)

Expect pleasant weather with less rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainy Season (May - November)

Prepare for heavy rains and potential flooding, but also lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Hurricane Season (June - November)

Stay informed about weather forecasts, as storms can impact travel plans.

Holiday Season (December)

Experience vibrant local festivals, especially around Christmas and New Year, with unique cultural celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Carrefour at Night

Carrefour's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with a mix of bars, clubs, and street music. The local scene often features live music, especially Kompa and Racine genres, reflecting the rich cultural heritage. Many establishments come alive in the evening, offering a chance to dance, socialize, and enjoy the local spirit.

Hiking in Carrefour

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Visite National Park Trail

This trail offers a scenic hike through diverse ecosystems, ideal for nature lovers.

Pic Macaya National Park Trail

A challenging hike with rewarding views and a chance to see unique wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Carrefour by plane.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Carrefour, this is the main international airport serving Port-au-Prince and offers flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Carrefour is moderately walkable, with many local shops and markets within walking distance in certain areas. However, the overall infrastructure can be challenging, with uneven sidewalks and limited pedestrian crossings. It is advisable to remain cautious when walking alongside busy roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban Residents

Many residents are involved in commerce and trade, reflecting the economic activities of the area.

Rural Communities

Surrounding areas are home to agricultural communities, contributing to the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Haiti, with many local teams and community leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with many local courts available for community games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Carrefour can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include tap-tap (shared taxis) and buses, which are affordable but can be crowded. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly and be patient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Carrefour.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified for vegetarian diets, particularly with vegetable-based dishes and rice.

Gluten-Free

Rice and beans are staples in Haitian cuisine, offering many gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Carrefour can be limited, with basic clinics available but fewer advanced facilities. Serious medical issues may require travel to Port-au-Prince for treatment. It is recommended to have travel insurance and be aware of local hospitals.

Discover Haiti

Read more in our Haiti 2025 Travel Guide.

Haiti Travel Guide