whatdo

Things To Do
in Marigot

Day Trips

Adventures

Marigot is a coastal town located on the southern coast of Haiti, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. The town is nestled between lush green mountains and the turquoise Caribbean Sea, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. Marigot is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with plenty of coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by sampling traditional Haitian cuisine and shopping for handmade crafts in the town's markets.

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4.8(6)

Nature Combo Oviedo Lagoon & Bahia de las Aguilas

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5.0(7)

Untouched Paradise – Bahía de Las Águilas

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4.9(7)

Lake Enriquillo

  • "Mwen renmen ou" - I love you
  • "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
  • "Mwen bezwen sa" - I need this
  • "Tanpri, ede mwen" - Please help me
  • "M ap vini" - I am coming

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Marigot's Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing swim at the pristine Plage de Marigot. Enjoy the sunrise while sipping coconut water from a local vendor.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby beach restaurant, take a leisurely stroll along the shore to discover hidden coves. Try some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding for an adrenaline rush.

evening
:

Watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors while dining at a beachfront restaurant. End the night with live music from local bands.

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Flamingo Island - Laguna Oviedo

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ALL INCLUSIVE Safari Tour Bahía de las Águilas from Barahona

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Private Tour with Crocodile Sighting in Lake Enrriquillo

day 2
Nature and Culture Day
morning
:

Begin by hiking to the nearby hills for panoramic views of Marigot and the Caribbean Sea. It's a great way to connect with nature and get some exercise.

afternoon
:

Visit a local museum to learn about the history and culture of Haiti, immersing yourself in the art and artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to buy handmade crafts from local artists.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that serves traditional Haitian cuisine and request some entertainment from local musicians. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Marigot.

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Private Full Day Tour to Laguna de Oviedo

Marigot Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Vibrant local markets and cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming community
  • Opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities
  • Economic challenges and high poverty rates
  • Infrastructure issues, including unreliable utilities
  • Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities
  • Potential for natural disasters, such as hurricanes
  • Concerns around safety and crime rates

Best Activities in Marigot

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Beach lounging at Gelée Beach

Relax on the white sandy shores of Gelée Beach and soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy beachside activities like beach volleyball and picnicking.

Exploring Bassin Bleu

Embark on a hiking adventure to explore the stunning waterfalls and natural pools at Bassin Bleu, perfect for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Cultural visit to Fort Drouet

Discover the historical Fort Drouet, an old fortress with panoramic views of the surrounding area, offering a mix of history and outdoor exploration.

Tours

Uncover the best of Marigot with these unforgettable tours.

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Private Full Day Tour to Laguna de Oviedo

Marigot Tours

Places to Visit in Marigot

Visit one of these nice places.

Fort Anglais

Offers stunning panoramic views of Marigot Bay and the surrounding area

Marigot Bay Beach

Beautiful beach with picturesque views, ideal for photography

Mount La Selle

Provides breathtaking vistas of the coastline and the bay

Food in Marigot

Marigot, Haiti offers a vibrant and flavorful culinary scene influenced by French, African, and Caribbean traditions. The cuisine is rich in tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and bold spices, promising a delightful culinary experience for visitors.

Marigot Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Lobster

Succulent lobster, seasoned and grilled to perfection, is a must-try delicacy in Marigot. Visit beachside restaurants like Chez Maggy for a memorable taste of this local favorite.

Must-Try!

Pikliz

Pikliz, a spicy slaw of pickled vegetables, is a popular condiment in Haitian cuisine. Enjoy it as a zesty accompaniment to various dishes at local eateries and markets.

Fritay

Fritay, a platter of fried treats like plantains, pork, and accra (malanga fritters), can be savored at street stalls or Fritay trucks across Marigot, offering a true taste of authentic street food culture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Ennery

Explore Marché Ennery for an array of fresh produce, spices, and locally-made goods. The market also offers an opportunity to sample a variety of traditional snacks and street foods, such as pate kode and griot.

Rue des Miracles

Rue des Miracles is a bustling street known for its vibrant street food scene. Visitors can indulge in an assortment of grilled meats, seafood, and savory snacks from the many vendors lining the lively thoroughfare.

Weather

The climate in this coastal region is classified as tropical, characterized by a warm and humid environment throughout the year. Temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (approximately 24°C to 35°C). The area experiences a wet season from May to October, during which rainfall is more frequent, with peak precipitation occurring between August and October. The dry season, from November to April, brings lower humidity and less rainfall. Additionally, this region can be susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November. Overall, the climate supports lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems, typical of Caribbean environments.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is customary to greet people with a handshake, and it is considered polite to use titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing others.

Respect for Elders

In Marigot, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures when interacting with them.

Dress Code

When visiting Marigot, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in community events.

Safety

Safety in this region can be a concern due to various factors, including economic challenges and political instability that can affect daily life. Crime rates, particularly in urban areas, can be elevated, with issues such as theft and other violent crimes reported. It’s important for visitors to remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and stay within safer neighborhoods. Travelers should also keep informed about local conditions and follow any advisories from their governments. Engaging with the local community, using trusted guides for navigation, and adhering to established safety guidelines can enhance personal safety. In more rural areas, interactions with locals often provide insights into safe practices and areas to avoid. Overall, while the potential for safety risks exists, being cautious and informed can help ensure a safer experience.

Tipping in Marigot

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Marigot, Haiti, it is customary to leave a 10% - 15% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not already included in the bill. Additionally, tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated.

Payment

Cash is the primary form of payment in Marigot, Haiti. Credit cards may be accepted at some hotels and larger businesses, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for most transactions. ATMs are available in the town for cash withdrawals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (November to March)

Best time to visit Marigot, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Expect vibrant landscapes and outdoor activities.

Rainy season (April to October)

Expect lush greenery, occasional rain showers, and fewer tourists. May experience some humidity and higher chance of rain.

Marigot at Night

In Marigot, Haiti, nightlife offers a blend of local culture, music, and community gatherings that reflect the town's vibrant spirit. Evening activities often include lively street parties where the rhythmic beats of Kompa and traditional Haitian music fill the air. Bars and small clubs in the area serve local drinks, and many feature live bands or DJs, providing an authentic Haitian entertainment experience. Food is also a significant part of the nightlife, with street vendors and small eateries offering local delicacies such as griot (fried pork), plantains, and spicy pikliz, a pickled vegetable relish. The social atmosphere is friendly, with locals and visitors mingling easily, sharing stories, and enjoying each other's company. Cultural events often take place at night, including dance performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals that showcase the rich heritage of Haiti. These events are an excellent way for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. Overall, the nightlife in Marigot is a vibrant and integral part of its culture, where music, dance, food, and social interactions come together to create memorable experiences.

Hiking in Marigot

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pic la Selle

The highest peak in Haiti, offering challenging trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

La Visite National Park

A protected area featuring diverse ecosystems, lush forests, and a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.

Massif de la Hotte

A mountain range with various trails, providing opportunities for hiking amidst beautiful landscapes and unique flora and fauna.

Citadelle Laferrière Trail

A historical trail that leads to the Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with breathtaking views along the way.

Mornes des Dunes

A scenic hiking area with trails that offer views of the coastline and the chance to experience local wildlife.

Aiports

How to reach Marigot by plane.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP)

Located in Port-au-Prince, approximately 60 km from Marigot, this is the main international airport in Haiti.

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)

Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, about 200 km from Marigot, it serves as a major hub for international flights in the Caribbean.

Cayo Largo del Sur Airport (CYO)

Located on Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba, approximately 260 km from Marigot, this airport handles international flights and is a popular destination in the region.

Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP)

Located in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, about 350 km from Marigot, this airport provides access to the north coast of the Dominican Republic.

Walkability

In this coastal town, walkability is shaped by the availability of paths, the density of development, and the overall urban design. With its charming streets featuring local shops, markets, and community spaces, pedestrians can navigate through town to access daily necessities and engage with the vibrant local culture. The relatively modest size of the area encourages walking as a practical means of transportation. However, infrastructure challenges such as uneven pavements, limited sidewalks, and occasional road obstacles can impact the ease of walking. Tropical weather conditions also play a role, sometimes making outdoor movement less favorable during peak heat or rain. The presence of local amenities within close proximity enhances the appeal for residents and visitors alike, fostering a community atmosphere. Overall, while there are both strengths and weaknesses related to walkability, the environment encourages a significant amount of pedestrian activity and social interaction.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Haitian Creole Speakers

The predominant language spoken in Marigot, reflecting the cultural identity of the population.

Cultural Practitioners

Individuals involved in traditional Haitian music, dance, and art, contributing to the local heritage.

Agricultural Workers

Many residents engage in agriculture, reflecting the local economy focused on farming and fishing industries.

Youth Population

A significant portion of the community comprises young people, representing future demographic trends.

Elderly Residents

An important demographic group providing wisdom and continuity of cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Marigot, as in much of Haiti. It is played in streets, fields, and local leagues, attracting players of all ages.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Marigot, with many local courts and enthusiastic fans. It is particularly popular among the youth.

Baseball

Baseball has a significant following in Marigot, influenced by nearby countries where the sport is popular. Local teams compete in community leagues.

Volleyball

Volleyball is enjoyed recreationally on beaches and in local parks, with both formal and informal games taking place throughout the area.

Track and Field

Track and field events are popular in schools and local competitions, promoting athleticism and community involvement in physical education.

Traffic

In this coastal town, traffic can be described as a blend of various modes of transportation, including motorcycles, tap-taps (shared taxis), and private vehicles. The narrow roads are often bustling, especially during peak hours, with pedestrians mingling amongst the vehicles. Haphazard parking and informal roadside vendors can contribute to congestion. Additionally, road conditions may vary, with some areas having potholes or uneven pavement, which affects the flow of traffic. Local driving habits tend to be assertive, reflecting a common characteristic of urban traffic in the region. Overall, navigating the streets often requires patience and attentiveness to the constantly changing environment.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Marigot.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Haitian cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, several restaurants in Marigot offer vegetarian and vegan versions of local dishes, including plantain-based entrees, legume stews, and fresh fruit platters.

Gluten-free Choices

Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options at various establishments, such as rice-based dishes, grilled fish or meats, and tropical fruit smoothies, ensuring an inclusive dining experience in Marigot.

Healthcare

In rural areas of Haiti, access to healthcare can be quite limited, presenting significant challenges for the local population. Facilities may often include small clinics or dispensaries, which are typically staffed by nurses or community health workers rather than physicians. These healthcare centers face issues such as inadequate supplies, lack of essential medications, and insufficient funding, which can hinder their ability to provide comprehensive care. The healthcare system struggles with high rates of infectious diseases, maternal and child health issues, and malnutrition, particularly in impoverished communities. Preventive care services, such as vaccinations and health education, are critical yet often under-resourced. Community health initiatives are important in improving access to care. Organizations often work alongside local leaders to educate residents about health issues and promote better practices regarding sanitation, nutrition, and family planning. Emergency care is limited, requiring individuals to travel significant distances for more advanced services, often resulting in delayed treatment. Overall, while there are efforts to improve the healthcare landscape, significant challenges remain due to economic constraints, infrastructure deficits, and a need for more trained healthcare professionals.

Discover Haiti

Read more in our Haiti 2024 Travel Guide.

Haiti Travel Guide