whatdo

Things To Do
in Port-au-Prince

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

The capital city of Haiti is a vibrant, bustling hub with a rich tapestry of history and culture, set against the backdrop of stunning mountain ranges. Notorious for its challenges, including infrastructure issues and the devastating 2010 earthquake, it remains a place where resilience and spirited community life shine through.

Among its notable features are the Iron Market, vibrant street art, and historical landmarks that paint a picture of its complex past and hopeful future.

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4.8(6)

Nature Combo Oviedo Lagoon & Bahia de las Aguilas

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4.8(6)

Lake Enriquillo

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5.0(6)

Untouched Paradise – Bahía de Las Águilas

  • "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): $15 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Port-au-Prince
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Iron Market, a bustling hub filled with local crafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a traditional Haitian breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien to learn about the country's history and culture. Take a leisurely walk through the Champs de Mars for beautiful views of the nearby monuments.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying dishes like griot or joumou soup. End the evening with live music at a local venue for an immersive cultural experience.

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Flamingo Island - Laguna Oviedo

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4.3(6)

Larimar Mine Tour

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Private Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) Transfers To Pedernales & Barahona Hotels

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin with a guided tour of the vibrant art scene in Port-au-Prince, visiting galleries and street art. Engage with local artists to understand their inspirations and techniques.

afternoon
:

Visit the National Palace for a glimpse into the country's political history. Spend some time at the Parc de Martissant, enjoying the natural beauty and people-watching.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a gourmet restaurant that showcases traditional Haitian cuisine. Attend a performance at a local theater or cultural center to experience Haitian folklore.

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ALL INCLUSIVE Safari Tour Bahía de las Águilas from Barahona

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Private Full Day Tour to Laguna de Oviedo

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Private Tour with Crocodile Sighting in Lake Enrriquillo

Port-au-Prince Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant culture and strong sense of community.
  • Rich history and historical landmarks.
  • Beautiful landscapes and proximity to stunning beaches.
  • Delicious local cuisine and tropical fruits.
  • Unique art scene with many local artists and craftsmen.
  • High levels of poverty and unemployment.
  • Frequent political instability and social unrest.
  • Limited access to healthcare and education services.
  • Infrastructure challenges, including poor roads and unreliable utilities.
  • Vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes.

Best Activities in Port-au-Prince

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Bassin Bleu

Explore the natural pools and waterfalls at Bassin Bleu, ideal for swimming and hiking.

Parc National La Visite

Enjoy hiking and nature walks in the picturesque Parc National La Visite, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Plage de Port Salut

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Plage de Port Salut and take part in water sports activities.

Explore the Iron Market (Marché en Fer)

Discover local crafts and vibrant market atmosphere at the Iron Market, a unique cultural experience.

Tours

Uncover the best of Port-au-Prince with these unforgettable tours.

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ALL INCLUSIVE Safari Tour Bahía de las Águilas from Barahona

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Private Full Day Tour to Laguna de Oviedo

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Private Tour with Crocodile Sighting in Lake Enrriquillo

Port-au-Prince Tours

Places to Visit in Port-au-Prince

Visit one of these nice places.

Boutilliers Observatory

Offers stunning panoramic views of Port-au-Prince and the surrounding area.

Fort Jacques

Provides picturesque views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

Food in Port-au-Prince

Haitian cuisine is a rich tapestry of African, French, and indigenous influences, resulting in a diverse and flavorful culinary experience. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients such as plantains, rice, beans, and seafood, Port-au-Prince offers a variety of delectable dishes, vibrant food markets, and charming restaurants and cafes.

Port-au-Prince Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Griot

Juicy, marinated pork chunks served with rice and beans, often found at local eateries like Le Marche de Fer or at street vendors.

Must-Try!

Tasso Kabrit

Spiced and stewed goat meat, a traditional Haitian dish that can be savored at restaurants like Quartier Latin or Marche en Fer.

Pumpkin Soup (Soup Joumou)

A savory soup made with pureed pumpkin, meat, and vegetables, typically enjoyed on Haitian Independence Day (January 1st), available at venues such as Magdoos or street food stalls.

Accra

Fritters made of malanga (taro root) or cod, often served as a popular street food snack around Champs de Mars or local markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché en Fer

A bustling iron market where local vendors sell an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food delicacies like akra (fritters) and grillo (spiced pork).

Champs de Mars

A central square that transforms into a vibrant street food hub in the evenings, offering an assortment of traditional Haitian snacks and dishes.

Weather

The climate is classified as tropical, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures typically remain warm throughout the year, averaging around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day. The wet season generally runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between August and September. This period also coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, which can bring severe weather to the region. The dry season, from November to April, features lower humidity and decreased rainfall, making it a more comfortable time for outdoor activities. Due to its coastal location, there is often a refreshing breeze, especially in the evenings. However, during the hotter months, particularly in the peak of the dry season, temperatures can feel quite high and humidity can become uncomfortable. Overall, the climate can greatly influence local lifestyles, agriculture, and economic activities in the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Port-au-Prince, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with a polite tone and using appropriate titles such as 'Mèt' for men and 'Manman' for women.

Greeting Etiquette

Greetings are an important part of Haitian culture. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile, and a light embrace may also be used as a form of greeting among friends and family.

Dress Code

When visiting Port-au-Prince, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or in more traditional areas of the city. Respect for local dressing norms is highly valued.

Safety

Safety in the capital of Haiti can be a significant concern for both residents and visitors. The city has faced persistent challenges, including political instability, economic difficulties, and high levels of crime. Issues such as gang violence, kidnapping, and armed robbery are prevalent, particularly in certain neighborhoods. There is often a lack of law enforcement presence in some areas, which exacerbates the security situation. Travel advisories frequently recommend exercising caution, avoiding certain parts of the city, and being mindful of personal safety measures. Municipal services and infrastructure can also be strained, making emergency response less reliable. Additionally, economic hardship can lead to increased desperation among the population, contributing to volatile situations. For those living in or traveling to the area, staying informed about the local conditions, maintaining a low profile, and utilizing trusted local contacts for guidance are important strategies for navigating the safety landscape. Security measures, such as using secure transportation and avoiding nighttime travel, are also recommended for better protection.

Tipping in Port-au-Prince

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not usually expected in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, a small tip of around 10% may be appreciated.

Payment

Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Port-au-Prince. Credit cards are not always accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's important to have cash on hand for most transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

The winter months are generally the best time to visit Port-au-Prince, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.

Spring (March to May)

Spring brings warmer temperatures and the city begins to bloom with lush greenery. It's a good time for outdoor sightseeing and cultural events.

Summer (June to August)

Summer can be hot and humid in Port-au-Prince, but it's also the time for vibrant local festivals and events. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings the peak of hurricane season to Haiti, so it can be a challenging time to visit due to the risk of severe weather. However, the countryside is lush and green after the rains.

Port-au-Prince at Night

The nightlife scene in Haiti's capital is vibrant and full of cultural richness, combining Haitian traditions with modern influences. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with music, dancing, and social gatherings. Popular nightclubs and bars are spread throughout the city, offering everything from live compas music, a genre native to Haiti, to international hits. Open-air venues and beach clubs add a tropical flair to the nighttime festivities, often featuring live bands and DJs. Local spots known for their lively ambiance include Pétion-Ville, a suburb of Port-au-Prince that is packed with a variety of restaurants, clubs, and lounges. This area tends to be buzzing with energy, attracting both locals and visitors looking for a good time. The food scene is equally enticing, with street food vendors offering delicious Haitian specialties like griot and fried plantains well into the night. Cultural centers and theaters also contribute to the nightlife landscape, hosting events such as traditional dance performances, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. For those interested in a more relaxed evening, numerous cafes and bars offer a mellow atmosphere where one can enjoy a drink and conversation. Safety can be a concern late at night, so it is advisable to stay in well-populated areas and travel in groups when exploring the city's nightlife. Despite this, the sense of community and spirited energy make the nightlife in Port-au-Prince a memorable experience, showcasing the resilience and joy of its people.

Hiking in Port-au-Prince

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pic la Selle

The highest peak in Haiti, Pic la Selle offers challenging trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike is approximately 8 hours round trip.

Bassin Bleu

A beautiful series of waterfalls and natural pools located near Jacmel, accessible by a short hike. It's a perfect spot for a refreshing swim amid lush tropical scenery.

La Visite National Park

This national park features various hiking trails through dense forests and unique wildlife. It’s a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Morne Vincent

A relatively easy hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the Port-au-Prince bay and the surrounding areas. Ideal for a short day hike.

Chaine de la Selle

Explore the natural beauty of this mountain range with multiple trails suitable for different skill levels, offering breathtaking scenery.

Aiports

How to reach Port-au-Prince by plane.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP)

The main international airport serving Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Santiago International Airport (SCU)

Located in Santiago, Chile, approximately 1,140 miles from Port-au-Prince. It serves as a significant international gateway in the region.

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Located in San José, Costa Rica, around 1,244 miles from Port-au-Prince. It is one of the busiest airports in Central America.

Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)

Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, about 744 miles from Port-au-Prince. It is a major hub for flights to and from the Caribbean.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, approximately 1,050 miles from Port-au-Prince. It is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Walkability

In the capital city of the Caribbean nation, walkability is influenced by a combination of urban infrastructure, geography, and socio-economic factors. The hilly terrain can create both challenges and opportunities for pedestrians. Many neighborhoods consist of narrow, winding roads that may be poorly maintained, making walking difficult in some areas. Additionally, the presence of informal settlements can lead to unpaved paths and limited access to amenities. Sidewalks are often inconsistent or absent altogether, forcing pedestrians to navigate alongside vehicular traffic, which can be hazardous. However, walkability is a common necessity for residents, as public transportation options may be limited, and personal vehicles are less accessible for many. Local markets, schools, and shops often promote foot traffic in more densely populated areas. Cultural factors also play a role, as community interactions frequently take place on the streets, fostering a vibrant environment for walkers despite the infrastructure challenges. Overall, while there are obstacles to walkability in this urban landscape, the resilience of the population and the cultural emphasis on community connection drive pedestrian movement throughout the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Haitian Creole speakers

The majority of the population speaks Haitian Creole as their primary language.

Youth (ages 0-14)

A significant portion of the population falls within the youth age group, indicating a young demographic.

Urban residents

The majority of the population resides in urban areas, particularly in the capital.

Adults (ages 15-64)

The adult working-age population makes up a considerable part of the demographic.

Elderly (ages 65 and above)

This demographic group is smaller compared to youth and adults, indicative of lower life expectancy.

Low-income households

A large number of residents live in low-income conditions, reflecting the socio-economic challenges in the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer, or football as it is known locally, is the most popular sport in Port-au-Prince and throughout Haiti. It is played at both professional and grassroots levels, with many local teams and vibrant fan support.

Basketball

Basketball has gained considerable popularity in Port-au-Prince, with many youth participating in school and local leagues. The sport has a growing fan base, and international competitions are followed closely.

Boxing

Boxing has a rich history in Haiti, and Port-au-Prince has produced several notable fighters. The sport is followed passionately, and local boxing events attract many spectators.

Volleyball

Volleyball is popular among both men and women in Port-au-Prince. The sport is often played on the beach and in schools, contributing to its appeal.

Track and Field

Track and field events are popular in schools and among local sports clubs in Port-au-Prince, especially during local athletic competitions and festivals.

Traffic

Traffic in the capital city is notorious for its congestion and disorder. The streets are typically bustling with a mix of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and buses, alongside pedestrians navigating the narrow roads. The lack of consistent traffic signals or regulatory enforcement often leads to chaotic driving conditions, where honking is frequent and lanes are often disregarded. Public transportation plays a significant role in the daily commute, with colorful tap-taps (shared minibuses) serving as a primary means of getting around. These vehicles stop frequently to pick up and drop off passengers, contributing to the already slowed traffic flow. Road conditions can vary widely, with some routes featuring potholes or unpaved sections, especially in less developed areas. This can further exacerbate delays and complicate travel times. During rush hours, the situation can become particularly challenging, as many residents are attempting to reach their destinations simultaneously. In certain areas, barricades or damaged infrastructure can further hinder movement, adding to the unpredictability of journey times. Despite the challenges, the vibrant street life, filled with vendors and local activities, provides a unique and lively atmosphere to the urban experience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Port-au-Prince.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While meat-based dishes are prevalent, numerous restaurants and eateries in Port-au-Prince offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with legume (vegetable stew), grilled plantains, and rice and beans being popular choices.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like rice and beans, grilled fish or chicken, and fresh fruit from local markets, and can indulge in gluten-free pastries at select cafes like La Souvenance.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the capital city is characterized by a mix of public and private facilities, with a significant gap between resources and needs. The public healthcare system is underfunded and faces challenges such as limited access, a shortage of medical supplies, and inadequate infrastructure. Many hospitals and clinics struggle to provide basic services, and rural areas often have even less access to medical care. Private healthcare services, while more reliable and generally of higher quality, can be prohibitively expensive for the average resident. As a result, many people rely on informal healthcare providers or pursue treatment abroad when possible. There is a strong presence of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that offer support and services, aiming to fill in the gaps left by the public healthcare system. In terms of healthcare outcomes, the country faces significant challenges, including high rates of infectious diseases, maternal and infant mortality, and malnutrition. There is also a need for increased focus on chronic conditions and mental health services. Overall, while there are dedicated healthcare workers and organizations striving to improve the situation, the system remains fragile and in need of comprehensive reform.

Discover Haiti

Read more in our Haiti 2024 Travel Guide.

Haiti Travel Guide