Things To Do
in Sainte-Suzanne
Sainte-Suzanne is a coastal town in the northern region of Haiti, near Cap-Haïtien, known for its friendly community and waterfront scenery. The town blends colorful Creole life with nearby agricultural countryside and Atlantic beaches. Visitors can expect warm hospitality, vibrant markets, and opportunities to explore northern Haitian culture.
The area serves as a gateway to nearby beaches, hills, and historic sites in the Cap-Haïtien area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by visiting the historic Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about its significance in Haiti's history through guided tours. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as you take in the morning sun.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the nearby town of Milot. Explore local markets and sample authentic Haitian cuisine at a family-owned restaurant, treating your taste buds to traditional flavors. Consider a short hike to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing experience.
As the sun sets, return to Sainte-Suzanne to enjoy a meal in a cozy local eatery, where you can reflect on your day's adventures. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, interacting with friendly locals and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. End your night by gazing at the stars, appreciating the tranquil surroundings.
Start your morning by visiting the local art galleries where you can admire and purchase pieces created by talented Haitian artists. Participate in a morning craft workshop to learn traditional techniques such as painting or weaving. Engage with artists and gain insights into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture.
After enjoying a creative morning, head to the village center for lunch at a popular street vendor. Indulge in local favorites like griot or pikliz while mingling with residents. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the village to witness day-to-day life in Sainte-Suzanne and learn about its historical significance.
As evening falls, find a local gathering to experience traditional music and dance. Join in the festivities and learn some traditional dance moves, connecting with the vibrant spirit of the community. Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Haitian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $2-6 |
| 📱Local SIM card (data plan) | $3-7 |
| 🛒Basic groceries | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming local communities
- Authentic Creole cuisine and coastal scenery
- Close to Cap-Haïtien and northern attractions
- Affordable travel experiences with frequent market life
- Infrastructure and internet access can be limiting
- Occasional safety considerations and limited English-speaking services
- Public transportation can be irregular and crowded
- Hurricane season requires preparedness
- "Bonjou" - Hello
- "Bonswa" - Good evening
- "Mèsi" - Thank you
- "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
- "Kote li ye?" - Where is it?
- "Konbyen sa ye?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Sainte-Suzanne
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant façades and daily life provide opportunities for candid and architectural photography.
Early light over fishing boats and calm water makes for serene seascapes.
Hilly edges offer sweeping ocean vistas and dramatic horizons.
Shaded alleys, produce stalls, and textiles create colorful, authentic backdrops.
Food in Sainte-Suzanne
Sainte-Suzanne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried pork served with seasoned rice and spicy pickled slaw, a quintessential Creole combination.
Must-Try!
Black beans or red beans stewed with rice, often flavored with annatto oil and herbs.
Fragrant rice cooked with dried black mushrooms (djon-djon) giving a distinctive dark hue and earthy flavor.
Seafood dish featuring conch cooked in a flavorful Creole sauce, common near coastal towns.
Smoked or grilled chicken seasoned with herbs, commonly found at neighborhood grills.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large market with fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, fish, and street bites; a great place to observe daily life and sample snacks.
Beachfront and roadside spots offering grilled pikliz-topped meats, fried plantains, and fresh coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or cheek kiss among friends; greet shopkeepers and drivers politely. Use respectful titles and address elders with courtesy.
Dress modestly in town and at religious sites; light, breathable clothing is ideal in hot weather.
Respect personal space; physical contact is common among friends, but public displays of affection are more muted.
Safety
Tipping in Sainte-Suzanne
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of about 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. For hotel staff and guides, a few dollars per day or per service is common.
Cash (USD and Haitian gourdes) is widely accepted; some larger establishments may take mobile money or cards, but cash is safest in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with frequent tropical showers. Pools and beaches are popular, but afternoon storms can occur. Sun protection and hydration are essential.
Pleasantly warm days with cooler evenings. Lower humidity and clearer skies make for comfortable sightseeing and photography.
Sainte-Suzanne at Night
Hiking in Sainte-Suzanne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge trail offering panoramic views of the coast and villages; moderate difficulty and rewarding scenery.
A forested, rolling landscape with small streams and viewpoints overlooking the sea; ideal for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Sainte-Suzanne by plane.
Primary regional airport serving the Cap-Haïtien area with domestic and limited international connections; access to Sainte-Suzanne is via road transfer.
Main international hub of Haiti; longer transfer to the north but useful for regional connections and flights from abroad.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A young population with strong family and community ties; many residents participate in local markets and cultural events.
Many residents have ties to Haitian communities abroad, influencing music, food, and crafts available locally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, enjoyed casually in streets and organized leagues.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games often occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sainte-Suzanne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy plantain dishes, beans, rice with vegetables, soups made with corn or vegetables, and fruit-based desserts. Ask for sauces and broths to be prepared without meat stock and look for grilled vegetable options or legumes.