Haiti: 17 Superb Tourist Destinations that You Have to See

The Republic of Haiti is a Caribbean country with a reputation for natural disasters and great poverty. However, these past few years, things have ultimately been altered. Today, Haiti is one of the most visited countries and rich in culture and history. 

Like most Caribbean neighbour countries, Haiti is famous for its splendid beaches. It’s one of the best places to spend an unforgettable vacation. Besides the great beaches, Haiti also offers a wide array of natural landscapes. They make for a great Instagram post.

The abundance of mountains is another feature that makes Haiti stand out among other Caribbean countries. It has the most mountainous ranges, which are tremendously gorgeous. The blend of mountains and waters provides a breathtaking view you can hardly take your eyes off.

Delicious cuisine is scattered all over the island, offering diverse tropical flavours. Since several countries have shaped Haiti’s culture, a vast palette of dishes is provided. You won’t be left with any moments of boredom, but only serenity, peacefulness, and fun. Here are some of Haiti’s best places to visit for an ultimate experience.

Jump into the Bassin Bleu Waters

This natural wonder, the Bassin Bleu, will not be missed during your trip to Haiti. Situated west of Jacmel, it is a series of four pools of cobalt-blue waters that link to huge waterfalls. You must hike through some untouched beauty of greenery to reach the falls. 

The cascading waterfalls get louder as you delve deeper into the forest, with the Cheval being the first basin. The Bassin Clair is the largest and the most impressive. If you’re looking for some great adventure, join the adventurous souls who like to plunge into the pools. 

Spend the Day at Labadee

Labadee is a thrilling island with warm Caribbean waters embracing its shores from all corners. It’s a great attraction for those looking to enjoy tranquillity in a quietly peaceful resort. Its location on a coastal peninsula makes it a perfect spot for magnificent beaches and fun water sports and activities. 

See Haiti’s Last Primary Forest at Macaya National Park

Given forests’ great importance and how they protect the planet, many countries manage to preserve their natural sanctuaries. The Macaya National Park is Haiti’s last primary forest, encompassing rare flora and wildlife species. You can access this park by reaching the south-western part of the country.

This natural forest is a significant source of freshwater; tremendous rainfall supplies the country’s major rivers. Macaya National Park is also home to some extinct species found nowhere else, including Mozart’s frog. It also embraces a wide array of different bird and amphibian species.

Take a Boat Trip to Kokoye Beach

Since Haiti is famous for its unprecedented beaches, spending some time in its pristine waters only makes sense. Kokoye Beach is one of the most significant beaches in the country, lying in the southernmost part. Many tourists take a boat trip in the blue waters to reach Kokoye Beach.

Your trip starts at Marina Blue, where you get on the boat and prepare for an aqua trip. It takes around an hour or so before your boat settles near the beach. At that point, you can start having fun by either swimming or snorkelling. Relaxing is also a great option since you’ll be surrounded by calming waters while enjoying fresh coconuts.

Hike Above Port-au-Prince on La Selle Mountain

When visiting a country for the first time, it’s hard to miss the capital city. Port-au-Prince is the capital of Haiti and a cultural and historical centre. There are many things to do around the city, but hiking from a high point to observe the country’s scenic landscapes is unbeatable. 

La Selle Mountain is an unmissable destination and the highest peak in the country. It’s part of a magnificent mountainous range, the Chaîne de la Selle. Excellent trails are furnished to pave your way to the high mountains. You’ll keep yourself energetic while witnessing amazing sceneries with the cool breeze brushing against your face.

Get on Top of Mount Boutillier

Another high peak that you shouldn’t miss in Port-au-Prince is Mount Boutillier. It’s been popular among tourists and first-time visitors as an excellent spot to have an overview of the capital city of Haiti. A restaurant and bar are also filling the region right now, so you can enjoy a delicious meal before hiking to the city.

Chill on Amiga Island

Haiti has vast, pristine waters, allowing many chilling and stress-releasing spots. However, Amiga Island, a private island off the Labadee coast, is an unbeatable destination. 

The island has spacious green landscapes that please the eye and induce relaxation. Snorkelling is one of the most popular activities on the island. However, there are also adventurous activities for adrenaline-pumping lovers, including several water sports.

Have Fun on Gelée Beach

Gelée Beach is another excellent water adventure destination in Haiti. This beach is in southern Haiti, near Les Cayes. It’s so popular that it’s a highlighted destination that’s never empty of tourists thanks to its white sand and warm Azur water. 

Besides, the scenes this beach provides create feelings of relaxation and serenity. You can’t help but ridiculously smile at the coconut palms scattered over the sandy land. Tremendous mountainous ranges design a backdrop you can quickly see from a distance. Besides, several shacks are available to offer a wide array of flavorful food to savour while on the beach.

Learn History at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (National Museum of Haiti)

This magnificent museum is here to debunk a long-standing myth. Many people worldwide mistakenly believe Haiti is just an island with abundant beaches and coconut trees to feed on. However, the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon, commonly known as the National Museum of Haiti, proves otherwise.

You must enter this museum to understand the truth behind this country’s development. It preserves a significant portion of Haitian heritage and magnificent history. Many artefacts depict the country’s long history. It costs you a minimal fee to go way back into the past, before the pre-Columbian period, and see what many people have been missing.

Dip in the Cold Waters of Saut-Mathurine Waterfalls

Waterfalls are spectacular natural wonders that everyone can’t help but fall in love with. Haiti has its charming waterfalls, the Saut-Mathurine Waterfalls. Not only is it lovely, but it’s also the biggest waterfall in Haiti.

Besides the wondrous cascading waters, exotic plants and flora surround the waterfalls. The blend of greenery and blue waters offers a unique scene that leaves the beholder spellbound. Many visitors enjoy dipping into the cold waters for some refreshment. Others are more daring and like to take a plunge from the top. Either way, you’ll enjoy the relaxing sounds of nature.

Tour the Barbancourt Rum Distillery

Most Caribbean countries are famous for producing the world’s best rum, and Haiti is no exception. Thanks to its history of the sugar cane industry, many regions have been dedicated to rum production ever since. The Barbancourt Rum Distillery is one of Haiti’s most famous and oldest rum factories.

Tours are made to the factories where everything began. It’s a family business that goes way back to 1862. This is an excellent experience for rum lovers. Throughout the tour, you will learn about the process and sip some fine rum.

Go Ziplining at the Dragon’s Breath

This one is for genuine, adventurous souls who won’t settle unless their bodies pump with adrenaline. The water zip line is a great activity that many people enjoy in partaking, but it’s a different story in Haiti. The Dragon’s Breath is the longest zip line in the world, allowing you to soak in the magnificent ocean scenes while the wind caresses your face.

Visit Wynne Farm Ecological Reserve

Nature reserves are great places to observe some of nature’s workings that haven’t been spoiled by civilized life. Haiti is home to Wynne Farm Ecological Reserve. It’s a natural park that protects the primary water source that courses through the mountains of Kenscoff. This tremendous park is home to some exotic flora and fauna. Spacious scenes of greenery and waters fill your vision, letting you leave the place with significant serenity within.

Hike to La Visite National Park

Looking for somewhere interesting to hike? La Visite National Park is one of the largest parks in the Republic of Haiti. No matter your fitness level, you can trek through the national park and observe its unprecedented beauty. Lush landscapes stretch over the lands, offering diverse plant species. 

Travel Back in Time at Citadelle Laferrière

Citadelle Laferrière is one of the largest fortresses, dating back to the early 19th century. It’s one of the magnificent buildings in Haiti that will take you on a journey back to the past. People usually refer to it as simply the Citadelle; sometimes, it’s called Citadelle Henri Christophe.

The Citadel is one of the most popular destinations in Haiti. It sits high on the top of the mountains, offering picturesque landscapes. History resides within every wall of the citadel; you can sense the breeze of the past while walking through. This fortress has been the national defence of the country for years upon years.

Visit the Sans-Souci Park

Sans Souci is a French phrase that means “without worries” or “Carefree.” That was the purpose of building this national park, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can spend a whole day exploring the area’s vast gardens and historic structures.

Explore the Jardin Botanique des Cayes (Cayes Botanical Garden)

Botanical Gardens are tremendous destinations, and Haiti suffers no shortage of gardens. The Cayes Botanical Garden was established in 2003 by William Cinea. It lies close to Haiti’s most important national parks, Macaya National Park and La Visite National Park. This destination is perfect for nature lovers who long for some tranquil time. You’ll also enjoy the exotic flora and fauna species.

Haiti is more than just a long list of magnificent beaches. While the beaches there offer unbeatable scenes, there’s much more than that. History plays a significant role in shaping this incredible island; it’s a great idea to take yourself somewhere where you can dig deeper into it. No matter what kind of person you are, Haiti always has something for you.