Haiti is a “paradise lost” for The New York Times, and the country presents itself as “a land with a soul.” It is not the first destination that comes to mind when talking about a Caribbean vacation, but Haiti has a hefty share of wonders for tourists of all tastes.The country was rocked by political crises and earthquakes, but its tourism sector is slowly recovering. After all, it has more than 1,000 miles of coastline and five mountain ranges waiting for sun-worshippers and adventurous hikers alike. With pristine shores, mountainous landscapes, and a bustling metropolis, Haiti is always ready to say hi.
10 The Capital Is A Cultural Hotspot
Port-au-Prince effectively introduces Haiti to travelers. Aside from its bustling cityscape, it’s a place of culture, history, and heritage. This coastal town has a charming breeze that encourages tourists to explore. For a quick history lesson, travelers can drop by the National Museum and the National Pantheon Museum. Creative souls are in for a treat as the city is home to art museums and galleries. Tourists can also peek at the ruins of the cathedral and have a shopping spree at the iconic Iron Market. Port-au-Prince is a king!
9 There Are Gingerbread Houses
It’s not the food, but Haiti is proud of its gingerbread houses. These architectural wonders can be seen in many parts of the country, but the most beautiful ones are in the capital. These structures employ Carpenter Gothic style and are known for their detailed decorative fixtures. In Port-au-Prince, sightseers can visit the still-in-use Villa Kalewès, the well-restored Maison Dufort, and Hotel Oloffson, which is surrounded by a garden. There are also gingerbread houses in Jacmel and Cap-Haitien, but wherever tourists explore, they are always welcome inside these architectural masterpieces.
8 It’s A Beach Wonderland
What else to do in a Caribbean nation? To enjoy its beaches, of course. The tropical breeze of Haiti will warm the hearts of sun-worshippers who want nothing but a blissful day. Gelée Beach is among the most popular because of its crystal-clear waters and soft sand with pastoral scenery in the background. In Jacmel, tourists can enjoy Plage Raymond-Les-Bains, which is dotted with palm trees, and Cyvadier Plage with rocky cliffs. In Jérémie, there's Anse d'Azur for those who want to explore caves and check out a sunken German U-boat. Wherever in Haiti, the beach is beautiful.
7 Its Carnival Is Marvelous
When visiting in time for the Kanaval, tourists will be welcomed by cheers, smiles, and colors. The Haitian Carnival is so vibrant it can match that of Brazil. The festivities are not limited to Port-au-Prince as the other cities also have celebrations. The carnival season starts before lent, and it has different themes every year. The event is a flood of culture, art, heritage, tradition, religion, and lifestyle that can only be experienced in Haiti. Partying has never been this good.
6 It Has A Symbolic World Heritage Site
Haiti has a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site described as a symbol of liberty. The 19th-century Sans-Souci Palace served as the residence of Henry I, a revolutionary leader who later proclaimed himself king. The palace, the citadel, and the rest of the buildings were built by slaves after their liberation. Tourists will have an enriching journey in this landmark as they learn about the Haitians’ fight for freedom. BBC described Sans-Souci Palace best as “one of the most remarkable attractions in the Western Hemisphere.”
5 There Are Natural Pools
The commune of Jacmel is home to a mountain where natural pools are tucked. The three pools were made possible by the pristine Petite Rivière de Jacmel and a waterfall. Its blue-green waters look enticing in photos, more so when tourists are out there – hugged by the lush scenery. The pools are so inviting that even those who plan not to swim will take a dip anyway because they won’t want to miss playing with its waters. There are no blues in Bassin Bleu.
4 There’s A Massive Cave
Marie Jeanne Cave is the largest in Haiti, and it has 36 known chambers, with three areas open for tourists. Travelers will explore four kilometers below the surface, checking out galleries, rock formations, and critters of the cave. One of the areas is completely dark, and a guide will lead spelunkers with a torch – like Indiana Jones. A regular tour will take three hours, but explorers will leave with endless memories. For expert spelunkers, the deeper passages of Marie Jeanne Cave are enticing.
3 Voodoo Ceremonies
Voodoo is still thriving in Haiti, and tourists who want to learn more about this spiritual system and experience its traditions are in for a treat. Travelers can attend ceremonies, dances, or rituals as a way to fight the stigma against voodoo. Tourists, especially first-timers, are recommended to attend a Rada dance. They can also visit a temple, see skulls and human remains, participate in an offering ritual, observe a possession trance, listen to the drums, and just be one with the wonders of voodoo.
2 Lush National Parks
Wildlife watchers, birders, amateur botanists, and other nature lovers will enjoy exploring the mountainous areas of Haiti. La Visite National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise, while Pic Macaya has the country’s last primary forest. Wildlife watchers will enjoy exploring Grande Colline as all its species are yet to be discovered, while botany lovers can check out rare trees in the isolated Grand Bois. Divers, meanwhile, can head to the Three Bays Protected Area to be in the presence of Haiti’s underwater wonders.
1 Haitian Food Is Heavenly
Whether tourists join a culinary tour or try dishes from restaurants and hawkers they encounter, they’ll have a gastronomical adventure in Haiti. Foodies will have a fun time tasting such treats as macaroni au gratin, tchaka (traditional stew), bouillon soup, and tassot (goat meat or beef), among others. During summer, tourists must not miss the chance to try Haitian fruits like guinep (Spanish lime), kowosòl (soursop), and tamarind. From appetizers to dessert, the cuisine of Haiti will leave tourists with happy tummies.