My Haiti Trip: Culture, History & Caribbean Soul

Haiti is not just a destination — it’s a feeling. Raw, resilient, vibrant, and deeply rooted in history, my trip to Haiti completely shifted my perspective. From majestic fortresses and sacred historical sites to untouched beaches and lively nights filled with music, Haiti offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

If you’re looking for culture, adventure, and authenticity, here’s how to experience Haiti the right way.

Where to Stay in Haiti

Choosing the right hotel makes all the difference. Haiti offers a mix of comfort, eco-friendly stays, and beachfront relaxation.

Satama Hotel

Perfect for travelers who want modern comfort with easy access to city life. Satama Hotel offers clean, spacious rooms, reliable amenities, and a calm atmosphere — ideal after long days of exploring. It’s a great base if you plan on doing city and cultural tours.

Ready to stay in comfort? Book your stay at Satama Hotel here

Cormier Resort

Located along the coast near Cap-Haïtien, Cormier Resort is a tropical escape. Think ocean views, palm trees, and peaceful vibes. This is the spot if you want to relax, unwind, and enjoy Haiti’s natural beauty while still being close to major attractions like the Citadelle.

Wake up to ocean views — book your stay at Cormier Resort here

Retrouvailles Hotel

A charming boutique-style hotel that blends local warmth with comfort. Retrouvailles feels personal and authentic — perfect if you want a more intimate stay and genuine Haitian hospitality.

Ekolojik Hotel

For eco-conscious travelers, Ekolojik Hotel is a hidden gem. Surrounded by nature, this hotel focuses on sustainability while offering a serene environment. It’s ideal if you want to disconnect, slow down, and enjoy Haiti’s natural rhythm.

Surrounded by nature and calm — book your stay at Ekolojik Hotel here

Top Things to Do in Haiti

🏛️ Historical Tour: Citadelle Laferrière & Sans-Souci Palace

This is non-negotiable. The Citadelle Laferrière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most impressive fortresses in the world. Built after Haiti gained independence, it symbolizes freedom, strength, and resilience.

Nearby, the ruins of Sans-Souci Palace tell the story of Haiti’s royal past. Walking through these sites is emotional, powerful, and deeply educational — a must for anyone wanting to understand Haiti’s soul.

Explore Citadelle Laferrière & Sans-Souci Palace here

🏙️ City Tour: Vertières & Bois Caïman

Vertières is where Haiti defeated Napoleon’s army — the final battle that secured independence. Standing there gives you chills.

Bois Caïman is one of the most sacred sites in Haitian history, where the revolution was spiritually ignited. This place holds deep cultural and ancestral significance.

These tours offer context, pride, and a deeper appreciation of Haiti’s global impact.

🏝️ Private Trip to Labadee (Aliya Island & Cadras)

If you’re craving Caribbean paradise, this is it. A private trip to Labadee, including Aliya Island and Cadras, delivers crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and total relaxation. It feels exclusive, untouched, and perfect for content, swimming, or just soaking in the beauty.

🚣 Kayaking in Fort Liberté

Fort Liberté is calm, scenic, and peaceful — ideal for kayaking. Gliding through the water with mountain and coastal views around you is both relaxing and refreshing. This experience shows a softer, quieter side of Haiti.

 

🌙 Nightlife: Live Music, Restaurants & Events

Haiti comes alive at night. From restaurants with live Haitian music to cultural events and local gatherings, the nightlife is vibrant and soulful. Expect compas music, dancing, great food, and an electric atmosphere that makes you feel part of the culture.

Cap Deli

A must-visit nightlife spot in Cap-Haïtien. Cap Deli is known for its vibrant atmosphere, great food, and energetic crowd. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike, often featuring music, events, and a lively late-night vibe — perfect for ending your day on a high note.

Practical Tips for Traveling in Haiti

🚗 Getting Around

• Hiring a local driver or guide is highly recommended.

• For longer distances or remote areas, private transportation is safest and most convenient.

• Always plan routes ahead and travel during daylight when possible.

💰 Currency

• Haiti uses the Gourde, but US dollars are widely accepted.

• Carry small bills — change can be limited.

• Credit cards work in some hotels and restaurants, but cash is essential.

🎒 Packing Essentials

• Lightweight clothing (it’s warm year-round)

• Comfortable walking shoes (for historical sites and uneven terrain)

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

• Bug spray

• Power bank

• Copies of important documents

• Respectful clothing for cultural and historical sites

Final Thoughts

Haiti is not a “typical” vacation — it’s a transformational journey. It challenges you, inspires you, and rewards you with unforgettable experiences, deep history, and genuine human connection.

If you travel with an open heart and mind, Haiti will show you beauty beyond beaches — a story of strength, pride, and culture that deserves to be seen and respected.

Travel to Haiti: Is It Possible & Is It Safe?

Many people ask the same question before visiting Haiti:

“Can you actually travel there right now?”

The answer is yes — safely — if you travel to the right place and with the right planning.

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Flying to Haiti Is Easy

You can fly daily from the United States to Cap-Haïtien, Haiti with Sunrise Airways.

• ✈️ Direct flights from Miami (MIA)
• ✈️ Direct flights from Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• 🛬 Arrival airport: Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP)

These routes are active and regularly used by travelers, locals, and members of the Haitian diaspora.

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Why Cap-Haïtien Is the Best Place to Visit Right Now

Cap-Haïtien is:

• 🇭🇹 The second-largest city in Haiti
• 🛡️ One of the safest cities in the country
• 🌴 A major hub for beaches, history, culture, and nature

While much of the negative news focuses on one specific area (Port-au-Prince), Haiti is not one city.

Cap-Haïtien is located in the north and remains calm, welcoming, and open to visitors.

This is why Cap-Haïtien is the best place to travel in Haiti at this time — especially for first-time visitors.

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Travel With a Local Guide (Highly Recommended)

For peace of mind, local knowledge, and smooth logistics, traveling with a trusted local guide makes a huge difference.

I personally traveled with Safe Trips Haiti, a professional local travel company that specializes in:

• Airport pickups
• Secure transportation
• Guided tours
• Local experiences
• Hotels, beaches, and historic sites

👉 Safe Trips Haiti
🌐 https://safetripshaiti.com

Be sure to check out my YouTube channel and explore more of my travel adventures for tips and inspiration to make the most of your journey!