Haiti Travel Facts

The Basics

Country: Haiti

Where is it?: Caribbean, western one-third of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic

Why do people go here?: Haiti is not yet free of the problems that have plagued it in the past, which also means it is free of overwhelming amounts of tourists. The community life is active, warm and vibrant, welcoming those who do push through the Peacekeepers.

What are the main entry points?: Fly into the capital or drive over the border from the DR.

Currency used: Gourde (HTG)

Country Code: 509

Area codes for Major Cities: Port-au-Prince 1

Religion: Roman Catholic 80%, Protestant 16% (Baptist 10%, Pentecostal 4%, Adventist 1%, other 1%), none 1%, other 3% (1982) Roughly half of the population practices Voodoo

Population: 10 million

Ethnic Breakdown: Black 95%, mulatto and white 5%

Government: Presidential republic

Languages: French (official), Creole (official)

Travel Information

Major Cities: Port-au-Prince

Attractions: Voodoo, Art, Emerging Country

Accommodation: Haiti Hostels

Tourism Office locations and links: Haiti-National Office of Tourism Ave Marie-Jeanne Port-au-Prince +509-21729

Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas. Malaria risk exists throughout the year in certain forest areas. Chloroquine is recommended.

Tips for Visiting

When to go: The holy season around Lent rewards travelers with more expensive prices, but nice weather and cultural inclusion.

Specific Events/Holidays: Independence Day, 1 January (1804)

Getting Around: Bus is the best bet; avoid renting a car as the roads can be tricky. There are no timetables for bus departures, so be prepared to wait.

Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Haiti is the Haiti International Airport.

Need more information?: Check out the Haiti travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.