Best things to do in Haiti

Visit a mountaintop fortress that brims with cultural and historical significance when you hike up to Citadelle Laferrière. Originally built after the nation's independence from the French, the fortress served as a defense against potential French incursions into Haiti. Prepare for a hike to reach the fortress, as it sits atop a mountain. Once inside, you can tour the massive structure big enough to garrison 5,000 soldiers and 365 cannons. From the top of the fortress, you are greeted with views of the mountains and forests surrounding you.

Discover more about Haiti's heritage with a visit to Musee du Pantheon National Haitien, a national museum focusing on the heroes of independence and culture. View several items of national importance, including the gun that King Christophe--a key leader in the Haitian Revolution--used to commit suicide, as well as the bell rung to declare the arrival of independence. The museum also houses sections on the native Taino people, Spanish colonization, and slavery. Consider taking an expert guided tour, available in French, Creole, or English.

Immerse yourself in tranquility as you jump from waterfalls and swim in cooling basins at Bassin Bleu. The rock face surrounding the waterfall features patches of lush green vegetation, providing much-needed shade during your visit, and a delightful contrast with the rich turquoise water in the basin. Make sure you book your visit in advance, as only a limited number of visitors can come per day in order to keep the attraction unspoiled. Pack your own food and drinks to enjoy a picnic in tranquil surroundings.

Visit the socially conscious Papillon Enterprise, a worthwhile business based on the idea of creating jobs for the community by exporting and selling Haitian artisan products and, by doing so, limiting the amount of children ending up in orphanages. All products for sale are hand-crafted and up-cycled, making them perfect souvenirs and gifts, with the added bonus of benefiting the community. The boutique also showcases local artworks. The attached cafe offers free wifi, and serves smoothies and snacks.

Take a stroll along Jacmel Beach, a sandy bay offering a walkway, public art, and a chance to mingle with locals. Check out the mosaic wall murals on the boardwalk, created by a foundation for children. Have a meal at one of the nearby restaurants serving up fresh fish and lobster. An excellent place for a photo of the coastline, the landscape here remains unimpeded thanks to the lack of large crowds. Even though it is a safe place to swim, visitors generally come for a bit of leisure and a nice view. Some have reported trash on the shore, so temper expectations.

Head to Marche de Fer for an authentic Haiti flee market experience. The market continues to sell similar food and clothing as it did 150 years ago, keeping its authentic feel. It teems with vendors who will try to grab your attention and make a sale with you. Find fruits, vegetables, t-shirts, and shoes among other everyday goods. Bring a strong bargaining game as bartering is required to get a good deal. A local guide may be useful to steer you towards the best vendors.

Journey up to the stunning fortified citadel of National History Park - Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers, a World Heritage Site since 1982 perched on the top of a Haitian hill. The hike is strenuous, but you can hire a mule to carry you to the top. Once there, you have a chance to observe the building's unbelievable architecture, built directly onto the hill's rock by slaves in just three years. You won't find handrails at the top and there are occasional exposed drops, so assert caution whilst viewing the ruins. A guide is recommended to appreciate the history here, and make sure you bring plenty of water and decent shoes.