Things to Do in Port-au-Prince

About Port-au-Prince

Where the Caribbean Sea meets the dramatic slopes of Morne l'Hôpital, Port-au-Prince pulses with an energy found nowhere else—a city where resilient creativity and cultural richness emerge from every neighborhood corner. This is the beating heart of Ayiti, a place where iron market vendors, contemporary artists, and tap-tap drivers alike embody a spirit that has shaped Caribbean history and continues to redefine it. Port-au-Prince doesn't simply invite observation; it demands participation in a story still being written.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: Bring US dollars, which are widely accepted alongside the Gourde (Haiti's official currency), and exchange money at official banks or your hotel rather than street vendors, as dual pricing often quotes in both currencies interchangeably.

• Transportation: Hire a trusted local driver or arrange transportation through your hotel rather than using tap-taps (shared pickup trucks) or random taxis, as navigating the city's unmarked streets and current security situation requires local knowledge and established connections.

• Language Preparation: Learn basic Haitian Creole phrases beyond French, as Creole is the primary language spoken by most Port-au-Prince residents, and this effort will be greatly appreciated and help you navigate markets, restaurants, and daily interactions.

• Timing Your Activities: Plan important activities and movements during daylight hours (before 5-6 PM), and always inform your hotel or local contact of your whereabouts, as the security situation can be unpredictable and varies significantly by neighborhood.

When to Visit

When to Visit Port-au-Prince, Haiti

The optimal time to visit Port-au-Prince is during the dry season from November through March, when temperatures hover between 25-30°C (77-86°F) with minimal rainfall and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the Marché en Fer (Iron Market) and the historic district without oppressive heat. February is particularly vibrant as it coincides with Carnival (usually late February or early March), Haiti's most spectacular celebration featuring elaborate costumes, rara bands, and street parties, though accommodations become scarce and prices triple during this period. Budget travelers should consider May or October—the shoulder months flanking the rainy season—when hotel rates drop by 30-40% and brief afternoon showers (rather than sustained downpours) keep temperatures manageable around 28-32°C (82-90°F). Avoid June through September when the Caribbean hurricane season peaks, bringing not only storm risks but oppressive 90% humidity levels and intense heat exceeding 35°C (95°F) that can make outdoor activities exhausting, while many cultural sites reduce their hours due to lower visitor numbers. January 1st holds special significance as both New Year's Day and Independence Day, featuring ceremonies at the Place du Champ de Mars and patriotic celebrations throughout the city, making it an excellent time for culturally-minded visitors who book well in advance.